TESTIMONIALS

HOCKEY CHALLENGE

“In a vague landscape of subjective decisions we sought a way to provide players with specific quantitative feedback on basic hockey techniques. This instantly provides players with accurate feedback and areas for development. This is crucial when assessing a high number of players but also eliminates the issue of an onerous feedback process which becomes muddled. At Surbiton we use it to assess our U12/U14 and Talent Academy players. Using the tests over a number of seasons we are able to keep track of progression to see how players are applying themselves. Whilst this isn’t the only criteria for assessment it is a big step forward for hockey!”

Will Fulker (Surbiton Hockey Club Director of Coaching)

2023/4 Season National Titles:-

U18 Girls

U16 Girls

U14 Girls (Euro Hockey League) National cup final early May

U16 Boys

100 plus Juniors playing in the EHL at present

'The technical tests are a forward thinking and innovative method of assessing a player's current/potential ability. Nearly all assessments in hockey currently in the talent system are done through the coaches eyes and although there is a growing awareness around unconscious bias, it is impossible to fully and accurately mitigate for this. The technical tests provide a simple yet incredibly well thought out quantitative method of assessment, which objectively measures a player without coach bias. In Hockey Mentors we have utilised the technical tests as part of our Talent ID days to identify the best state school and/or ethnic minority talent in the country, with Jon also providing further tests around aerobic capacity and gameplay skills to provide a comprehensive talent ID framework. The real insight from the tests isn't just the scores themselves but the nuanced interpretation of each element to provide a comprehensive understanding of a player. I would highly recommend the technical tests for coaches committed to developing their players, as well as the range of additional consultancy services Jon can provide'

(Jack Childs, Hockey Mentors Founder)      

GB and England Internationals Tom Sorsby, David Goodfield & Brendan Creed

Explain, assess and coach using the HOCKEY CHALLENGE

Tony Haycroft

Ref: Sarah Evans (Nee Haycroft)

Ref: Sarah Evan's

It happens at the highest level Jon with players not knowing what a V drag is let alone execute one - you taught Sarah that at 11/12 I seem to remember. Keep up the good work (it is magic) as always.

Lesley MacIntosh (NZ)

I remember when i asked you to run a hockey session for coaches- i think we had 30 coaches soaking up your goodness and they signed up bloody fast to learn from you. However When i would advertise the “official qulatification” courses run by the NSO i would hear crickets and tumble weeds roll by-not many were interested.

You have such amazing knowledge Jon-it was practical, fun engaging and coming from a place of vast esperience (obviously) and didnt require sitting in a class room which was the appeal. You varied your session to show how one activity could be modified for the average player to then be used by a high performance player. 

Keep sharing as it's inspiring

Jo Nightingale

Hi Jon, players encouraged to play games with few coaches able to analyse how to improve technique. There appears to be a lack of understanding about techniques. Today's courses about game play which is great but there has to be a balance. Too many good coach educators with lots of knowledge and skills have been sidelined. There are very little quality assurance checks on the competencies of the ‘new’ coaches of today who once had to demonstrate that they could analyse performance and support player development. A number of NGBs have returned to the original coaching framework where assessment is part of the qualification.

Malcom Miller

It's been an eye opener coaching various children this summer and I share your sentiments Jon. Fundamentals absolutely crucial!