I. Work Ethic

A. Importance of Hard Work in Practice

  • Players who consistently put in the effort during practice sessions showcase a strong work ethic.

  • Their commitment to improving skills and techniques outside of games sets them apart.

  • Coaches value players who understand the correlation between hard work in practice and success in games.

B. Taking Drills Seriously

  • Paying attention to detail and executing drills with precision demonstrates an attention to improving.

  • Players who treat drills as a chance to hone their skills impress coaches.

  • Attitude towards drills can reflect a player's dedication to self-improvement.

C. Never Taking a Rep Off

  • Consistency in effort, even during repetitive drills, shows a player's commitment to excellence.

  • Coaches notice players who give their all in every repetition, recognizing the importance of practice.

  • The ability to maintain focus and intensity throughout the training session is highly valued by coaches.

II. Character

A. Being a Good Teammate

  • Players who support and encourage their teammates contribute positively to team dynamics.

  • Demonstrating sportsmanship, empathy, and camaraderie helps build a strong team bond.

  • Coaches appreciate players who prioritize team success over individual achievements.

B. Earning Respect in the Locker Room

  • Respecting teammates, coaches, and support staff builds a favorable reputation.

  • Players who exhibit integrity, honesty, and humility earn the respect of their peers.

  • The way a player conducts themselves off the ice can influence their standing within the team.

C. Leadership Qualities

  • Showing initiative, motivating others, and leading by example make players stand out as potential leaders.

  • Coaches value players who can inspire their teammates and help maintain a positive team culture.

  • Developing leadership skills on and off the ice can enhance a player's overall impact within the team.

III. Coachability

A. Ability to Understand and Execute Systems

  • Players who grasp and apply strategic systems effectively demonstrate coachability.

  • Being able to adapt to different game plans and tactics showcases a player's willingness to learn.

  • Coaches look for athletes who can quickly understand and execute instructions during games.

B. Having a Positive Attitude Towards Learning

  • Embracing new challenges, techniques, and feedback reflects a player's growth mindset.

  • Maintaining a positive attitude towards improvement shows maturity and coachability.

  • Players who actively seek opportunities to develop their skills impress coaches with their dedication.

C. Being Open to Feedback and Improvement

  • Receiving criticism constructively and working on weaknesses indicate a player's coachability.

  • Players who listen attentively, ask questions, and implement feedback showcase a desire to improve.

  • Coaches appreciate athletes who continuously strive to enhance their performance and skills.

IV. Winning Mentality

A. Being a Part of Winning Teams

  • Experience in successful teams can shape a player's competitive mindset and expectations.

  • Learning how to win gracefully and maintain focus under pressure are valuable traits coaches seek.

  • A history of achievements and victories can cultivate a player's winning mentality.

B. Hatred for Losing

  • Players who despise losing show a strong competitive spirit and drive to succeed.

  • The fear of failure and desire for victory can fuel a player's motivation and determination.

  • Coaches value athletes who channel their aversion to losing into positive actions on the ice.

C. Bringing a Winning Culture to the Team

  • Instilling a winning mindset within the team can elevate performance and team morale.

  • Players who set high standards, motivate others, and foster a competitive environment are highly regarded.

  • Coaches appreciate individuals who contribute to creating a culture of success within the team.

V. Summary

A. Recap of the Key Qualities Coaches Look for in Players

  • Work Ethic: Dedication to practice and skill improvement.

  • Character: Being a good teammate, earning respect, and displaying leadership qualities.

  • Coachability: Understanding systems, embracing learning, and implementing feedback.

  • Winning Mentality: Experience in winning teams, detesting losing, and promoting a winning culture.

FAQs

  • How can players demonstrate their work ethic to coaches?

    By consistently giving their best effort in practice, drills, and games.

  • What can players do to improve their coachability?

    By actively seeking feedback, working on weaknesses, and maintaining a positive attitude towards learning.

  • How can players develop a winning mentality on and off the ice?

    By embracing competition, setting high standards, and fostering a culture of success within the team.