Hockey/Questions Answered by Expert Martial
| Subject | Date Asked |
| Pro Hockey Play | 1/26/2012 |
| Q: I am a Canuck fan who suggested the other day that the Canucks play bottom ranking teams soft as a ... A: .. That may appear so - but I don't believe it is always that intentional -- these are all ... | |
| Noise coming from skates when walking? | 1/23/2012 |
| Q: Recently purchased a pair of Bauer skates and in the last few days I have been hearing a 'crunching' ... A: .. it certainly is strange that it's only in one boot... sometimes you will get the "scrunching" ... | |
| Workout | 12/18/2011 |
| Q: Martial Can you critique this 'hockey conditioning' workout for me and offer any other suggestions? ... A: .. I hear ya! I just passed 50 a few years ago and alot of things are starting to head south!! ... | |
| hockey tryouts | 11/2/2011 |
| Q: I live in the Tampa Fl area I am 22 years old and I have been playing Ice Hockey for 8+ years plus ... A: Do you know Dave or Norm Beaudin from the Hockey Zone sports shops? They are cousin and uncle to me ... | |
| NHL Tryout contracts | 8/4/2011 |
| Q: Ray Emery is going to Chicago Blackhawks training camp on a tryout basis. Is there a "tryout ... A: .. This one could go either way!! He certainly has enough money to risk his time to make the team ... | |
| tryouts | 7/13/2011 |
| Q: Ive seen alot of questions on here for pro tryouts and what not like echl status. Now my question ... A: I hear what you are saying -- but unfortunately if you have been under the radar you still need to ... | |
| Jr Tryouts | 6/23/2011 |
| Q: Hey there, Ive been playing competitive hockey since I can remember, Ive always been the best on my ... A: You can look through this website (below) and or sign up for a camp... you might benefit from ... | |
| RE: Blisters | 5/28/2011 |
| Q: I have a pair of Bauer Supreme One60LE skates. I had them heat molded when I first got them and ... A: Have you tried changing the sole inserts? Obviously there is a loose area at the arch which creates ... | |
| Hockey tryouts | 5/27/2011 |
| Q: just wondering is there place a player can try out who is now 20 and born Oct-06-1990? He has played ... A: .. I agree with you... There is a ton of talent in your area ... And the boys are usually ... | |
| what to do? | 5/20/2011 |
| Q: I am 15 years old and i play in a small town right now and hoping to get into triple a hockey soon! ... A: Putting a weight or specific training program together is not exactly something that I do in ... | |
| what to do? | 5/6/2011 |
| Q: I am 15 years old and i play in a small town right now and hoping to get into triple a hockey soon! ... A: .. Not at all... this is probably a perfect time ... especially if you can get AAA midget ... | |
| Hitting the Post | 5/1/2011 |
| Q: I play in an adult, semi-competitive league. I have gotten totally psyched out from hitting the post ... A: ! It may or may not help you get away from hitting posts... but statistically it will increase ... | |
| Hitting the Post | 4/27/2011 |
| Q: I play in an adult, semi-competitive league. I have gotten totally psyched out from hitting the post ... A: This is a quirky situation indeed! I don't think I have ever heard anyone hitting this many posts!! ... | |
| starting ice hockey | 4/20/2011 |
| Q: I'm Joel. I am 16 years old, I've been playing inline hockey for about 6yrs and have gotten pretty ... A: While there will be a learning curve for you to deal with - I have found that those who stick with ... | |
| ice hockey | 4/10/2011 |
| Q: Hello, my name is Amit Solomon, 24 years old from Israel. This is to appeal for your consideration ... A: Sounds like you have alot to offer ... while I always believe that ANYTHING is possible, to be ... | |
| skates | 3/23/2011 |
| Q: hey i had a question about skates, i have old koho 2250's. There so old they dont even make them ... A: .. I'd say find a way to budget in new skates... Nothing is impossible and I've seen guys play at ... | |
| spring hockey | 2/23/2011 |
| Q: My son is 7 years old and just finished his 1st year novice(3rd year of hockey) and he had an ... A: In my personal opinion - if there are other sports your son would like to play -- then do that! ... | |
| Hockey Recruiter | 2/12/2011 |
| Q: My name is Irina.Apologies for my bad English. I from Russia.I the Hockey Recruiter of Wolf Hockey ... A: I would be happy to! Can you email me at no1hockey@aol.com with more info about your program and ... | |
| Scouts at College Games | 2/2/2011 |
| Q: I have a son who is a goaltender playing NCAA D3 hockey and is doing extrmely well. My question is ... A: Unfortunately D3 teams are not that popular to Scouts. Some may attend large high profile ... | |
| hockey penalties | 1/27/2011 |
| Q: It seems like a simple situation: this is Peewee 11-12 year olds - Canadian league Team A15 gets a ... A: The other team was right! If a goal is scored at EVEN STRENGTH (and 4 on 4 is still even) - then ... | |
| Cherrypicking | 1/22/2011 |
| Q: And one game during intermissions a 12 year old came up to me and called me a cherrypicker? so I ... A: .. A "cherry picker" is someone who does not come back in the defensive zone to help. They usually ... | |
| My chances | 1/19/2011 |
| Q: I'm going to be 20 in march and i just started getting into the game. I would like to know if there ... A: While "nothing is impossible" - the odds are definitely NOT in your favor. In fact I believe that ... | |
| goalie equipment | 1/16/2011 |
| Q: i am a hockey goalkeeper for my school and local club, at my club i have all the goalie equipment, ... A: Unless you can start purchasing some of your own - you will always be at the mercy of supply! Did ... | |
| Crossroads | 1/12/2011 |
| Q: Hello, my name is Michael Penokie and I'm a 21 (soon to be 22 year old) player from White Lake, MI. ... A: I totally understand where you are at. I was at that road when I turned 18. (about 30 years ago). ... | |
| ahl tryouts | 1/2/2011 |
| Q: .. I am playing junior hockey (not major), is it possible to be drafted and how ? is there some ... A: Yes... but you need to have a break out year ... somehow you must get noticed by the Scouts that ... | |
| try-out | 12/31/2010 |
| Q: martial I played triple-a hockey from 02-06 from 07-08 I played in the sr. chowder cup in ... A: I'm a big believer in ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE... so if you have the heart and LOVE the PROCESS to get ... | |
| tryouts | 12/29/2010 |
| Q: I'm 27 and always loved hockey, I just started on an adult league in Jackson, MI and wanted to know ... A: .. If you are looking for minor pro - there are several leagues you can look up -- SPHL ... | |
| hockey skates | 12/19/2010 |
| Q: My son is a bantam AA hockey player. It is mid season and his skates might be getting small. If he ... A: Unless the big toe is crunched up against the tip I would say the skate is still PERFECT in length! ... | |
| D zone strategies for forwards | 12/13/2010 |
| Q: our defense has been weakened by injury and are doing poorly what strategies can I use to utilize ... A: .. The simplest system to use and the most effective is to have your wingers play low. That is in ... | |
| Hockey | 12/11/2010 |
| Q: I have been playing ice and roller hockey for awhile and I was wondering how do I get scouted to ... A: .. The only way to get Scholarships with Colleges is to be playing at the highest D1 levels. ... | |
| NHL or Juniors | 12/5/2010 |
| Q: I just had a simple question. I have been playing ice hockey for 15 years now, the first team play I ... A: To be totally frank - the odds while not totally impossible - they are pretty much stacked totally ... | |
| Defending against "down-low" style teams | 11/29/2010 |
| Q: We missed my son's practice this morning - coach is understandably not impressed. The defense ... A: Great question! Thank you! Down low - refers to the location in an opponent's zone. Typically ... | |
| Defense | 11/23/2010 |
| Q: My son is now 9 years old and playing AAA hockey. He loves playing forward. He is a real two way ... A: I agree with you! At this age - regardless if it's AAA hockey - there should remain an element of ... | |
| what the coaches and scouts ask | 11/1/2010 |
