About

I promote a balanced integrated approach to coaching.

Both technique and decision making are essential to success. The Hockey Challenge is based on technique development. On the Helpful Little Gems page you will find a number of articles regarding decision-making.

If young players can learn sound technique and practise to the point it becomes second nature (automatic) then most of their attention can be given to “doing the right thing at the right time.”

Technical skills training need not be dull it does not mean standing for hours in pairs pushing the ball back and forth. Especially at young ages the emphasis will be technical within the context of any given drill. Once a framework of sound technique is established, then decision -making and technique receive equal emphasis. Eventually of course decision -making forms 90% of the content.

I like to explain the options available to players, give them the technical tools to view the challenge and emphasise the cues that help them choose a particular course of action.  

In my view, the beauty of the game is in passing sequences that create shooting opportunities and the cerebral “battle of wits” against an opponent and the opposition team.

With the benefit of 40 years of coaching experience in a variety of school, club and performance environments I have helped players on their route to top class hockey.

The advice in this website is not faddy or trendy but stress tested over many years!