skip navigation

The 14U/16U Hockey Player’s Credo

07/09/2015, 10:30am MDT
By USA Hockey

There’s a sign at the players’ entrance for the U.S. National Team Development Program that reads, “Take Responsibility for Your Development.” And at 14U/16U, it’s time for you to do just that. Mom, dad and coach can’t do it for you. It’s on you now.

We came up with some guidelines to help keep you on track. In no particular order, here is the 14U/16U hockey player’s credo. Print this and put it on your bedroom door or in your team’s locker room.

  • Practice like you compete during games.
  • Eat like you care about yourself and your development.
  • Be confident but not cocky. There is a difference.
  • Motivate yourself. Do not rely on external motivation or other “rewards” offered to you. Those will not last.
  • Be aware of your body language, on and off the ice. Scouts, coaches, potential employers (not to mention future boyfriends/girlfriends) will all pay attention to how you carry yourself.
  • Quick-release shots are more effective than slap shots.
  • Do not complain to the ref.
  • Do not complain about the ref, teammates or coaches to anyone, including your parents.
  • Be a leader. There are many ways to lead, even if you are not the most skilled player.
  • Nothing comes easy.
  • Remember to rest and recover.
  • Playing hard and playing clean are not mutually exclusive.
  • Don’t quit playing and trying other sports.
  • Thank your parents.
  • Even NHL players work on their skating every day.
  • Respect the game and the game will respect you. Respect your teammates, your opponents, the officials, your coaches, the locker room, the arena workers, bus drivers and volunteers.
  • Remember that you are creating lifelong memories with lifelong friends. You will reminisce about these days when you’re older.
  • Skate hard off the ice at the end of every shift.
  • Learn how to bounce back from bad games and bad shifts.
  • Do not be afraid of failure.
  • Give back to the game. Mentoring younger players has its benefits.
  • It’s worth repeating: “Take responsibility for your development.”

More ADM Newsletter Articles

Tag(s): Newsletters