Why Golden Stick Hockey Player Development

• Foundation: Emphasize values like integrity, gratitude, humility, and perseverance as guiding principles in both life and hockey.

• Purpose-Driven Growth: Reinforce the idea that hockey is a tool for personal development, teaching players to honor their God-given talents through effort and commitment.

On-Ice Training with a Purpose

• Skill Development Rooted in Values: While focusing on skating, stickhandling, shooting, and game IQ, tie lessons to personal virtues, such as patience in refining skills or courage in competition.

• Leadership Through Example: As a coach, model values like positivity, discipline, and respect, inspiring players to adopt these traits.

Holistic Development

• Wellness Integration: Build on Goldenstick's emphasis on nutrition, sleep, and habits by encouraging gratitude practices (like pre-game reflections) and teamwork as a form of serving others.

• Video Analysis with Encouragement: During breakdowns, highlight not only areas for improvement but also the player's growth, reinforcing a sense of purpose and confidence.

Team Culture and Community

• Value-Based Activities: Create opportunities for players to participate in team building or discussions about applying values to sports and life.

• Supportive Environment: Cultivate a culture where players of all backgrounds feel included, building camaraderie through shared goals and respect.

Player Outcomes

Players would not only enhance their technical hockey skills but also develop strong moral character, a deeper understanding of their purpose, and the ability to inspire others.

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Playing Background:

• Played AAA youth for Chicago Fury

• Played Tier 2 Canadian Junior hockey in Brampton, Ontario (OJHL)

• Attended College in Minnesota Saint Mary’s but retired due to concussions. 

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Coaching Background:

• One year Sioux City Assistant Coach (USHL)

• Two years Tri-City Storm Assistant Coach (USHL)

• One year Las Vegas Storm Head Coach (youth u14AA)

• One year Las Vegas Storm Head Coach (youth u12B)

• Two years at Lafayette Locomotive Head Coach (youth u8, 14A & 12AA)

• Worked a year in USPHL, ACHA DII, AAA in Chicago

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Other Experience:​​

• Received 2019 USHL Anderson Cup

• Received 2019 USHL Player of the Year Award, 2019 USA Hockey Player of the Year Award, 2019 USHL Rookie of the Year Award, 2019 USHL Defenseman of the Year Award, 2019 USHL Goaltender of the Year Award

• USA Hockey Select Festival Coach 16’s 2021