4 myths of cross-ice hockey at 8U  
 
Two-time U.S. Olympian Guy Gosselin sometimes finds himself in a mythbusting role with USA Hockey and one of the core principles of the American Development Model. The myth is that cross-ice hockey is impeding the progress of 8U players. Quite the contrary, Gosselin says – and the data supports him. Here are some cross-ice myths that Gosselin routinely busts.
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A radical approach to youth hockey
Minnesota leads the nation with more than 57,000 hockey players, including many who advance to the highest levels of the sport. And while the North Star State certainly enjoys the advantages of a favorable winter climate, its community-based model and long-term development mindset play a leading role in making it the State of Hockey. Now several of the state's youth programs are doubling down on that locally grown, long-term development approach, making hockey more family-friendly and developmentally focused than ever before. Could Minnesota's so-called "radical approach" work elsewhere? It all depends on your priorities.
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  Q: We are starting our first season of 8U hockey this fall with our son. My husband and I are so excited to watch our son play and start his journey toward the NHL. What advice can you give me to make sure he is on the right path?

A: Ice hockey is the greatest team sport on our planet and we're excited that you and your family are participating in this great game. I admire your passion for hockey and encourage you to explore youth hockey with your child in a fun, sporty, positive manner. My first piece of advice is to be sure to pick a program that will nurture your son's passion for the game. 8U hockey should promote fun in an athletic environment that leaves your child craving more hockey.

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Was practice successful?
Was a practice successful because the coach delivered good information? Not necessarily. We must ensure that players are receiving and absorbing that information, too. How can we make practices more about the player?
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Potential
Kids are brimming with potential, as any parent, teacher or coach will tell you. Inside every child is the great "what could be." Proper encouragement from a parent, teacher, coach or even a great friend can help turn that "what could be" into a reality. But it takes time to develop that potential, and the amount of time it takes is different for each child.

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Youth sports and the continued failure of the pay-to-play model »

Bringing risk back to recess »

The tipping point in youth sports »
 
 
 
 
 
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