| Q: Do the coaches care about anything but hockey ability and whether the kid hasn't been to jail and/or ... A: ! Different coaches will be looking for different things. One thing I have a common denominator ... | |
| Hockey | 10/23/2010 |
| Q: I'm currently 15 playing midget hockey and my dream is to one day play pro. My first question is I ... A: This shows that you are humble and willing to learn! A VERY good quality to have - not only for ... | |
| Stick Length | 10/15/2010 |
| Q: Martial Although I am only 5'7" I have always used a long stick. I have felt that the length gives ... A: Getting your skates properly rockered can surely help yes!! What they do is make the blade curved ... | |
| Stick Length | 10/14/2010 |
| Q: Martial Although I am only 5'7" I have always used a long stick. I have felt that the length gives ... A: I would have to say that your friend's coach is right! The wider stance - about shoulder width ... | |
| rankings | 10/4/2010 |
| Q: i have been using myhockeyrankings web site as a scheduling tool for years and as of the last few ... A: .. I am sorry to say I am not too familiar with myhockeyrankings... maybe they are experiencing ... | |
| Training | 9/28/2010 |
| Q: Guy A bunch of the guys at work are planning on playing hockey once a week as part of a company ... A: If you want to improve your cardio for hockey - while helping your hips, thighs and core and with ... | |
| Junior Hockey Position Switch | 9/9/2010 |
| Q: My 19 yr old son made a junior b hockey team after taking 2yrs off of hockey. His position has ... A: Sorry for delay in reply - seems that AllExperts has had some issues with delivering mail!! But I ... | |
| Right hand vs left handed | 8/30/2010 |
| Q: I am a left handed shot and my dominant hand is my right hand. My delima is that I dislocated my ... A: .. well according to my understanding - shooting left with your dominant hand benign right is the ... | |
| Pro Recruiting | 7/7/2010 |
| Q: I am a 24 year old Canadian Hockey player. I had the skill sot play Junior hockey but chose not to ... A: .. If you are looking for minor pro (IN US)- there are several leagues you can look up -- SPHL ... | |
| Goalies | 6/2/2010 |
| Q: my son is 11 years of age and has been goal tending since the age of 7. He plays AAA hockey and ... A: Loving to play the GAME is probably the first and most important key. The road to the NHL is NOT ... | |
| how to make it to nhl | 5/26/2010 |
| Q: Hey martial I was wondering what I have to do to make it to the nhl. I am 5'6 and weigh 164lbs. I am ... A: Good day Jag! This is YOUR time... if you want to make it to Pros - you need to be in the eye of ... | |
| tryout info | 5/21/2010 |
| Q: I'm a 25 year old goaltender from Philadelphia PA and would like nothing more than to make it ... A: .. I totally understand your situation! I am not sure which one you are referring to - but here is ... | |
| Joining a team | 4/26/2010 |
| Q: Ive played hockey back home in japan,however,when i came to Canada, i was injured during a power ... A: ! Yes you definitely need to join up with ANY junior hockey team -- you still have a couple years ... | |
| Summer Camps | 4/17/2010 |
| Q: I've been playing house for 7 years, and am now playing Bantam Tier II Mixed (I'd be a Bantam ... A: .. You can look up any hockey school camp that focuses on POWER SKATING. Like Laura Stamm or Dr. ... | |
| Tryouts | 4/3/2010 |
| Q: When do the minor league teams post their tryouts? Is it usually a month before? I've played since I ... A: .. that's about right.... though it may vary - and you should check often on their websites or try ... | |
| Links | 3/30/2010 |
| Q: Hey Martial I was just reading your post and i was wondering if there are any links you can send me ... A: I hope you had a good season! Most of the tryouts are typically in late summer... though some ... | |
| tryout Latvia | 3/25/2010 |
| Q: Martial! Hi! It Stan.Do you have received my letter? Do you have sent the information about tryout ... A: .. I did share your coordinates with my cousin and a few kids... I have to email each one at a ... | |
| Try Outs | 3/22/2010 |
| Q: I'm just wondering. Where do they do the try outs for the national Hockey League or for they're ... A: For the pros or their farm teams (AHL/ECHL) - it is usually by invitation. Now the farm teams for ... | |
| Junior or College Try-outs | 3/21/2010 |
| Q: Hey, I'm Byron i live in a small town in Hope B.C.,Canada and our town is a hockey town, thing is ... A: .. Many Junior teams and college teams will hold "open" tryouts. While they typically have a list ... | |
| crosstraining sports for hockey. | 3/19/2010 |
| Q: I have a question about other sports that have the most benefit for hockey players as a second ... A: .. Absolutely!! Any type of sport or exercise that involves working the "big" muscles and ... | |
| SPHL Goaltenting Tryouts | 3/12/2010 |
| Q: I have been playing goalie since i was a kid, unfortunately a concussion ended my Highschool career, ... A: .. Having had a head concussion already could put you in jeopardy with "pro contracts" as many are ... | |
| road to the pros | 3/5/2010 |
| Q: i live in mcallen texas i been playin hockey since i was 8. ive played a little bit of jr C, and ive ... A: Your best bet is to make a Div 1 school team if you can!! YES! You must make it and play well to ... | |
| road to the pros | 3/5/2010 |
| Q: i live in mcallen texas i been playin hockey since i was 8. ive played a little bit of jr C, and ive ... A: .. Maybe not an Agent - but getting scouted thru exposure is definitely a must... Unless you are ... | |
| Hockey tryouts in Europe | 3/5/2010 |
| Q: I am 21 years old and I have played junior b and junior a hockey. I am looking to play in Europe, ... A: .. If you are looking for minor pro (IN US)- there are several leagues you can look up -- SPHL ... | |
| road to the pros | 3/4/2010 |
| Q: i live in mcallen texas i been playin hockey since i was 8. ive played a little bit of jr C, and ive ... A: If you are looking for minor pro (IN US)- there are several leagues you can look up -- SPHL ... | |
| am i too old too start bak up and advance too make a career out of hockey one day??? | 2/24/2010 |
| Q: . i am 23 and live in brevard county florida.i played hockey in 1997 to 1998 when i was younger and ... A: ... To be realistic your odds are somewhat against you if you have not already played some junior ... | |
| Hockey | 2/16/2010 |
| Q: I am 20 years old and I still believe I have a shot at playing semi-pro hockey. Is it possible to ... A: .. I'm not sure that there is very much in the way of semi pro in the Montreal area... you may ... | |
| I'm old but want to play semi-pro hockey...help please! | 2/16/2010 |
| Q: I am a 25 year old from southern ontario canada. Growing up I played AAA but once I finished my ... A: .. I'm not sure that there is very much in the way of semi pro in the TO area... you may have to ... | |
| Minor Pro Help | 2/9/2010 |
| Q: Hey Martial, I've been reading some great responses and hope you can help! Near Metro Louisville ... A: .. I don't really have any personal contacts in your area... you best bet may be to send them your ... | |
| Abdonimals | 2/9/2010 |
| Q: Since your Abs are important in hockey I was wondering if you could give me some routines to do ... A: ! Yes ABs are an important muscle group for hockey - but not independent of ALL your core muscles, ... | |
| Getting into a minor try ou | 2/9/2010 |
| Q: I am 21 years old, I read a question someone asked about getting into a try out and possible links ... A: Most of the tryouts are typically in late summer... though some leagues will run some screening ... | |
| goalie | 2/6/2010 |
| Q: how to increase reaction time my life my blood my each atom is for goalkeeping i can do anything for ... A: .. A great set of drill/exercises for any hockey player including goalies are those involving ... | |
| Try-outs | 2/5/2010 |
| Q: Hey Martial, I have watched hockey since the Colorado Avalanche came to Colorado. Because they came ... A: .. Most of the tryouts are typically in late summer... though some leagues will run some screening ... | |
| hockey | 1/30/2010 |
