Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/1528006
U S A H O C K E Y PA R E N T H A N D B O O K 3 HOCKEY IS FUN FOR USA HOCKEY LAUNCHED the American Development Model in 2009, providing a framework for optimal athlete development. Since then, USA Hockey has continued to build upon the framework, implementing best practices nationwide through a network of volunteers, in order to ensure that every child has the opportunity to experience fun in hockey. By giving your child the USA Hockey experience, you're setting them up for long-term success. It's proven programming, built on research and data from leading hockey nations, sport scientists, coaches and educators. As the parent of a USA Hockey athlete, you know that your coach has participated in Coaching Education Program training and has access to our extensive resources. You also know officials at your games have been trained and passed the USA Hockey rules test, and that your coach and any adults with your team have been Safe Sport trained and have passed a background check. The foundation we've created for ice hockey gives parents the confidence that their child can have a fun and safe sports experience. Hockey is fun. USA Hockey believes in letting kids be kids. We believe that kids and their families should get the most out of hockey without feeling undue pressure. We believe in community-based youth hockey. We believe in keeping kids YOUR CHILD S T A Y O N T R A C K • Age-specific, age-appropriate development. • An opportunity to efficiently learn and refine essential skills with a healthy balance between competition and development. • A sensible practice-to-game ratio that encourages efficient player development. • High-performance practice and game programming emphasizing skill development, competition, and engagement is FUN. • Structured training programs for coaches and qualified adult leadership. • A philosophy that promotes engagement and enjoyment. As the basis for youth hockey in the U.S., the ADM provides: engaged, moving and smiling. We believe in creating a safe and fun environment that is welcoming to everyone. We believe in making optimal use of ice time. We believe in creating great athletes, not just hockey players. USA Hockey believes your family will enjoy the mental, social and physical well- being that hockey offers.