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Off Ice Conditioning

Age specific training. 12 year olds don't need the same work out as 18 year olds. Follow age/body development specific programs.
Visit athleteconstruction.com to learn more about off ice conditioning.

Common injuries and prevention

Concussions are becoming more and more prevalent. Prevention would begin with purchasing a new helmet to start every season. NHL makes their players do this and it seems to be helping.
Knee injuries - Sharp skates prevent this type of injury as well as a shin guard that doesn’t allow the knee to hyperextend
Hip Flexor/Groin: Sharp skates prevent this type of injury as well as stretching before each ice touch
Shoulder injuries: Properly fitting shoulder pads and stretching

Hydration

Water is the best; next I would recommend PediaSure® the infant equivalent of Gatorade®.
Players should hydrate it will keep them from cramping, slow down muscle fatigue, help in recovery. At the NHL level, it is one of the key components that all teams monitor in one form or another both pre-workout and post-workout.

Post Practice / Post Game Recovery

Chocolate milk is one of the best recovery agents going, another is meal replacement drinks such as Slim Fast® Snacks
Fruits, vegetables that are easily digestible

Suggested Parental Code of Conduct from the Coach's perspective

Treat everyone the way you want to be treated.
Cheer for you son or daughter not against the other team.
It's a long season that will have peaks and valleys. When you win, be humble. When you lose, be gracious. Positive attitudes always make for a more enjoyable season.
Let the coaches coach, and parents cheer.

Ways that parents can best support the coach/player relationship

Keep the lines of communication open and positive. Before the season find out exactly what your coaches goals for the team are for the season and the goals for your child as a player are for the season. Write them down and refer to them often.
Coaches are responsible for the entire team of 15-20 players. Remember to take that into consideration if an issue should arise with your player.
Wait 24 hours before discussing an issue with the coach. This will hopefully keep the meeting positive without any emotions taking over and things being said that can’t be taken back. Coaches are human, keep that in mind.