| Q: hi i was wondering if u can try out for any AHL teams or what teams i could join to help try to get ... A: .. The AHL is considered probably the 2nd best league in North America just below the NHL... it's ... | |
| Alcohol/Beer | 1/28/2010 |
| Q: Martial Might be a bit unorthodox but hoping you have an opinion.Does alcohol 'slow down your ... A: Great question!! I am no nutrition expert but I can share my experience and observations!! It's ... | |
| A different Hockey camp | 1/22/2010 |
| Q: age 15. I really want to take my game to the next level. I belive going to a summer camp is a good ... A: Here is a great Teacher ... And if you can make it to one of his camps - he will offer you stuff ... | |
| Cross overs | 1/18/2010 |
| Q: I haven't played hockey in about 10 years now, and recently took up power skating to get back into ... A: Explaining the crossover can be a little tricky without demonstration... Here are some basic ... | |
| Practice great plays slow... | 1/16/2010 |
| Q: My 6 year old son plays rep level hockey. He is one of the best skater on his team, practices very ... A: Sure have! Like anything - every child is different! Some will be Hockey Savvy, skilled with less ... | |
| Practice great plays slow... | 1/15/2010 |
| Q: My 6 year old son plays rep level hockey. He is one of the best skater on his team, practices very ... A: .. My initial impression to this question is that your son is shy/timid/afraid of possibly 2 ... | |
| Encouragement | 1/13/2010 |
| Q: My daughter is 10 years old and has been playing hockey for a little over three years. She has ... A: ! I TOTALLY feel what you are experiencing! Often "good" kids will find themselves in these types ... | |
| stopping problem | 1/7/2010 |
| Q: I have skated 9-10 years, till 2004-2005 when i stopped (don't really remember why) and later sold ... A: .. I understand... an experienced sharpener could probably tell by looking at it... Unfortunately ... | |
| stopping problem | 1/6/2010 |
| Q: I have skated 9-10 years, till 2004-2005 when i stopped (don't really remember why) and later sold ... A: Well my first guess would be that yes it has to do with your sharpening! -- You may have too deep ... | |
| I'm starting to play hockey at the age of twenty; what are the chances of ever playing in the minor leagues? | 1/1/2010 |
| Q: I have always wanted to play hockey, but up until this year my life has been overtaken by football. ... A: .. I am never one to say that something is IMPOSSIBLE... If you REALLY REALLY REALLY want - I ... | |
| hockey | 12/23/2009 |
| Q: How do you make the WHL? A: .. To make any team - requires the usual package of skill, heart and hard work!? And these from ... | |
| Self-Rotating Ice Skates Problem | 12/21/2009 |
| Q: I just bought a new pair of skates,which is size 39 (I wear 40 in sport shoes), and it my second ... A: .. Are you referring to ICE skates or roller blade type skates? And when you say you "stand on my ... | |
| line changes | 12/13/2009 |
| Q: i am new to coaching and have a question. what is the general rule of thumb when changing lines ... A: .. it's basically the same as during regular play - except the replacement player of the penalized ... | |
| Skates | 12/12/2009 |
| Q: Martial, I am a guy in his fifties. I played rec. hockey up until my 40's but decided to retire. I ... A: Hey Terry!! Welcome back! And, as a brother in the League of 50+ - I hear ya loud and clear! I ... | |
| 17 yr old beginner/Where to play?? | 12/9/2009 |
| Q: I'm a 17 yr old girl and I have been playing hockey for only 7 months or so. I learned to play ... A: Keep asking - if you want it - you will find someone!! Depending on where you are - Women College ... | |
| Competitive play | 12/8/2009 |
| Q: Martial, my question is kind of frustrating to me. I have a 1st year squirt 9yrs old. This is his ... A: ... Good morning Jeff... I can certainly empathize with what you are experiencing. Without ... | |
| 17 yr old beginner/Where to play?? | 12/8/2009 |
| Q: I'm a 17 yr old girl and I have been playing hockey for only 7 months or so. I learned to play ... A: .. Wow - it's great that you were able to fall in love with hockey while in Germany!! That's ... | |
| hockey tryouts | 12/4/2009 |
| Q: hey martial i have a ? i just turned 23 ive been playin hockey since i was 3..when i was old enough ... A: .. The only site i know of at this time of year that may be able to guide you along is this one: ... | |
| Never Played Hockey Before | 11/30/2009 |
| Q: I want to start playing hockey, but the thing is, I've never played before, let alone been ice ... A: Welcome to the great game of Hockey ... it is indeed a fantastic game. I would suggest you ... | |
| knee bend in 6 year old | 11/16/2009 |
| Q: My 6 year old son has been skating for just a year. He never did lessons he went right into hockey. ... A: Great question! You may have a future star on your hands eh? It will be very important he gets a ... | |
| begining hockey | 11/13/2009 |
| Q: I am 12 and i am gonna start playing hockey. ther is a lern to play class at a local roller rink. ... A: .. To start out with hockey - you really don't need anything fancy or expensive. What you could ... | |
| coaches taking slap shots at players | 11/10/2009 |
| Q: What's your view on coaches (full grown males) taking full force slap shots on goalies at the PeeWee ... A: you would think you could eh? - I searched their site a bit and could not find any "easy" contact ... | |
| coaches taking slap shots at players | 11/10/2009 |
| Q: What's your view on coaches (full grown males) taking full force slap shots on goalies at the PeeWee ... A: .. In my opinion, I certainly agree with you in that I DO NOT feel it is right! Unless the player ... | |
| ccm skates | 11/5/2009 |
| Q: i just purchase a pair of ccm vector u+pro skates. I want to bake them but do not know the length of ... A: .. It should be the same as any other skate... I hear that they may take a couple bakings to get ... | |
| recreational skates? | 11/4/2009 |
| Q: Martial I hope you can answer a question about skates. Up until a few years ago I played rec. ... A: My first impression on those skates is that they are made for "just skating around" - like at public ... | |
| hockey stop. plz help! | 10/28/2009 |
| Q: i started playing hockey about two years ago, and coaches say my skating and stance is outstanding, ... A: .. Do you play roller hockey? This turning stop style could come from that!! Regardless... here ... | |
| shots | 10/22/2009 |
| Q: My question is if my 11 year old son wants to improve his shot in the garage. Is putting a little ... A: .. I would have to say YES! It's one thing to build confidence by shooting from up close - but we ... | |
| An observation | 10/15/2009 |
| Q: Martial I am interested in what you do to keep in shape. I am a 50 year old guy, weekend jock, ... A: Hey Bud!! LOL! I just turned 50 this year also!! It doesn't get easier eh? Just staying active ... | |
| development | 10/13/2009 |
| Q: my question is, for a 10 year old boy, to keep him playing at a decent caliber of hockey, should ... A: Great question! Actually if your son is having FUN and is not getting "beat" too much during those ... | |
| Too heavy to play? | 10/6/2009 |
| Q: My husband did not play organised hockey as a kid but he can skate OK and hit a puck,etc. He has ... A: Great question!! Thank you! All the best doctors are advising senior (hockey) players - you can't ... | |
| Hockey | 9/18/2009 |
| Q: I'm writng to you in regards to my 10 year old son. My son has played on a community hockey team for ... A: If I were "running" the show - size would not matter... Hockey in it's purest form of PLAY is about ... | |
| Ice Hockey | 9/2/2009 |
| Q: I can stop alright on one side but I can't stop on my other which must be my weak slide. I don't ... A: .. Thank you for your question. Best thing would be take it ALL from the "TOP" - and work both ... | |
| Hockey | 8/23/2009 |
| Q: What are some good techniques to work with beginner aged hockey players as a teenage coach? A: .. #1. KEEP IT FUN - if they are enjoying their time they will learn faster, remember more and come ... | |
| Mite Shooting Practice | 8/21/2009 |
