A financial executive based in New York City, Norman “Norm” Gretzinger serves as managing director of EG Capital, a private equity firm he co-founded in 2003. Outside of his professional activities, Norm Gretzinger enjoys coaching youth hockey teams in the Bronxville Youth Hockey Association.
When it comes to youth hockey coaching, new coaches often adopt the approach they experienced during their most recent playing days. However, the needs of young hockey players differ considerably from more mature players. Here are three tips for first-time youth hockey coaches.
Keep the talk to a minimum: Young players benefit most from spending time on the ice and practicing their skills. Instead of holding extended talks about plays, give a brief explanation and allow players to make mistakes and ask questions.
Keep it simple: Experienced hockey players are expected to remember a host of different plays, but many young players simply cannot handle this quantity of information yet. Focus on the positional basics of hockey and, if your players are ready, throw in a play or two.
Stay calm: When coaches scream at their players constantly, it causes anxiety and confusion and actually prevents players from performing well. Considering that players can barely process loud instructions in the heat of a match, focus instead on preparing your team well during practice hours and keep on-ice instruction to a minimum.
When it comes to youth hockey coaching, new coaches often adopt the approach they experienced during their most recent playing days. However, the needs of young hockey players differ considerably from more mature players. Here are three tips for first-time youth hockey coaches.
Keep the talk to a minimum: Young players benefit most from spending time on the ice and practicing their skills. Instead of holding extended talks about plays, give a brief explanation and allow players to make mistakes and ask questions.
Keep it simple: Experienced hockey players are expected to remember a host of different plays, but many young players simply cannot handle this quantity of information yet. Focus on the positional basics of hockey and, if your players are ready, throw in a play or two.
Stay calm: When coaches scream at their players constantly, it causes anxiety and confusion and actually prevents players from performing well. Considering that players can barely process loud instructions in the heat of a match, focus instead on preparing your team well during practice hours and keep on-ice instruction to a minimum.