Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/1161317
33 SEPTEMBER 2019 USAHOCKEYMAGAZINE.COM the adoption of the ADM as a means of moving in another direc- tion of what other clubs in the state. It was challenging at times, but looking back he feels it was well worth the effort. "It was really foreign to people. You have clubs that have that win-at-all-costs mentality, even at the 8U level, and they aren't thinking long term," Esdale says. "The ADM is great because it focuses on train- ing and development the right way. It took time for people to see the results, but it's been great. Kids are getting more reps, having more fun and you are reminded of why you are involved in the sport." It's a decision the Junior Reign l e a d e r s h i p g r o u p h a s n o r e g r e t s about. And it's paid off beyond what anyone could have ever imagined going into it. "Kids that would have never had a chance to become good hockey players have become good players under the [previous] model," Esdale says. "It gives a chance to be as good as they want to be. The model allows any kid to get better if they are willing to put in the work." Adopting the ADM has also played a key role in retention. Players are staying involved in the sport even into high school, something that doesn't always happen because of burnout. "We are about the athlete and development," Frank says. "It's more fun for the kids because they are doing the right things at the right age. There is less negative pressure. There are challenges, but they are the right kinds of challenges." Getting everyone is on the same page also helped the Reign earn the status as an ADM Model Association. To get there, organizations must meet or exceed USA Hockey 's prescribed stan- dards of age-appropriate, age-specific skill develop- ment at the 8 & Under, 10 & Under and 12 & Under age classifications. Those that achieve model club status receive extra support from USA Hockey, including in-person coaches training, on-ice instruction and parent resources from national staff, along with e q u i p m e n t , s i g n a g e a n d other educational materials. N o t o n l y h a s a p a g e turned for the Junior Reign under the ADM system, but it's also opened new doors. The Junior Reign switched its name from Wildcats when it became affiliated with the NHL's Los Angeles Kings and its AHL team, the Ontario Reign. "The kids get a lot of really cool experiences, going to games, going into the locker rooms, having players at practice," Frank says. "It all happened because we believed in the model because it's about doing what's right for the kids long term. That was a big part of us gaining that partnership." So, how does Frank know the ADM is working? Look no further than the smiles on the faces of the players at all ages of the program. "Our kids just play hockey," Frank says. "They love the style of play under the model because it allows for more creativity and the games tend to be more offensive, which is great for the kids game." The model is always changing, and the potential for the future it is unlimited. "The more we grow and evolve, the better hockey players the kids become. Kids are fully engaged and whether they play at a higher level or just take it to the local rink, the impact of the program is positive," Esdale says. "That's what we want. We want to develop high-level players and high-level people, and the ADM lends itself to that." P Brian Lester is a freelance writer based in Pensacola, Fla. "Our kids just play hockey. They love the style of play under the model because it allows for more creativity and the games tend to be more offensive." Adhering to the principles of the American Development Model does more than just produce better hockey players. It instills a passion in the game that will stay with them for life.