| Q: I am setting up a hockey area in the basement for my son, he is starting his 3rd year of mite ... A: .. As a mite - your first objective is for him to HAVE FUN!! So you want him to "succeed" - hit ... | |
| Getting Back Into Shape | 8/11/2009 |
| Q: I'm 16 years old and have just finished my most disappointing season ever. I went from 2nd line of a ... A: .. I hear ya my friend. As great a game it is - it can sure be disappointing at times. But ... | |
| Panicking while playing hockey | 7/31/2009 |
| Q: But when ever i play any type of hockey i always seem to panic and make bad decisions with the puck ... A: .. Well first things first - relax.... you are not alone!! This happens - even to the best! It ... | |
| Tollerances | 7/25/2009 |
| Q: I decided to buy a truly recommended skate and from their website it looked as if they were made to ... A: While I have never seen a "fix" on a skate with shims - I have seen it my moving the blade holder ... | |
| Backwards Crossovers | 7/24/2009 |
| Q: I have mastered forwards crossovers and now I want to do them backwards. I've tried but I can't do ... A: Just to make sure you have the fundamentals right ... here is a basic explanation for backward ... | |
| Tollerances "normal alignment" from the manufacturer | 7/24/2009 |
| Q: I decided to buy a truly recommended skate and from their website it looked as if they were made to ... A: .. Unfortunately I do not know what the manufacturer's tolerances are for skate manufacturing. ... | |
| Handedness | 7/12/2009 |
| Q: What determines handedness in hockey (the way a person shoots?) Ovechkin signs autographs with his ... A: There is GENERALLY no one particular thing... as you can see - great players can shoot either way ... | |
| Clarifications | 7/3/2009 |
| Q: I'm Jacob. I need Clarification on numbers 2 and 3 which are 2. In forward skating only, feet must ... A: 2. What this is trying to say is that often times skaters do not consciously bring their forward ... | |
| When is good time to begin hockey? | 7/1/2009 |
| Q: I've heard most of the hockey players start skating when they are four or younger. My son will turn ... A: .. I am a firm believer that it is never too late to start playing hockey. If there is love of the ... | |
| Hockey Season Preparation | 6/30/2009 |
| Q: I am about a month and a half until tryouts for my hockey team start. I was wondering what excerises ... A: Putting a weight or specific training program together is not exactly something that I do in ... | |
| Hockey | 6/29/2009 |
| Q: I am 16 years old and going into my junior year. im about 6 feet 170 lbs. and i am having so much ... A: .. unfortunately writing up workout plans is not my forte. But I can tell you that a good mix of ... | |
| ECHL, CHL, IHL etc. | 6/26/2009 |
| Q: I am currently 23 years old and have been playing ice hockey since I was eight. I have not played ... A: .. Well it's not easy to just step in "above" the many many players who have "followed" the herd - ... | |
| how well is the pay for minor pro teams | 6/25/2009 |
| Q: my stats from this past season i had a split season in Schreiber Ont,of the SIJHL and Onion Lake,Sk ... A: .. Pro can allow you to earn a decent living, that's for sure. If you don't have something else to ... | |
| open tryouts | 6/18/2009 |
| Q: I read a question that you answered for a fellow named Michael and I feel the same as he does. ... A: .. The best way would be to try to make some direct contacts with some agent types and or scouts... ... | |
| Running and hockey | 6/17/2009 |
| Q: and I will do any thing to get better and move on to the next level. I have a couple questions ... A: For now - this running is quite good actually - not too long and not too short - good for stamina - ... | |
| Have a question about Goalies | 6/15/2009 |
| Q: How are you? I have a friend who i really think can make it pro or at least in minors..how do i go ... A: .. Your best bet would be to try to get him to this camp... it would be the easiest and quickest ... | |
| youth stick | 5/27/2009 |
| Q: I am an assistant Roller hockey coach. My son is 11 yrs old and uses a youth bauer xxxx stick. the ... A: Your son is right at about the age one might start to consider going to a bit bigger stick yes... ... | |
| cluster checking | 5/21/2009 |
| Q: Can you explain the term cluster checking, which i read und on coachingboard. perhaps it is ... A: .. Hmmm i have never really heard this term before - at least not for intentionally playing or ... | |
| 9 year olds and positional play | 4/20/2009 |
| Q: I am a coach with a 9 year old AAA spring hockey team. This is a team of kids assembled for a 10 ... A: .. The first thing we must remember as coaches is we MUST MAKE IT FUN! No fun - no "game".... ... | |
| What do I need for Jr B or Major Midget? | 4/19/2009 |
| Q: I am a 6'0 160 pound defenseman. This past year was my first playing rep after playing recreational ... A: .. Of course ANYTHING is possible for the most part. However this question will depend alot on ... | |
| Sharp Turns | 4/18/2009 |
| Q: I'm sorry for all these questions! I have one more. I have no idea how people do those really sharp ... A: No problem... this is what I "do"... I love this game, it served me well, and love to give back as ... | |
| Stops | 4/18/2009 |
| Q: I didn't realize how good the answers on here were so I have a question about the hockey stop. I use ... A: .. The first thing you need to do is RELAX and work on your CONFIDENCE. The big key here (as with ... | |
| Skates | 4/15/2009 |
| Q: I'm just beggining hockey. I got a pair of Bauer ice skates for hockey. I had a pair of used ones so ... A: .. Yes you can rub them against the plastic of the bench - but it would be even better if you used ... | |
| Is that true? | 4/12/2009 |
| Q: i know you are a hockey guy there, i actually dont play hockey in a league i just play with friends. ... A: .. As a general rule - this is about right... depending how "hard" you are pushing your self, and ... | |
| Way Too Old????? | 4/10/2009 |
| Q: OK Believe it or not, I am 31 and just got into inline hockey! I have never played a sport in my ... A: Good day William... I for one will say that it is never too late and you are never too old. As ... | |
| Motivating 8 year old boy in hockey | 4/7/2009 |
| Q: My 8 yr old son is a good hockey player yet often lacks moivation. This past season he made the ... A: Good morning Jeff... Have you asked your son - exactly what HE really really wants? Obviously he ... | |
| Son playing hockey | 4/6/2009 |
| Q: my son, who is five, has become a hockey nut! He loves to skate and play hockey. I currently get ... A: This is Great! Welcome to the family!! ;-) I may be biased but it is a fantastic sport to love! ... | |
| Hockey and cardio (bike) | 4/5/2009 |
| Q: i read some of your answers, u impress me, and i would appreciate if you answer mine :) . Im a ... A: .. Putting a weight or specific training program together is not exactly something that I do in ... | |
| Where to play?? | 3/30/2009 |
| Q: My son has been playing AAA for the past 2 years in a city near where we live. Next season he will ... A: Great question and your son is very fortunate that you care enough to reach out and think through ... | |
| forward weight lifting program | 3/26/2009 |
| Q: I was Wondering if you knew of a good weight lifting program for forwards age 15-18. i am looking ... A: .. Sorry I can't help you much on this one... While I have understanding in general fitness ... | |
| agents | 3/24/2009 |
| Q: hey my name is cory we have talked before, ive heard you mention that to get into ahl tryouts you ... A: For that particular camp no - and you could actually make a "good story"!! One never really knows ... | |
| agents | 3/24/2009 |
| Q: hey my name is cory we have talked before, ive heard you mention that to get into ahl tryouts you ... A: Actually your best bet would be to GET A TRACK RECORD... play some junior hockey. Get on ANY team ... | |
| agents | 3/24/2009 |
| Q: hey my name is cory we have talked before, ive heard you mention that to get into ahl tryouts you ... A: Great find! While it may not get you INTO the AHL ... it will allow you to be EXPOSED to the guys ... | |
