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Pre-competition Preparation (Part 2)
Prepare for the opposition
1. Through your own experience, by viewing video or by viewing statistics determine “players to watch” on the opposing team (this prepares you to deal with the better players on the opposing team because you know who they are and their tendencies. Usually the “better” players are the “better” players game in and game out. (this will also prepare you for shootout situations)
2. Again through your own experience, by viewing video or discussion with your head or assistance coaches, determine the type of game offense this team usually plays or the combinations you will most likely see (this prepares you to formulate a plan for your reaction to most of opposition zone entries & power play, plus how you will need to communicate with your defense for a stretch pass, wide rim, dump & chase or beat the “D” and net drive situations etc.)
3. Similarly, you should make yourself aware of the opposition tendencies once they penetrate the defensive zone on 5 on 5, 5 on 4, or 5 on 3 situations (this will allow you to develop a game plan for reaction to each of these pressure situations so you improve your chances for success)
Reminders
Pick one or two self-reminds to take with you into the game. Here is a quick list of some self-reminders you might use:
- track every puck into and away from your body, gear, stick etc.
- focus on getting into position quickly on passes
- re-position quickly on rebounds
- set my feet before every shot
- fight to find pucks in traffic
- be patient
- be under control (physically & emotionally)
- help my “D” by communicating with them
- get out & handle all pucks that are near the net
- battle for every puck
- BREATH
Physical Warm-up (typical)
Pre-ice
1. Dynamic stretch / warm-up (10 – 15 minutes)
2. Technical movements include quickness and agility exercises with tennis balls or “reaction” balls either alone or with your goaltending partner. (10 minutes)
3. Static Stretch (5 minutes)
On-ice
For the first couple of minutes – movement drills (saves & crease movements, slides – do outside the crease) then team warm up (discuss with your coach & team mates the most effective warm up for you)
Focus on the process of the warm up and not whether a shot goes by you and into the net. IT IS A WARM UP ONLY TO PREPARE YOU TO PLAY.
IN GAME - BE ACCOUNTABLE
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