Under 13 Development

Phase Two, "Learning to Train," in the Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model is vital for youth hockey players, generally between the ages of 8 to 12. This phase focuses on developing fundamental movement skills and basic sport-specific techniques, providing a foundation for future athletic success. Emphasis is placed on teaching players how to train effectively, introducing them to structured practice sessions that include a variety of drills to improve their agility, balance, coordination, and speed. Players begin to understand the importance of practice and repetition in skill acquisition, while also starting to grasp basic tactical concepts and the rules of the game. This stage prioritises enjoyment and fostering a love for the sport, ensuring that training is engaging and fun to promote long-term participation and commitment. By the end of this phase, athletes should have a solid base of fundamental skills and a growing tactical awareness, preparing them for the more intensive training later in their hockey journey.