| Conditioning for the upcoming season | 3/17/2009 |
| Q: Right now its near the end of my season and for summer hockey Im looking to up my ... A: I am no fitness guru by any means... From what you are saying and based on experience you are ... | |
| squirt player who gets hunted... | 3/11/2009 |
| Q: my son is a squirt player. He is very small but fast, with good vision and good stickhandling. In a ... A: .. I really feel your concerns... I've been there before... did my part to put a small dent and ... | |
| CCM V10 | 3/8/2009 |
| Q: I have been having the same problem with my CCMV10 skates. I have severe discomfort inside my right ... A: .. That is very curious situation you have... I tried to do some research but could not come up ... | |
| Next Level | 3/3/2009 |
| Q: Hey Martial I have a question about getting to the next level. I am a 13 year old (turning 14 in ... A: .. Unfortunately I am not too familiar with the various Junior Leagues in Ontario... Did you ... | |
| Next Level | 2/28/2009 |
| Q: Hey Martial I have a question about getting to the next level. I am a 13 year old (turning 14 in ... A: .. My gut feeling is saying go at it "slow and sure"... Your first step is to play the highest ... | |
| Phil Housley | 2/25/2009 |
| Q: I have been searching for information regarding the last NHL player to skate a full game, meaning: ... A: .. Except for goalies of course, I have never heard of any NHL player playing a full 60 Minutes of ... | |
| Knee Injury | 2/20/2009 |
| Q: I played drop in Hockey in a place in Pennsylvania, and toward the end the ice got pretty choppy. I ... A: .. I am no doctor - but from experience it appears you may have aggravated some ligaments ... not ... | |
| Tryouts | 2/18/2009 |
| Q: Hey Martial. I am 20 years old and I have been playing hockey ever since I can remember. Playing on ... A: .. It seems there there are a few guys who'd like to "get back in the game"!! I'm a big believer ... | |
| Open tryouts infos | 2/18/2009 |
| Q: Martial my name is Samuel. I'm from Quebec, Canada and i'm 20 years old (1988/26/12). I've been ... A: Most of the tryouts are typically in late summer... though some leagues will run some screening ... | |
| re: lie | 2/12/2009 |
| Q: i heard some guys on my team talking about "lie" of the stick . . . what exactly is that? A: The Lie represents the angle of the blade at the base of the shift. The higher the lie the less of ... | |
| Stick length | 2/7/2009 |
| Q: I've played recreational hockey for a few years and am now upgrading to the one-piece composite ... A: There is variability for personal preference... The "average" being your stick should come to the ... | |
| Defenseman stick | 2/3/2009 |
| Q: What type of stick is best for a 6' 200 lb defenseman. My son play's AAA travel and is on the ... A: Flex is a pretty personal thing.... though "bigger" players often end up with a stiffer stick, and ... | |
| Defenseman stick | 2/3/2009 |
| Q: What type of stick is best for a 6' 200 lb defenseman. My son play's AAA travel and is on the ... A: .. Unfortunately there are sooooo many varieties now with so many options - it really becomes a ... | |
| Peewee player - hockey stick flex | 2/2/2009 |
| Q: My son uses a one-piece CCM Vector VSE OPS orange stick. It is labeled 20kp Junior Flex 50. His ... A: .. Coach must have seen a little "too much" flex from your son's shots. So this could be ... | |
| career in USA | 1/31/2009 |
| Q: My name is Stanislav. I am Russian. I play the second season the Junior "В" in USA.I am 19 ... A: .. Unfortunately I do not have any personal contacts with US agents per se. Here are some links to ... | |
| Hockey "PLUS/MINUS" stat | 1/29/2009 |
| Q: At what level, what age does plus/minus stat become a relevant stat or tool to use as a coach? A: .. This is always a "fun" stat to play with, as the kids can easily be motivated by this - even if ... | |
| Hoping It's Not To Late ! | 1/26/2009 |
| Q: Hey I'm a 24 year old hockey player, that hasn't been able to play competitively for a while now. ... A: I am never one to say things are impossible - though some things certainly are lower percentage. ... | |
| equipement | 1/23/2009 |
| Q: you know the sock that you wear over the shin protectors? Yeah I don't know how to tape it on! i ... A: Good Day! There are a couple different ways to tape up the shin pads. THE MOST COMMON WAY is do ... | |
| Mental funk | 1/15/2009 |
| Q: I'm 35 playing in a adult hockey leagues B division. I played a couple of years housleague as a kid ... A: Hey Joe!! I totally understand your feeling - I been there and done that! You are right on track ... | |
| icing | 1/13/2009 |
| Q: i've been watching hockey and always stop play because of icing.What is exactly icing? srry to ask ... A: Icing is when one team sends the puck down the entire length of ice without anyone else touching it. ... | |
| Hockey Tips/ Future | 1/12/2009 |
| Q: I am 16.5 years old and am playing for a Midget AA team in Vancouver, BC. I am around 6'1 155 but ... A: .. Sounds like you have lots of promise! And you seem to LOVE the game too! Perfect! The bikes ... | |
| bench system | 1/10/2009 |
| Q: When play is on and your suppose to go on the bench is it the whole lane that gets off the ice or is ... A: Not necessarily. Most coaches will prefer the whole line does change "together" - but sometimes - ... | |
| stride lengthening drills/exercises | 1/10/2009 |
| Q: Would you have some suggestions on drills and exercises that we could use to help lengthen my ... A: Good Stuff Joe... YES - if you can work on a skating treadmill - i.e. Frappier Acceleration ... ... | |
| hockey-had to make a new message | 1/9/2009 |
| Q: i understand and yea i have 2 jobs right now and a also go too school so that shouldnt be a ... A: .. That can vary quite a bit from team to team - depending how far they have to travel and what ... | |
| juniors | 1/9/2009 |
| Q: hey martial my name is cory and I was wondering if you could help me out. I plan on trying out for ... A: Well most Jr. teams will require that you be attending school for a minimum number of hours when not ... | |
| juniors | 1/9/2009 |
| Q: hey martial my name is cory and I was wondering if you could help me out. I plan on trying out for ... A: Hey Cory, While I don't have any contacts with these teams specifically - my experience has been ... | |
| lacing youth hockey skates | 1/6/2009 |
| Q: I have 3 boys(triplets) playing in mites. I have read your comments regarding lacing skates. Could ... A: .. God Bless you -- 3 boys - all at once! WOW! The coach is "technically right". Wrapping can ... | |
| snowplow stop | 1/4/2009 |
| Q: i have been playing hockey for a couple months now and am still not stopping. i have a question ... A: .. Keep up with the "effort" and tries... it sounds like you are close - you may just need to ... | |
| Improvement | 12/30/2008 |
| Q: I have played hockey since i was about 5. I am now a sophmore on my high school hockey team. i wnwas ... A: .. Besides doing a regular strength and conditioning program you can maybe also look into ... | |
| Skills Stick and Skates | 12/28/2008 |
| Q: Hey, my name's Bill. I'm in my late 20's playing in an elite adult ICE league. I started playing @ ... A: .. 1. Sticks are very personal in terms of choice, etc. Though I do know that the Coffee curve is ... | |
| to late to start? | 12/26/2008 |
| Q: I am 16 years old and am just starting to pick up skating again, next year will be my senior year in ... A: .. While I am not a very big believer that much is impossible, some things can be more difficult. ... | |
| increasing speed | 12/26/2008 |
| Q: I've got a little brother who is 13 years-old and is currently mid-way through his first season in a ... A: at this age - you are best to focus on technique first... adding strength and conditioning training ... | |
| re: faceoffs | 12/23/2008 |
| Q: i'm an adult hockey who just took up the game 4 years ago. My team plays in C division. I can handle ... A: A couple quick tips that can help you increase your "wins" immediately are: 1. Be "ready" - with an ... | |
| When is it too late? | 12/21/2008 |
