When it comes to offseason skill development there are three universal truths that apply to every level and every age group:

• the players need reps
• it has to be fun
• it has to be different

Reps is self explanatory - you're not working on systems or in-game scenarios specifically, but the more the players practice the skills you're teaching, the easier they'll translate when they are playing a game. 

Reps for the sake of reps doesn't count though. The sun is shining outside and hopefully the kids have a different sport they're playing later, so you need to make sure practice is fun and engaging. Your mindset and approach will go a long way!

And how do we keep it fun? Ensure it's different from what the player might do during regular practices. Be creative and create different patterns and routes. 

This practice plan borrows heavily from our completely free U9 Minor Hockey Curriculum, which is a great way to spend some of your well-earned free time over the summer!