2018 Gorillas Hockey Academy

ELEVATING HOCKEY PERFORMANCE

Program Vision

Our program is designed for young players who are excited to improve their hockey skills while being part of a team culture built on sportsmanship, positivity, and respect.

For the 2018 player, the goal is not just to develop hockey players, but to help children develop confidence, teamwork, and a love for the game that will last a lifetime.

Our approach focuses on long-term athlete development, mentorship, and the creation of a structured environment where players grow both on and off the ice.

We believe that development at this age must balance competitiveness with enjoyment. Kids improve fastest when they enjoy coming to the rink, feel supported, and are challenged in the right way.


– Our goal is simple

Create an environment where players work hard, learn new skills, build friendships, and leave the rink excited to come back.


Our Development Approach

We focus on building strong hockey fundamentals while encouraging confidence and creativity in young players.

Areas of development include:

  • Skating mechanics and edge control
  • Puck skills and skill progression
  • Hockey IQ and decision making
  • Compete level and confidence
  • Team play and communication

These fundamentals build the foundation players need as they continue towards higher levels of hockey.

But development at this age must always remain fun and engaging. When players are smiling, competing, learning, and enjoying themselves, that’s when real growth happens.


At this level, talent alone doesn’t win — environment does.

When coaches and parents are aligned, supportive, and positive, it creates stability and confidence for the players. A healthy team culture allows kids to play freely, support one another, and develop a strong sense of belonging.

Our team environment emphasizes:

• Encouragement and positivity
• Respect for teammates, coaches, and opponents
• Learning how to win with humility and lose with character
• Building friendships and supporting one another

These values help players grow not only as athletes, but as people.


Role of the Head Coach

As head coach, my responsibility is to set the standard for team culture, work ethic, accountability, and attitude.

I oversee practice planning, game strategy, and player development, but my most important role is creating an environment where every player feels supported, valued, and motivated to improve.

Coaching 2018 players goes far beyond the game itself. Our program focuses on teaching players:

• Respect and sportsmanship
• Effort and resilience
• Confidence and accountability
• What it means to be a great teammate

The rink must be a place where kids feel safe physically and emotionally — where they are encouraged to try new things, learn from mistakes, and continue growing.


What Families Can Expect

Families who join this program can expect:

• Structured, organized practices focused on skill development
• A positive and supportive coaching environment
• Clear communication and leadership
• A strong emphasis on teamwork and sportsmanship
• A program focused on long-term development, not short-term results

Our goal is to create a program where kids are excited to come to the rink and motivated to keep improving.