| Q: Martial, How are you? I just want to say that I think it is great that you are helping everyone ... A: .. While I am a huge advocate for ANYTHING is possible - of course some things will nonetheless ... | |
| Pre-Game Speech | 3/19/2008 |
| Q: I am a head coach of a Bantam team. My pre-game speeches tend to focus on what we as a team need to ... A: .. A good pre game speech must be tailored to "where" the team is at (from recent practice plans), ... | |
| Tryout information | 2/9/2008 |
| Q: I'm currently 23 years old and i have been playing hockey for over 13 years. I have been out of ... A: Most of the tryouts are typically in late summer... though some leagues will run some screening ... | |
| What and where should i go??? | 2/7/2008 |
| Q: .. i am 16 years old... i'm from neepawa,mb,canada. I play goalie and forward... i still havent made ... A: .. The best thing for you to do would be to join a midget or Junior hockey team. You may have to ... | |
| slapshot | 1/30/2008 |
| Q: a couple of nights ago, guys in the locker room were discussing the all star game slapshot ... A: .. your theory is a very good one. With the new composite sticks that are available and more ... | |
| scouting bantam players | 1/28/2008 |
| Q: I have some questions regarding the bantam draft in Canada. When to the scouts start talking to the ... A: .. Unfortunately my exposure to the Canadian process is limited. I do know Scouts can start ... | |
| Neutral Zone Trap | 1/22/2008 |
| Q: I'm a captain on a men's team in a no fight/no check league. We aren't the fastest team but have ... A: .. while this is by no means a very FUN system to play -- (really can slow game down - and does not ... | |
| Minor League Hockey | 1/17/2008 |
| Q: I am 21 years old and have just recently begun playing competitively again. I played Junior B hockey ... A: .. I am a big believer in "Anything is possible my friend!" If you are looking for minor pro (IN ... | |
| Youth coaching | 1/16/2008 |
| Q: I've been coaching 3-7 year old beginners for the the past 2 years and I've become very frustrated ... A: .. Ahhh these kids can be fantastic for sure... Usually the "problem" is one or two kids -- I ... | |
| NHL | 1/15/2008 |
| Q: Ive been told to ask you concerning this question. I have just recently gotten into hockey. IM 16 ... A: Hey Eric... now i don't want to give you any false hopes either. Starting this late - you will ... | |
| NHL | 1/13/2008 |
| Q: Ive been told to ask you concerning this question. I have just recently gotten into hockey. IM 16 ... A: I am never one to say that something is IMPOSSIBLE... If you REALLY REALLY REALLY want - I believe ... | |
| Too old? | 1/5/2008 |
| Q: I'm 23 and live in southern california. I've never really skated (and honestly I can't actually ... A: Ho Josh! Absolutely not! There are surprisingly alot of guys who are picking up hockey -- even in ... | |
| Ankle/peroneal tendon inflamation | 1/2/2008 |
| Q: Martial, I have been skating on a new pair of skates for almost 1 year without any pain. I'm in ... A: Hey Rich... I am told there are two things that NEVER stop growing on our bodies... our ears and ... | |
| hockey and training | 12/31/2007 |
| Q: I am going on my 5th hockey season and currently play for Gilmour Academy. I am a goalie. I workout ... A: A great set of drill/exercises for any hockey player including goalies are those involving ... | |
| THE NEXT STEP | 12/28/2007 |
| Q: Hey how are you, i read your passage and felt that maybe you can help me along. I am 24 years old, I ... A: You are too old for Junior Hockey... but you may be able to give it a shot at the lower semi pro ... | |
| Tryouts for Goalies--SPHL | 12/27/2007 |
| Q: Martial, I have been reading through all the questions and answers from the people who are ... A: .. Goalies seem to be in abundance these days... with the star status of the Roys, Brodeurs and ... | |
| try outs | 12/27/2007 |
| Q: Can you help me find open try outs for any teams.I'm 21 now with no colleage,any info would help. ... A: As far as I know there are no tryouts going on at this time. All teams and leagues are in full ... | |
| summer hockey | 12/19/2007 |
| Q: I was so impressed with you last response, I thought I would ask another question. Again I have a ... A: .. In my experience the better hockey players are usually good OVERALL athletes. They can play ... | |
| Brother | 12/18/2007 |
| Q: I have been looking on here hoping to find something to help my brother. He didn't want to seem dumb ... A: How old is he? Has he been skating at all? AS you can read from all the posts - there is alot to ... | |
| How much is too much? | 12/12/2007 |
| Q: Our 5-year-old son is playing hockey for the first time this year (he has taken skating for over a ... A: .. Yes this is "too much"... The object is suppose to be FUN. When it starts feeling like work -- ... | |
| mite motivation | 12/10/2007 |
| Q: I know Let him have fun will be part of the answer. My son is in mites (1st year) and plays hard ... A: It is still quite early to worry ... remember it is just a game. That said it is an opportunity ... | |
| son wants to be a goalie | 12/10/2007 |
| Q: My son wants to be the goalie for his mite team.I was wondering at what age i need to worry about ... A: .. Depends how "serious" you want to be -- if you think this is permanent - sooner is better - for ... | |
| interested in playing ice hockey | 12/6/2007 |
| Q: I use to play roller hockey in high school and have always wanted to play ice hockey but never had ... A: Hey Rich... If you haven't been playing TOO long - it shouldn't take you too much time... they say ... | |
| New to Hockey | 12/5/2007 |
| Q: I've been a hockey fan since I was a kid, but I've just now decided to learn to play. I'm 25 years ... A: .. Welcome to the hockey family ... it's a fantastic fraternity that will bring you great fun and ... | |
| New skater | 12/4/2007 |
| Q: I have been fascinated with hockey since I was very small. Unfortunately, I live in Kansas City ... A: Hey Ryan... Yup you are correct on that-- I forgot about the Nike - Bauer buy out ... hard to keep ... | |
| New skater | 12/4/2007 |
| Q: I have been fascinated with hockey since I was very small. Unfortunately, I live in Kansas City ... A: .. Unless you decide to play 4-5 times a week and need for your skates to "last" ... you really ... | |
| re:5 year old beg skater | 12/3/2007 |
| Q: My son has been in a learn to skate program for 11/2 years. He just tried out for a midget travel ... A: .. It's NEVER too late. At this age it SHOULD be FIRST AND FOREMOST about FUN and laughter... ... | |
| Standard Terms and Breakout Drills | 11/28/2007 |
| Q: Martial, I've been coaching house league for several years; however, this is the first year I'm ... A: .. Actually there is not "one" set standard for terminology. Most coaches will adopt and tailor ... | |
| next level | 11/28/2007 |
| Q: I read what you had to say about checking into minor pro leagues for tryouts, which I will. I love ... A: There are now many Men's Hockey schools, clinics and tournaments you can register for and play in. ... | |
| Just Starting | 11/27/2007 |
| Q: I'm about to start playing pick up hockey with some friends of mine. So I've been searching online ... A: .. Most hockey pants come built in with the "girdle" padding. So no if you get a full hockey pant ... | |
| ice skates | 11/24/2007 |
| Q: I skating fine 2 times this week and today for some reason my foot was looser in the boot then ... A: Cory... It can be a couple things. Different socks. Different lace tightening... too tight vs too ... | |
| pulling together a losing Pee Wee team | 11/24/2007 |
| Q: Obviously they're all unique, with only one who is genuinely out of control and disruptive. He has ... A: COMMUNICATION is KEY!... and know this -- for kids this age (and for some of their parents) - you ... | |
| Stops | 11/20/2007 |
| Q: My name is Mike, i'm 25 years old and got a late jump on the world of hockey. I started to play ... A: Mike... Well if you have "skating backwards" and forward stopping down - stopping backwards should ... | |
| Developing offensive defenceman | 11/17/2007 |
| Q: The question is regarding my 16-year old brother, who plays defense for a Midget AAA team. He is ... A: .. It's pretty cool you watching out for your brother like this! I think you nailed it when you ... | |
