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Originally Posted by calgarygeologist
Instead of starting a new thread this one came up in a search and I figured it was best to put my questions here (I haven't read the full thread.)
My kid just started his first year of Timbits hockey. He is the youngest on his team and pretty inexperienced and as such he is towards the lower end of skill and development. Like everyone he just needs more time to develop. I think it would be good for him to do some additional hockey in the upcoming off season.
His coach actually sent out an email to the team today with info on Calgary Spring hockey ( http://springhockey.ca/league.php?sc...16350&cache=no) I wouldn't mind signing my kid up for this if it was actually focused on providing the necessary level of development to improve his game. Is anyone familiar with this program at the Timbit (Initiation) level? I know there are a lot of summer camps as well which is another option. A couple of parents have mentioned that the summer camps at WinSport are really good.
What should I consider for my kid in the off season to help improve his skating and puck skills? I want something that will actually be beneficial and not just something where he is just another body on the ice or bench that is generating revenue for the program. |
How old is your son? Four or Five? I would just concentrate on skating if he is this young. Canskate is great, and I highly recommend it. If he is a more advanced skater, put him in Can Power skate. (There is no shame in having your son take skating lessons that doesn't involve hockey equipment and hockey sticks. It pisses me off when I see kids in Power skating that can barely stand up. Learn the basics first and then move into power skating)
Take the time to play with him in the driveway, garage, basement or out door rink to work on his shooting, passing, and stick handling. Make sure to make it fun, kids at that age will lose interest real fast if you take it to seriously. You can easily tell at that age which parents take the time to play with their kids and which don't.
As for spring hockey? My son played his first season last year as a seven year old (2007 birth year). It really helped him develop his skills and at evaluations for Novice in Red Deer back in October, he was ranked in the highest group as a first year player (top 20).