The ABC’s of USA Hockey’s ADM – Part 3
The following article is the third installment in a three-part ABC series, outlining USA Hockey’s American Development Model. This article covers the letters S to Z. It provides input on how and why the program was developed as well as other interesting hockey facts and tips.S is for Stamina, Strength, Speed, Skill and Suppleness - These are the five trainable physical capacities that can be improved during age-specific periods of a child’s life.
T is for Touches (Practices and Games) - At each age level, there are prescribed numbers of ice touches to provide maximum opportunities for skill development while keeping the sport affordable for families.
U is for Under-Training - We have created a system where Squirts are playing more games than an NHL player. The amount of time spent on skill development and athleticism has given way to competition.
V is for Voluntary Program - While USA Hockey strongly encourages all youth hockey associations to follow the principles of the ADM, it is still a voluntary program.
W is for Windows of Trainability – These are the identifiable stages during a child’s physical and psychological development that offer optimum opportunities to develop particular physical capacities, such as stamina, strength, speed, sport skills and suppleness (flexibility).
X is for X-Ice – This is a more efficient use of ice time and space, allowing more kids to be on the ice at the same time, which keeps costs down and aids in skill development with the use of small area games. Grouping kids according to age and size also increases participation and skill development through more puckhandling, more shots, more saves, more goals and more fun.
Y is for Youth Hockey - This program is designed for every player in youth hockey, whether that player has set his or her sights on competing at an elite level or wants to pursue a recreational path.
Z is for Zero Time To Waste - Our hockey cultural has evolved over time, and in order to catch up to other countries, grow our ranks of players and increase the number of high-level players every youth hockey association around the country needs to adopt the principles of the ADM right away.
Editor’s note: For more information on USA Hockey’s American Development Model, please click here.
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