| Stops | 11/12/2007 |
| Q: My name is Mike, i'm 25 years old and got a late jump on the world of hockey. I started to play ... A: Stopping while going backwards is dependent on the ability to actually skate technically correct ... | |
| motivating 9 year olds | 11/6/2007 |
| Q: i understand you answer however, would you clarify reprimands are you suggesting. lost ice time ... A: .. I hear you loud and clear. It's not as easy as it may sound eh? The BIG key is one has to ... | |
| Stops | 11/3/2007 |
| Q: My name is Mike, i'm 25 years old and got a late jump on the world of hockey. I started to play ... A: .. The first thing you need to do is RELAX and work on your CONFIDENCE. The big key here (as with ... | |
| hockey tactics | 10/31/2007 |
| Q: What are the main tactics used in hockey? Merci A: .. This is a very BROAD question. What specifically do you want to know? The game itself simply ... | |
| Varsity Hockey Tryouts | 10/30/2007 |
| Q: My 15 yr old son is 5'6" and approx 125 lbs, not big for his age. He is a fairly decent player and ... A: Without knowing your son's personal goals, passions etc. it can be hard to give the "right" ... | |
| Power skating problem | 10/27/2007 |
| Q: I am a female hockey player, and I am a very good skater, but I feel like one thing that is holding ... A: .. Sorry for delay in reply ... I just lost my dad after a 27 day COMA... It's been quite the ... | |
| Power skating problem | 10/25/2007 |
| Q: I am a female hockey player, and I am a very good skater, but I feel like one thing that is holding ... A: The pleasure is mine. When you are in a regular hockey stance - at stand still, as you bend your ... | |
| Powerplay breakout | 10/23/2007 |
| Q: I’m looking at altering the power play breakout. Currently it’s pretty standard, where D1 has the ... A: A good way to add some speed here would be to loop your centreman down low and actually have him ... | |
| Power skating problem | 10/23/2007 |
| Q: I am a female hockey player, and I am a very good skater, but I feel like one thing that is holding ... A: You are on the right path... there may be a few things you could do that could help... Here is my ... | |
| is there a way and should i try to play hockey | 10/22/2007 |
| Q: Can I get back into hockey at my size, and if so what should I play? 5'9 178lbs A: .. Size is really only a matter of the mind... if you don't mind it don't matter. My son is 5'-8" ... | |
| training bands | 10/19/2007 |
| Q: I am intrigued by the training bands I saw in a store-the kind that hook around your ankles. Are ... A: .. Like ANY training too - the effectiveness of it is directly proportional to how much you believe ... | |
| Killing Penelties | 10/18/2007 |
| Q: I was wondering what the best tactics were for defending against a team that implements the an ... A: .. THE BEST PK tactic is having your 4 hardest working most relentless guys out there... no matter ... | |
| Shooting off the back foot | 10/12/2007 |
| Q: Martial, I'm working with a Travel Midget team. I've noticed at least two decent players almost ... A: ... I totally agree with you. While that one shot may be effective for certain situations - to ... | |
| Pro Hockey Try-outs Follow-up Question | 10/12/2007 |
| Q: Martial, This is a follow-up to a question in May 06 from a 22 yr old looking to break into the ... A: With your situation it surely could be a hard route for you... The KEY for you will be for you to ... | |
| ice hockey skates | 10/8/2007 |
| Q: i want to buy my boyfriend a pair of ice hockey skates for christmas. which are the best brands to ... A: There are quite a few brands, and within those brands quite a few model of skates to pick from, with ... | |
| sharp tight turns | 10/1/2007 |
| Q: martial i need help with sharp turns. i would appreciate the help thanks. ... A: .. Of course being able to make good sharp turns means you must have your general skating strides ... | |
| Skating question | 9/28/2007 |
| Q: First off, I'd like to thank you for answering my question. I've been playing hockey since I was ... A: Good morning Zahir... What you are experiencing is pretty normal!!! We all have a DOMINANT or ... | |
| getting noticed | 9/27/2007 |
| Q: Ive been playing and practicing alot and my skills have really gotten good. I do think I have the ... A: .. The best way is to play for the BEST team that you can ... if you can play Juniors - get on a ... | |
| Offensive Defenceman | 9/26/2007 |
| Q: I just transferd from goaltender to defenceman.. I was wondering what i should do to be a good ... A: There is alot that can be said about this depending on your age - level of play and commitment... ... | |
| how to do sharp turns and crossovers | 9/26/2007 |
| Q: martial hey, i need to work on my sharp turns. the diameter at which i turn is like 5 feet and i ... A: Explaining the crossover can be a little tricky without demonstration... Here are some basic ... | |
| hockey skating stopping and sharp tight turns | 9/20/2007 |
| Q: i have been wanting to play hockey for about a year now but I'm not really good a stopping while ... A: .. If you have to "turn" to make a stop - you are probably adapting to ice hockey from skating on ... | |
| Tiering Question | 9/17/2007 |
| Q: My son has been evaluated for the Novice 1 team (8 year olds mainly) but near the bottom of it. I'm ... A: .. It is my opinion that at this age the priority should be time on the ice and FUN! He will have ... | |
| ankle issues and skates | 9/4/2007 |
| Q: as he suggested that that I ask you Thanks! sorry its long....My daughter who is 14 and a high end ... A: .. We did not know that either about two different skates... but if you think about it - they are ... | |
| ankle issues and skates | 9/4/2007 |
| Q: as he suggested that that I ask you Thanks! sorry its long....My daughter who is 14 and a high end ... A: .. Wow - this sounds all too familiar! My son, who went to prep school in Canada for 3 years - had ... | |
| if your born American you'll never make it | 8/28/2007 |
| Q: Your answers are very motivating to these children that want to make it in the NHL, but the reality ... A: .. There may (have been) many non-americans (in the past) - but that, I believe, has been changing, ... | |
| position | 8/28/2007 |
| Q: hey im cory, I was wondering what position you think I should play. I can play both forward and ... A: At that size I would have to say it favors you being a forward. Unfortunately for you defenseman ... | |
| Positional Play | 8/26/2007 |
| Q: My 10 year old is playing for a select team for the first time and wants to play forward rather than ... A: .. I understand your situation... I actually went through that myself as a young lad - having ... | |
| Left vs Right | 8/21/2007 |
| Q: I've been playing hockey off and on for 20 years or so. I've really started focusing on improving ... A: .. The answer to this will depend mostly on what your goals or objectives are for playing hockey... ... | |
| NEVER TOO LATE! | 8/16/2007 |
| Q: I would describe myself as a hard-working young (15) goalie who is trying very hard to improve his ... A: Sorry again for delay -- it's a busy time... From what you are saying - I would go one more year ... | |
| NEVER TOO LATE! | 8/15/2007 |
| Q: I would describe myself as a hard-working young (15) goalie who is trying very hard to improve his ... A: Hey Evan... Thanks for the follow up... And sorry for delay on last reply - (I noticed you nicked ... | |
| NEVER TOO LATE! | 8/13/2007 |
| Q: I would describe myself as a hard-working young (15) goalie who is trying very hard to improve his ... A: Answer: Hi Evan To be realistic your odds are somewhat against you if you have not already made a ... | |
| raising the puck | 8/3/2007 |
| Q: HELP!!! i can't raise the puck at all on the ice! my coach doesn't really work with us on that ...he ... A: .. There are a couple things you can do to help your raise your shot. #1. FOR SLAP OR SNAP SHOTS: ... | |
| Trying for the NHL | 7/26/2007 |
| Q: Hey Martial, my name is Anthony Bacon. First, a brief history about me: I have been into hockey ... A: .. I am never one to say that something is IMPOSSIBLE... If your REALLY REALLY REALLY want - I ... | |
