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In this episode, Javi sits down with Jim Haverstrom to explore a fresh approach to youth hockey coaching. Jim explains how his game-based, small-area practices transform the way young players develop skills and decision-making. Rather than isolating techniques, his methods use purposeful, in-game scenarios to build hockey IQ and foster creativity on the ice. He also shares strategies for communicating these innovative methods to parents, emphasizing long-term growth over immediate wins.

Key Topics Discussed:

✅ Transitioning from traditional drills to game-based, small-area practices

✅ Using incentives in practice to promote passing, neutral zone play, and overall game sense

✅ Achieving lasting behavior change even when incentives are removed

✅ Communicating coaching methods effectively with parents to build patience and long-term vision

✅ Identifying an athlete’s challenge point through observation and guided discovery

✅ Fostering autonomy and adaptability in young hockey players

✅ Leveraging analogies from Nick Winkelman’s book, The Language of Coaching, to simplify coaching concepts

Resources & Mentions:

📌 Connect with Jim Haverstrom on Twitter: @JimHaverstrom

📌 Learn more about innovative coaching techniques with USA Hockey resources

📌 Recommended Book: The Language of Coaching by Nick Winkelman

📌 Explore additional insights at The Adaptable Athlete Podcast website

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Credits: Song- "Starstruck" by Freebeats.io

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