Our Development Program (Guelph Minor Hockey Association)

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Guelph Minor Hockey Association & Hockey Canada
2019/20 Player Development Plan


For the 2019/20 hockey season, we are introducing our next three year development plan that will focus on: 


  • Ensuring an increased continuity in development from year to year, from the minor novice to bantam age groups. In particular great emphasis will put on minor novice through to atom; as this has been identified as an age group where young athletes are most “malleable” with a capacity to learn and maintain new skills.

  • Communication to parents about the plan and rationale for the plan.

  • We will continue to implement shared and split ice; as a smaller ice surface allows for more touches, shooting opportunities, game like situations, and more fun! 

  • Training will be led by experienced third party instructors to maximize player/team specific skills and development. 

  • An efficient allocation of ice time and use based upon player/team age, development rate, and skill.


What are the benefits of a long term development plan?

  • Sustained Growth

    • Development occurs within the framework of excellent planning with strong leadership. Meet our development team by clicking here. 

    • Provides motivation and insight into the type of performance necessary to meet goals. 

  • Consistent Message

    • The more consistent your message, the more consistent your brand. Brand consistency is the pattern of expression that affects what people think about you

  • Health and Well-Being

    • Develop children on and off the ice, but not at the expense of health, school and other extra-curricular activities.

  • Age Appropriate Development

    • Utilize smaller ice surfaces to commensurate with age, size and skill.

    • Less Muscle fatigue in developing bodies.

    • Focus on the development of specific skills.

    • Specialized skill refinement opportunities (touches).

    • Helps the coaches specify the needs of their players (coach support).


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): 

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