Elite Hockey Canada - Creating a Winning Team by Focusing on Player Development

Creating a Winning Team by Focusing on Player Development

by Jeff Lynt

Feb 23rd

As a coach, the ultimate goal is to create a winning team. But what does it take to achieve that? Some coaches focus solely on team tactics and strategies, while others emphasize the development of individual players. However, the best approach is to combine both elements and create a team identity that maximizes the potential of every player on the roster.

In this article, we'll explore the key factors that contribute to creating a winning team through a player development-focused approach. We'll discuss the importance of creating personalized development plans for each player, finding the right fit for building a team identity, developing players for all hockey scenarios, and avoiding the pitfalls of pigeonholing or developing "role players". We'll also highlight studies that support this approach.

By the end of this article, we hope you have a better understanding of how to build a winning team that not only performs well on the ice but also nurtures the growth and potential of each player.

Personal Development Plans: Coaches' Responsibility

Coaches of minor hockey players, have a responsibility to develop each player's skills to their fullest potential. They need to ensure that every player receives individualized attention and focus on their specific areas of development to help them become well-rounded players. This requires coaches to create personal development plans (PDP) for each player and avoid taking an "upside-down" approach of focusing solely on team needs rather than individual needs.

PDPs should be tailored to each player's strengths and weaknesses, not just pigeonholing them into a specific role that they may not be suited for. This means coaches need to have a deep understanding of each player's skills, and design a plan that focuses on improving those skills while also pushing players out of their comfort zones to try new things.

Studies have shown that when players are allowed to develop their skills in a more individualized way, they are more likely to experience success in the long run. Leading to better outcomes for both the individual players and the team as a whole. A 2011 study published in the Journal of Sports Sciences found that coaches who prioritize player development over winning are more likely to have players who reach their full potential. A study by the University of British Columbia found that individualized training resulted in increased confidence and self-esteem in players.

Building a Team Identity: Know your players first

Coaches often prioritize building a team identity and playing style that emphasizes certain strengths, such as a fast-paced offense or a physical defensive strategy. While it is important to have a cohesive team identity, coaches should not try to build it without considering the individual strengths and weaknesses of each player. The identity should come from the sum of the parts (skills and identity of all the players)

Coaches must find a way to utilize each player's unique skill set to build a team identity. This approach requires coaches to assess each player's strengths and weaknesses and develop them to maximize their potential. This way, players feel valued and are more likely to buy into the team's philosophy.

By taking the time to get to know each player individually, coaches can create a team culture that values teamwork, communication, and accountability. This can lead to a more cohesive and successful team on the ice. Studies have shown that coaches who take the time to understand the skills of each player on their roster have more success in building a cohesive team (Swann et al., 2012). By finding the right fit for each player, coaches can create a team identity that maximizes the potential of every player on the team. This approach can lead to more successful outcomes on the ice and a more positive experience for the players. Another study by Yoo and Kim (2016) found that when coaches use a player-centered approach and focus on individual strengths and abilities, they are more likely to build a strong team identity and improve team performance.

In addition to building a team identity, coaches should provide many opportunities for players to work on specific skills and techniques, as well as giving them the chance to play in different scenarios.

Upside Down Thinking: "Developing Players for the Team, Not the Individual"

Some coaches may adopt an "upside down" approach when developing their players. This approach involves focusing solely on developing players for the team's needs, rather than taking into account the individual development needs of each player. This approach can lead to coaches pigeonholing players into specific roles on the team, which may not be suitable for their individual skillset and can hinder their overall development.

Coaches also need to be careful that some players may get "locked in" to a certain position or role because they happen to be good at it or because they refuse to play anywhere else. This can limit their growth as players and prevent them from developing new skills that could benefit the team in the long run. At the same time, other players may be denied the opportunity to try a position or role that they might excel at because of this lock-in effect.

It is important for coaches to recognize that every player brings a unique set of skills to the team. Players should not be forced to fit into predetermined roles or become "role players", especially in areas that do not suit their strengths. By recognizing and utilizing each player's individual strengths, coaches can create a well-rounded team that can adapt to various game situations.

Utilizing the strengths of each player also leads to higher levels of individual player satisfaction and development. Studies have shown that players who feel valued and are given opportunities to develop their skills are more likely to remain committed to the team (Petitpas et al., 2005). Therefore, coaches who focus on individual player development while building a team identity will not only create a more successful team but also foster a positive team culture that promotes player retention and development.

A 2017 study published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology found that athletes who feel that their coach is focused on their personal development rather than just the team are more likely to report high levels of motivation and commitment to their sport.

In order to avoid an upside down approach and properly develop each player, coaches should take into account the unique skills and abilities of each player on their team.

All Players Need All Elements of Hockey Play: Don't Create Role Players

In hockey, a "role player" typically refers to a player whose primary function is to fill a specific role on the team, rather than necessarily being a high-scoring or standout player. These players may be responsible for specific tasks, such as penalty killing or physical play, and having these players is often crucial. However, coaches must be careful not to create roles that pigeonhole players and hinder their development.

All Players need to know how to play the power play, penalty kill and work along the boards. It is crucial to ensure that all players receive a well-rounded development that includes all aspects of hockey play. This means that coaches should not force players into specific roles or positions, but rather provide opportunities for each player to develop their skills across all areas of the game. Furthermore, creating an environment where all players are encouraged to develop their skills across all areas of the game can help to reduce the risk of burnout and increase overall enjoyment and engagement in the sport.

While it may be tempting for a coach to always rely on their top performers in key moments, it is important to recognize that all players need to work on those situations and the pressures that come with it. By giving every player the opportunity to work on different skills and play in different situations, coaches can help them reach their full potential and contribute to the team's success in a more well-rounded way. It is crucial that coaches avoid favoring certain players and creating a hierarchy of roles, as this can lead to resentment and frustration among the team.

Studies have shown that focusing on individual player development rather than winning at all costs can lead to more success in the long run. In fact, one study found that teams that prioritize individual player development over winning at the youth level are more likely to produce players who go on to play at higher levels of competition.

Creating a Winning Team

Winning should never come at the expense of player development. By using personal development plans, coaches can ensure that each player receives the training and guidance necessary to reach their full potential. By focusing on each player's individual needs, coaches can create a team that is stronger overall and better prepared to compete at a high level.

In conclusion, coaches have a responsibility to develop each player's skills and create a team that plays to its strengths. Personal development plans are an effective tool for achieving this goal. By avoiding pigeonholing, finding the right fit, focusing on individual player development, and ensuring that all players receive training in all aspects of the game, coaches can create a winning team that is also focused on player development.