https://vimeo.com/1009275372?share=copy

Topher Scott, The Founder of The Hockey Think Tank and Darryl Belfry, NHL Development Coach, discuss Winning vs. Development in Youth Hockey. This is an excerpt from their discussion on Unlocking Potential: The Art of Player Development. They acknowledge that there are challenges and responsibilities youth hockey coaches face in balancing winning with player development. The key points of the discussion include:

1. The Pitfall of Coaching Like NHL Coaches

  • Misplaced Inspiration: Many youth coaches attempt to mimic NHL strategies or philosophies, often based on limited or misleading public narratives. This approach may not be suitable for youth players.

2. Are You Really Winning If You Sit Youth Players?

  • Winning While Benching Players: Darryl challenges the notion of "winning" youth hockey games, when coaches bench less-skilled players solely to win.
  • Impact on Players: Exclusion during critical moments can lead to long-term emotional and mental consequences for young athletes, altering their relationship and love for the sport.

3. Overburdening the Top Players

  • Pressure at a Young Age: Assigning excessive responsibility to top players, like expecting them to win games single-handedly, can create unnecessary emotional pressure that they may not be mature enough to handle.
  • The Impact Beyond the Game: This pressure may extend into other areas of their lives, especially during car rides home where parents may unknowingly add to the stress.

4. Long-Term Development vs. Short-Term Wins

  • Coach’s Responsibility: Coaches must embrace all players they’ve selected for the team, ensuring every child participates and grows, even if it risks losing some games.

5. Redefining Winning

  • Beyond the Scoreboard: Darryl proposes a broader definition of winning that includes the holistic development of players and fostering a positive experience for all team members.

Conclusion

The discussion calls for a shift in youth hockey coaching philosophy, especially at the younger age levels. Coaches should focus on creating a supportive environment where all players, regardless of their skill level, feel valued and have opportunities to develop. This redefinition of winning prioritizes long-term player growth over short-term results. If you liked this conversation between Topher Scott and Darryl Belfry, check out their full interview: Unlocking Potential: The Art of Player Development.