Vol II of Trials and tribulations of a minor hockey coach (house league version)

[Cams 7]

Well, see my old thread regarding my disastrous introduction into being the "head coach" for the first time at the following link:http://www.modsquadhockey.com/forums/index.php/topic/62484-trials-and-tribulations-of-a-rookie-minor-hockey-coach/

My second season at the helm started last weekend with 2 practices. I can guarantee now (not that I will though ;) ) my team will have a much better season that last. Coaching Bantam again (1999 and 2000 birth year).

First off, the league made a couple changes in picking the teams - Ratings were done on players by coaches in the stands, as other coaches ran the kids through drills. Secondly, instead of us coaches drafting our players, this was done by the convenor and house league VP. We were allowed to "protect" 2 players - my daughter and my other coaches son. This prevents teams from stacking their roster by recruiting parents to be "on the coaching staff" in name only, so that they got the kid they wanted (This happened last year and the team won it all - surprise, surprise).

I am very happy with the team I was handed - all good skaters (we could be best skating team in league), no real weak skaters, a very good goalie, and overall a good mix.

I want to use this thread for any comments, etc., plus to kind of track my season as it goes too. :)

After the first 2 practices I find I am much better prepared and know what to expect this season, where as last year, I will admit that my staff and I sometimes went into a practice un-prepared.

We have one more practice on Saturday, and play our first of 5 exhibition games on Sunday. I will tinker with combos, and positions and mix it up a lot before I roll with my regular positions, etc for the regular season.

[MarsB 33]

I remember enjoying checking in on your old thread; looking forward to seeing how this season progresses for you and your team. Good luck!

[coryroth24 15]

I miss coaching that age. Old enough to understand what you're trying to do with them yet young enough to not be complete egomaniacs (exceptions apply...). I recently dropped down to running our girls development program since my wife and I popped out our own little hockey player last week. Less travel and less stress! Good luck to you!

[MyBoxersSayJoe 133]

The first season's always the roughest. You start to get a flow down and have an easier time assessing what the team needs to work on after you've run through it a few times. Good luck!

I recently dropped down to running our girls development program since my wife and I popped out our own little hockey player last week.

Congratulations!