Coach Eric and Coach Andy respond to an email from a U9 coach planning a development-first season: rotating players through centre, wing and defence, using balanced lines, and encouraging kids to communicate directly with coaches. On the Built From Steel Podcast, they discuss the mixed parent response, including concerns about preparing for AAA next year.
They also talk about the approach and feel behind coaching young players, managing a bench with 10 forwards, and learning what interests each player. The conversation considers the learning curve created by new drills and why a coach may need to adapt roles and plans as the season progresses.
Key Moments
0:00 – Intro
15:30 – A U9 coach's development-first season plan
19:41 – The coaching approach behind player development
24:30 – Developing a feel for what players need
27:30 – Managing 10 forwards on a youth hockey bench
32:10 – The case for changing positions
38:00 – Player preferences for playing centre
48:00 – Avoiding doing too much as a coach
51:00 – The learning curve for new drills
1:01:10 – Learning player interests and getting them to speak
1:03:00 – Adapting as the season progresses
Key Themes
Player development at U9 can include communication, accountability and self-advocacy.
Changing positions and playing with different teammates can build a broader understanding of the game.
Coaches need a feel for individual players, including what interests them and how to get them talking.
New drills and season plans come with a learning curve and may need adaptation.
Parent expectations about early AAA preparation can clash with a development-first plan.
Watch the Academy docu-series Built From Steel on YouTube.
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