Inclusive Hockey Coaching for Youth
Hockey sense, or hockey IQ, is about consistently making smart decisions during games. It’s not the same as being “book smart.” It’s more about understanding the flow of the game, knowing where to be, and making plays that help your team. A good example is knowing when to pass versus when to stickhandle—if you try to force things and lose the puck all the time, your hockey IQ might not be there yet. Scouts are looking for players who make the game easier for their teammates by being in the right spots and making the right plays.
What Scouts Notice:
Positional Play
Maintaining the correct positioning relative to the puck and teammates.
Play Reading
Anticipating the flow of the game and potential plays.
Risk Assessment
Balancing offensive opportunities with defensive responsibilities.
Teammate Support:
Covering for others and providing outlets for passes.
Proactiveness
Acting before the play develops rather than reacting.
System Awareness
Understanding and adhering to team strategies.
Playmaking
Creating opportunities without compromising the team’s structure.
Shift Management
Maintaining consistent effort and energy throughout a shift.
Coachability
Accepting and applying feedback to improve performance.