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"HOCKEY SENSE" OR "HOCKEY I.Q." is frequently attributed to some of the best players in the game. Current NHLers like Sidney Crosby and Pavel Datsyuk, as well as former greats such as Wayne Gretzky, are credited with possessing off-the-charts hockey sense. While focus naturally turns to top-tier professionals who exhibit these abilities, it has become more commonly accepted that hockey I.Q. is actually developed and honed at the youth levels. In fact, according to Bob Mancini, regional manager of USA Hockey's American Development Model, players at the Bantam level can and should develop these skills through targeted training. "Hockey players, even beginning at the Peewee level, are at the age where they are developing the cognitive ability to read situations, react to the play and make decisions on the ice," said Mancini, whose hockey resume includes time spent in the NCAA and National Hockey League, as well as with the National Team Development Program. "This is the age where the mental capabilities of the players are beginning to catch up to their physical abilities." The ADM follows the principles of long-term athlete development, which holds that certain aspects of children's developmental stages must be addressed at the appropriate times in order for kids to reach their genetic potential. Maximum hockey development occurs through age-appropriate structure and content, and coaches like Mancini believe that certain practice techniques, including the use of small area games, should be implemented to help players develop hockey sense. "Small area games, where players are forced to make a high number of quick decisions in a short amount of time and space, and games that focus on odd-number play during which players must sort out their options and responsibilities, are highly effective," Mancini noted. "Taking into account that repetition is a key component to learning, these small area games provide a much higher number of repetitions of game situations than do drills." Off the ice, The Hockey IntelliGym—a software-based cognitive training tool designed to create read-and-react scenarios that enhance on-ice decision-making—can be a valuable asset for players ages 12 and up. "I am a big believer in the IntelliGym and what it brings to all players at the Bantam age level and up," Mancini said. "It is a fun way to help young players with their spatial awareness and a great addition to the model club training. It starts by helping to teach players that they themselves must begin to take responsibility for their training and development." A D V E R T O R I A L 37 USAHOCKEYMAGAZINE.COM DECEMBER. 2015 PHOTOS BY USA Hockey Magazine Archives; Liberty Mutual // By ALEX CLARK Powering Bantam Hockey Sense You may not realize it, but being an official is a tough job. We are losing officials in youth sports because athletes, coaches, and worst of all fans, are not showing them good sportsmanship. Officials are people too and deserve the same respect as your teammates and opponents. Liberty Mutual Insurance's Play Positive® initiative presents its series on Respecting Officials. Visit: PlayPositive.com/Officials There you can learn how to practice good sportsmanship when it comes to officials by following a six-step game plan to show respect for officials. What step will you take to show respect and appreciation for officials during your next game? Take Liberty Mutual Insurance's Play Positive® Poll to weigh in on what you will do during your next game. Watch top athletes and coaches share their experience and give advice on how to show respect for officials in our exclusive videos. To learn more on respecting officials, visit: PlayPositive.com/ Pledge. Respect Officials