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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:

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Positional Play

Maintaining the correct positioning relative to the puck and teammates.

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Play Reading

Anticipating the flow of the game and potential plays.

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Risk Assessment

Balancing offensive opportunities with defensive responsibilities.

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Teammate Support:

Covering for others and providing outlets for passes.

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Proactiveness

Acting before the play develops rather than reacting.

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System Awareness

Understanding and adhering to team strategies.

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Playmaking

Creating opportunities without compromising the team’s structure.

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Shift Management

Maintaining consistent effort and energy throughout a shift.

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Coachability

Accepting and applying feedback to improve performance.