So You Want to Play Competitive :: Dryland Scheduled!

Competitive teams, (AKA Travel Team) at the Bantam level require more commitment and focus than rec league. It is my observation that as players get older, especially fourteen years and up, the skill levels on the teams condenses. The range is not so wide as one might find on a Squirt or PeeWee team. Getting a late start to the hockey party doesn’t mean you don’t have a good chance. With focus and a plan most players can aspire to and succeed at competitive play.

Through my participation with Jondon Trevina’s Power Skating I became aware that at some time or another I see the A and AA players in attendance. Craig Smoot is a Fort Collins Dad with three boys in competitive play. To help finance that adventure he offers dryland training programs that are limited to motivated, focused players. While most of the participants are competitive level players some are just regular hockey kids looking for that extra boost. I have seen first hand the difference a three week program can make, it is impressive.

Coach Flash’s recommendation for players looking to make the most of their hockey experience:
1.) Make it to every practice and focus on hockey skills and game knowledge
2.) Participate in Power Skating
3.) Arrange to commit to a dryland training program
4.) Find every excuse to get on the ice and have some fun
5.) Sign up of at least one hockey camp (with a buddy if you can)

Some parents/players have expressed interest in off ice training. My experience at the rec level with this is most parents won’t want/be able to get their kids to the EPIC for weekly sessions. Therefore the other coaches and I agreed to provide some introductory dryland fun on a once or twice a month basis based upon participation. This Thursday will be a first exploration of off-ice interest.

I’d love to chat more about it so grab me after a game, dryland or practice.

–Flash