The Thrashers brought full sets of hockey equipment and The Cooler supplied skates as over fifty youngsters gave hockey a try for the first time. There were smiles all around and it was a good time for all the players who participated in the drills that emphasized fun and skill development. The Atlanta Fire organization is partnering up with USA Hockey in their quest to change the culture of hockey by following the principles of  The American Development Model, and The Fire will strictly adhere to the ADM principles set forth by USA Hockey.  Please visit usahockey.com to learn more about this new initiative. As USA Hockey’s Roger Grillo states in his outstanding commentary, “Changing The Culture of Hockey One Shift at a Time” from the January issue of USA Hockey magazine, “it should be our mission to give our kids an environment that allows them to grow a strong passion for the game and give them multiple opportunities to make mistakes, be creative and learn through trial and error.” An environment of encouragement and consistent positivity is a must for the kids to thoroughly enjoy the process. When you provide this type of environment the development curve is greatly improved! Build up our players whenever you get a chance!

Written by: Coach Steve Jacobs