Hockey Player Development FAQ
Understanding Hockey Player Development
What is player development in hockey?
Player development in hockey is the process of bringing new players into an organization and developing them into higher level hockey players capable of competing at the next stage of their careers. It can focus on skill development, hockey intelligence, grit, leadership, and locker room presence, among other qualities.
At what age do hockey players begin developing for professional play?
Hockey players can begin developing at a very young age, with some players being groomed for professional play as early as ten years old. Players who show strong skills and potential are recruited to higher level teams and placed in development programs designed to help turn them into professional athletes.
Can I coach hockey without a higher education degree?
Yes. Plenty of coaching roles do not require a bachelor's or master's degree. If your goal is to coach at a high professional level, you will typically need a relevant college degree along with a coaching certification. For youth or high school level coaching, a coaching certification and hands on experience are usually enough to get you into the role you want.
Why is player development in hockey so important?
Because players are often identified at such a young age, a coach and organization need real expertise to properly develop that player's skills, mentality, and hockey knowledge over time. The know how required to do this well is a genuinely important part of running a successful hockey team at any level, and it sets development focused professionals apart from others trying to break into the industry.
How can I learn hockey player development?
If you are not already working with a team or players, Hockey Player Development Course is one of the most direct ways to gain this expertise. The course is taught by former NHL head coach Mike Johnston, who currently serves as Vice President and General Manager of the Portland Winterhawks of the Western Hockey League.
Is player development used across all levels of hockey?
Absolutely. The NHL, NCAA hockey, minor league hockey, major junior hockey, junior hockey, and even national teams all run player development programs. Understanding how player development works is essential if you want to work in hockey at any level.
About the SMWW Hockey Player Development Course
Who teaches the Hockey Player Development course?
The course is led by former NHL General Manager Mike Smith and former NHL head coach Mike Johnston. Students gain direct weekly access to two coaches who have built winning hockey organizations at the professional and major junior level, which is a level of mentorship that is genuinely difficult to find outside SMWW.
What does the Hockey Player Development course actually cover?
Over eight weeks, students learn the techniques used by junior, major junior, NCAA, and NHL organizations to develop their players, including hockey player instruction, game strategy, roster management, locker room management, minor league progression, and the teaching process used by coaches, managers, and coordinators.
Is scouting enough on its own to build a winning hockey team?
No. Selecting players through the NHL entry draft or free agency is only part of building a winning team. A player who is acquired but not properly developed mentally, physically, and emotionally is set up to struggle as they advance through the organization, which is exactly why scouting and development work hand in hand.
What if I need one-on-one assistance?
SMWW staff are available by phone throughout the course for one on one help with coursework, live sessions, or career questions. Call 1 877 SMWW NOW in the United States and Canada, +44 0 871 288 4799 in the United Kingdom, or +1 503 445 7105 from anywhere else. Our offices are in Portland, Oregon, and London, England.
Do you have more questions?
Call the office and ask! 1-877-SMWW-Now in the US or Canada. In London at +44(0) 871 288 4799 Everywhere else at +1-503-445-7105