10-02-2025 - FYHP Coaches Email
FYHP Coaches -
We are now about one month into the season, and I'm seeing some great work done at all levels. I've watched some Mite practices, and I'm thrilled that there is minimal standing around time and kids are moving and having fun. At the full ice levels, I've seen some teams partner up for full-ice drills to start practice, and overall good tempo.
When planning for practices, it's critical to tailor your practice plan to the number of kids you have. On Sunday, I only had 4 skaters for my 14u practice, so we focused on stickhandling, passing, edge work, and 1-on-1 battle drills. Much more appropriate than working on 2v2 games or a breakout drill.
I think we can do a better job with the Driscoll attendance. I have kids that play Elite-level hockey, and they LOVE the Driscoll skills because it works. Edge skating is critical to player development. And Driscoll has done a better job this year with building from week-to-week. Our families are paying for that skill session - we should be encouraging maximum participation where we can. It's similar training you would get if you attended a Driscoll clinic, which would cost you $500+ for 8-10 sessions.
I'd like to take this opportunity to remind everyone of FYHP's call-up policy, which can be found here: FYHP - Borrowing of Players Policy
1) You need to contact the head coach from the team you wish to call up players. The guidelines say email or phone, but I believe a text is sufficient as well.
2) You can not request specific players, rather the "giving" coach can determine based on criteria. There should be preference for second year players, first.
3) There are restrictions on where you can call up from. If you coach an A team, you can call up from a B or C team at the same age level. If you coach a B team, you can call up from the C team(s), or from the A team from the younger age group. The process provides an example if you are confused.
The biggest thing is communication - let's be sure to communicate with coaches. Personally, I try to get all RSVPs in for the weekend by Tuesday, so then I can plan my call ups on Wednesday. This avoids last minute rushing, or abusing the process.
We're all a team here with a common goal. Let's work together.
TOURNAMENTS
Some people have asked about tournaments. I always defer to the MA Sanctioned Tournament website, linked here: https://www.mahockey.org/sanctionedtournaments
All of these tournaments meet MA Hockey criteria, and I've never had a bad experience with one of these. I suggest you look for at least one travel tournament with your team, if possible and families are supportive.
As I look across VHL, I see our Bantams have a combined record of 6-6-2 in very competitive divisions. Our Peewees are doing very well as well, managing some roster struggles between the C teams to put out a strong lineup each week. And our squirt program is looking very strong, as the A team competes in the "Elite" division, and our B and C teams are commonly facing (and doing well against) other town A and B teams.
Our program is strong right now. I'm very optimistic about our playdown games against Natick at all three levels, which is contrast to last year. As coaches, let's ensure our practices are appropriate, we're communicating effectively, and doing what we can to create positive experiences for all players.
If you have any questions, or need any help - don't hesitate to reach out to Casey or myself.
Best,
Eric & Casey