I am thrilled to be entrusted with the great responsibility of coaching the Stittsville Rams U12 competitive hockey team for the 2023-24 season. This is my third season as head coach of the 2012 born players in the competitive Rams program. I look forward to getting started!
The U12 Program will be built on the following foundational principles:
- Safe
- Fun
- Respect
- Accountable/Commitment
- Development/Hard work
Regarding expectations of athletes, they will commit to working hard, to supporting each other, and having respect for all aspects of the game – this includes teammates, coaches, officials, opponents, and parents.
As coach, I commit to providing a program that is safe and inclusive, that is fun, that focuses on core development as competitive athletes and as members of our community. I have an annual plan that initially focuses on the fundamentals (skating, passing, shooting) and progressively builds from there into systems and tactics of the game. I am a big believer in sharing the “why” when coaching – it is about providing ongoing feedback so that every member of the team is on the same page, feels recognized for their contributions and given opportunities to grow as athletes and as people. I will demand accountability from each athlete – be on time, be prepared, support your team, give it your best effort always.
In terms of commitment, athletes and their families can expect 4 to 5 team events in a regular week. 100% attendance is expected and should be the athlete’s priority being behind only family and school.
The try out process will begin on or after September 5
th 2023. It will consist of 4 to 5 sessions that include a skills session, scrimmage and exhibition game(s). Releases will happen after the 2
nd to 5
th tryouts. Athletes continuing on through the try out process will have their jersey number posted on the SMHA website. In terms of the evaluation process, a SMHA representative will oversee a transparent procedure where there are 4 evaluators (two Rams competitive coaches from other age groups and two non biased evaluators) plus myself scoring, on a scale of 1 to 5, across multiple categories such as skating, puck control, shooting, effort, attitude, etc.
The U12 planned tournament schedule is as follows:
The Mary Parkinson’s Memorial – Richmond Hill – Sept 29-Oct 1
The Lucky Lobster – New England – Nov 3-5
Capital Mid Season Showdown – Ottawa – Nov 24-26
Bell Capital Cup – Ottawa – Dec 27-Jan 1
Preston International Hockey Tournament – Cambridge area – Jan 12-14
Finally, the Stittsville Rams organization is a key piece of the community fabric and I look forward to doing my best to carry on the tradition of helping build members of our community that we can count on. I believe hockey is for everyone and I encourage all 2012 born athletes to come and try out for the U12 Stittsville Rams.
Thank you
Chris Henry
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