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M H J O N L I N E . C O M | N O V / D E C 2 0 2 4 14 by Mike Doyle Hockey Habits Tips CENTER OF ATTENTION When the coach blows the whistle to call a huddle and explain a drill, the players who get to the coach first are appreciated. This behavior is a good indicator of which players are ready to listen, learn and compete. "If they are all listening and ready, then when we get down and play that small-area game, we don't have to worry about stopping after 30 seconds because the first group knew what was happening but the second group had no clue what to do because they weren't paying attention." COACHES LOVE HARD WORKERS and good teammates. But what other traits and behaviors do coaches really value in their players? Ted Cheesebrough, assistant coach at Hamline University, gives his insights on 10 things players do that coaches absolutely love. WHEN NO ONE IS LOOKING Make the most of free time. Work on creative passing with a teammate, play keep-away or try new stickhandling moves. "We lament how kids don't skate out- side like they used to, so if you have three or four minutes before practice, and you're grabbing a puck and you're trying to put it in your feet and kick it back or trying little drags one direction and then the other," said Cheesebrough, who coached high school hockey for 20 years. "I like it because that kid is trying to do something to make himself better. And he might not even realize it." MANY HANDS MAKE LIGHT WORK Coaches are ecstatic when players do things without asking – pick up pucks, put away cones, post the nets before practice, or grab the nets after practice. "I love those players who are going to move pucks or get the nets ready so we can maximize the limited amount of practice time," Cheesebrough said. "It shows maturity and responsibility, whether they're 10 or 18. … Good way to get on the coach's good side is help without asking." Photo / Scott Butler PEER-TO-PEER CONNECTION It's a fine line and a big ask, especially for younger players, but players who can correct a teammate without mak- ing him or her feel criticized or under attack are invaluable to coaches. Be open to new positions, assignments and roles from your coaching staff. 10 Things Coaches Love with Hamline Assistant Coach Ted Cheesebrough "First, it speaks to engagement: 'Coach I'm ready to go. I'm ready to listen to what you're saying, I'm ready to play."