Ty Kolle Hockey Development

Power skating is a specialized form of skating instruction that focuses on improving a hockey player's speed, agility, edge work and overall skating ability. It is designed to help players develop the techniques and skills necessary to succeed in the game of hockey.

A power skating session might include a combination of the following elements:

• Edge work: Focus on developing and maintaining strong edges to improve speed and agility.
• Stride development: Emphasis on proper stride technique, including extension, recovery, and glide.
• Crossovers: Practice of forward and backward crossovers techniques
• Turns: Work on different methods of turning to improve control and speed.
• Stops: Practice of various stopping techniques, including forward and backward stops.
• Agility drills: High-intensity drills designed to simulate game situations and improve reaction time and speed.
• Speed development: Sprints and other exercises to improve acceleration and top-end speed.

Puck handling refers to a player's ability to control and manipulate the puck using their stick.

This includes:

• Stickhandling: Using the stick to control the puck in various situations, such as in tight spaces or at high speeds.
• Deception: Faking out opponents by making them believe one movement then executing a different move. 
• Protecting the puck: Shielding the puck from opponents to maintain possession.

Shooting, teaching and utilizing the different methods of shooting and when to use them. Showing the fundamentals of proper shooting techniques and body mechanics.

This includes but isn't limited to:

• Snap shot: A fast, powerful shot using the legs, core, and stick.
• Slap shot: A powerful shot using a wider grip, momentum, weight transfer, legs and core.
• Backhand shot: A shot taken with the back of the blade requiring appropriate weight transfer and follow through to maximize power.

Effective puck handling and shooting require a combination of strength, speed, agility, and hand-eye coordination. Players must also develop the ability to read the game and make quick decisions to create scoring opportunities.

Small area games 

The goal of these games is to increase the intensity and pace of play, while also focusing on specific skills or situations. Also used to mimic game-like stress situations.

Key characteristics:

• Reduced playing area: The playing area is smaller than a full-sized hockey rink, often using zones or sections of the ice.
• Fewer players: Typically involve 3v3, 4v4, or 5v5 players.
• Focus on specific skills: Designed to work on specific skills or situations, such as:
  • Puck control and possession
  • Passing and receiving
  • Shooting and scoring
  • Defensive coverage and positioning
  • Breakouts and transitions
• Game-like scenarios: Simulate game situations, such as:
  • 2-on-1 or 3-on-2 rushes
  • Power plays or penalty kills
  • Neutral zone play
  • Battles for puck possession
• Rotating players: Players often rotate in and out of the game every 30-60 seconds, allowing for maximum participation and rest.

Small area games are an effective way to improve hockey players' skills, speed, and decision-making, while also increasing their overall fitness and competitiveness.