“Learn to Train” and Mini-Hockey for Athlete Development

Learn To Train

“Learn to Train” is the first of three stages of Field Hockey BC’s commitment to comprehensive direct programming, a precursor to “Train to Train” and “Train to Compete”. With a focus on introducing young athletes, ages 10 through 13, to Field Hockey at the community club level, “Learn to Train” develops athletes’ skills with coaching in a controlled environment.

Nine skills matrix pillars are used to develop the athlete, including: technical, tactical, mental fitness, physiological, emotional/social, and life skills, pedagogy (teaching and coaching), physical literacy, and coach education/mentorship. Sessions specific to each of these skills matrix pillars are led by qualified coaches.

Mini Hockey

Within the Learn to Train programming, Mini Hockey has been used to teach the art of playing hockey.  Simply a smaller version of the bigger game, mini hockey develops game skills and intelligence through modified game situations. During these 2 on 1, 3 on 2, 3 on 3 and 4 on 4 game situations, young athletes learn specific technical skills such as passing, tackling and scoring, as well as tactical principles and decision making abilities.

How Does Mini Hockey Help?
Mini hockey facilitates more touches on the ball, both due to the lesser number of people playing at once, as well as the smaller field used. It creates plenty of opportunity for passing and receiving the ball, as well as creating tight game situations where players are forced to think under pressure to maintain possession. When translated onto the larger field the sense of more time and playing space are felt, and young players are able to perform skills effectively.

Field Hockey BC offers a Regional “Learn to Train” development program. For the 2015 season, eligibility is for young athletes born between 2002 and 2005. Information for this particular development program will be posted in early 2015 on the FHBC website.