The difference between good and great often comes down to how consistent you are in your effort and execution, whether it’s practice or a game. Habits formed in practice will carry over to games.

NOTE FOR COACHES: It is important to teach and model these elite habits at practice. Repeat, remind and acknowledge good habits so that they become the norm.

1. Project POSITIVE energy. Have FUN doing it!

• Enjoy the process of training and practice. Love being on the ice.
• Positive body language
• Celebrate success and MAKE SOME NOISE.

2. Be Ready and Prepared

• Be ready to go and warmed up BEFORE the ice is ready.
• Check your equipment BEFORE going to the rink. Sharp skates. Taped sticks.
• Be ready when it is your turn for a drill.

3. Don’t waste time

• Don’t waste the first 5 minutes! Practice a skill you are weak at.
• 5 seconds back to coach when called. 5 seconds to get to the next drill.
• Bring water to the coaching board.

4. Challenge yourself to get better EVERY rep

• Have purpose in every action.
• Compete to win every drill.
• Create disadvantages for yourself.
• Match yourself to face specific players who challenge you in areas you want to improve.

5. Sprint all out and execute with maximum tempo

• Win every shift. Win every battle.

6. Pay attention to instructions and Go First!

• Strive to be the first in drills, demonstrating readiness and engagement.
• Taking responsibility early on enhances focus and understanding.

7. Great PASSING Habits

• Deliver passes with precision and appropriate weight for the situation.
• Catch every pass
• Work on a great FIRST TOUCH. Catch passes in stride. Use your body to protect the puck.
• Minimize stick handles after the catch.
• Recognize the handedness of receiving players and adjust passes accordingly.

8. Great SHOOTING Habits

• Always shoot to score in practices and games.
• Practice varied shooting routes and shot types.
• Make the goalie move BEFORE you shoot.
• Shoot LOW, just above the pads.

9. Finish every drill STRONG

• Focus on completing each play and transitioning smoothly to the next.
• Push yourself to work hard right to the end. No quitting.
• Start the next play like you would in a game at the end of each drill.

10. Leverage Waiting-In-Line Time

• Review your last rep. What could you have done better?
• Visualize and feel your next rep.
• Ask questions. Request feedback from coaches, when appropriate.