| NHL | 7/19/2007 |
| Q: Hey Martial, My name is Anthony Schulte, I'm 18 years old and I'm from southern Alabama which is ... A: Hey Anthony! You know HOPE is a "tricky" notion... it's GREAT to have it as it will certainly ... | |
| all about college...? | 7/6/2007 |
| Q: I'm Marcin and I'm from Poland.I think I'm good hockey player. I play in national team of Poland.I ... A: .. I am sure if you are playing on a good National Team that you must have some pretty good ... | |
| help | 7/4/2007 |
| Q: i grew up on maui. i just started playing 4 years ago in toronto. i am a naturally gifted athlete ... A: I am never one to say things are impossible - though some things certainly are lower percentage. ... | |
| NHL Hockey Glass | 6/27/2007 |
| Q: I am 73 and have been an NHL hockey fan for over 6 decades. I watch most of the game at Chicago. In ... A: Hey Dennis ... I grew up in Montreal area in the 60's & 70's ... Needless to say I was a big Hab ... | |
| installing an endplug | 6/24/2007 |
| Q: I recently bought a composite stick and it's a little short. How do I install an endplug? A: .. I trust you are doing well and enjoying this great game! Installing an end plug is no different ... | |
| mental block - being in a rut - slumps... | 6/22/2007 |
| Q: I seem to have a huge mental block that is holding me back. My knowledge of the game and skills are ... A: Hey Barry... I see you are still "hard at it"! That's great! This game can be quite addictive... ... | |
| systems for 7 year olds ... or not? | 6/17/2007 |
| Q: What do you do to get 7 year old boys to react to playing defensive hockey? I am new to coaching ... A: .. Great question... First of all while it is very noble to want to teach these young boys about ... | |
| snap shot | 6/13/2007 |
| Q: hey man, well lately ive been looking to improve my snap shot. ive been trying to emulate the ... A: .. First things first: A quickly released "quick" shot is probably one of the highest percentage ... | |
| My 4 year old | 6/12/2007 |
| Q: My son started skating lessons--here in Phoenix last September (half an hour every saturday with 8-9 ... A: Hey Steve... That's great ... We definitely need to rally behind them next year ... they MUST make ... | |
| My 4 year old | 6/12/2007 |
| Q: My son started skating lessons--here in Phoenix last September (half an hour every saturday with 8-9 ... A: Hey Steven... (You a Habs fan too?? -- I'm a die hard -- having spent the better part of my life ... | |
| training program | 6/9/2007 |
| Q: I am a 14 year-old. 5'2", 100 pound d-man looking to bulk up for next season. I would like to make ... A: .. Unfortunately there is no sure fire way to put on weight - as alot of it will have to do with ... | |
| Defense 2 on 1 slapshot | 6/6/2007 |
| Q: My 13 yr old son plays AAA and faces a particular player that when challenged will just fire a ... A: .. Great question! First of all, for all intents and purposes - he should be playing most 2-1's ... | |
| junior hockey | 6/4/2007 |
| Q: I was wondering if you had to be playing at a certain level, AAA or AA, to try out for junior ... A: Good morning Kenny... Actually you don't -- almost anyone within the age bracket can tryout. Of ... | |
| long island hockey | 6/1/2007 |
| Q: hey im cory, I was wondering if you know anything about getting noticed in hockey if you live on ... A: I am not too familiar with the north east area... But you can try EJHL - (A good Junior A tier II ... | |
| JUNIOR HOCKEY | 5/31/2007 |
| Q: My son just recently made a local jr.C team, but has since made a jr.B team 3.5hours away. I'm ... A: I understand your concerns - I've been there myself with my son! Playing Jr. B will definitely ... | |
| skating slaloms in practice vs. games | 5/12/2007 |
| Q: Martial I am refering to the skating maneuver where you keep your legs together and ski or slalom ... A: .. The slalom drill is basically an exercise to "work" on becoming more agile using the edges of ... | |
| Coaching | 5/5/2007 |
| Q: I am a college freshman interesting in becoming a coach. Would you recommend that I major in ... A: .. This is fantastic that you are thinking of coaching at this stage of your career! Coaching will ... | |
| stickhandling | 5/2/2007 |
| Q: hey im cory and im wondering why it is that when im outside and using a golfball, smartball,swedish ... A: Tell me something are you practicing while moving or basically stationary... if so - you may have ... | |
| warrior sticks | 4/17/2007 |
| Q: should i get a macdaddy stick or a dolmite stick for ice. A: Sorry for delay -- I had to research this one a bit... I've never used either one, but from what I ... | |
| Source to find pro teams to tryout for | 4/14/2007 |
| Q: I'm currently 23 and have been out of the playing side of hockey for a few years (been coaching my ... A: Ya I saw parts of the "be a bruin" show during some NHL intermissions... Looked like a pretty ... | |
| Hockey Terms | 4/7/2007 |
| Q: When hockey teams list a roster of players what does the term "healthy scratch" mean? Does this ... A: .. No he does not dress... it does mean he could have dressed but because a team can only dress 20 ... | |
| A Few Questions on Stopping/Shots/Speed/College | 4/6/2007 |
| Q: I know these are quite a few questions spun into one, but I feel I need advice to my own specific ... A: .. To master the art of stopping it would be best for you to go through the steps "in order" ...-- ... | |
| Visors | 4/1/2007 |
| Q: I'm am considering making the change from full cage to visor. I play midget AA and am wondering what ... A: .. TO KEEP THIS SIMPLE! I would keep the cage. Sticks are sill way too high as most players have ... | |
| Stiff Skates and balance for light players? | 3/20/2007 |
| Q: I play hockey at least twice a week and have the top of the line Mission Flyweights about 4 years ... A: .. I have not heard anything on the Mission Skates performance per se... My cousin has a pro shop ... | |
| Crossovers | 3/19/2007 |
| Q: Is it common for players to have a dominate side when doing crossovers and a weak side? I consider ... A: .. Yes this is pretty normal for almost everyonw ... most people will have a dominant side and ... | |
| How old are these skates? | 3/16/2007 |
| Q: I bought an old pair of bauer 'hugger' hockey skates to hang on my door (mother of 3 hockey players) ... A: .. These would go back to the mid seventies... (1975-76ish?) sometimes they would have a stamp in ... | |
| puckhandling | 3/14/2007 |
| Q: I've been out of hockey for 4 years now; a good friend of mine and myself have decided to join a ... A: .. Before we say too much about different things on puck handling I do want to emphasize a skill ... | |
| keeping your head up | 3/11/2007 |
| Q: hey my name is cory and i was wondering if you knew anything i could to to keep my head up. I can ... A: .. You know I want to share a little secret... keeping your head up is a little "overrated"!!! ... | |
| Next level! | 3/8/2007 |
| Q: Martial My game is improving,so when I got asked to 'sub' for a team in an old timers league,I ... A: Barry ... this is great - you are continue your progressive "stretch" and you must take alot of ... | |
| Roller to Ice | 3/8/2007 |
| Q: Well I'm going from roller to ice now. Our roller league folded so that's really my only ... A: Hey Scott... Actually in my opinion - you are in a very good position... it's certainly easier to ... | |
| taking a quick shot with no time to set up or think | 2/27/2007 |
| Q: Having my most successfull year yet thanks in large part to your previous advice! The last thing I ... A: .. thanks for the credit -- but you are definitely a very enthusiastic player who is very dedicated ... | |
| Hockey stop | 2/26/2007 |
| Q: i want to be able to hockey stop, so i am not flying all over the place trying to stop. Can you help ... A: .. being able to add stopping (and restarting) to our repertoire of skills will surely make one's ... | |
| defensive play in front of the net | 2/23/2007 |
| Q: Given the new rules, what body checking/positioning can a D do to an opposing player in front of the ... A: .. This is indeed a very good question and if we just had to deal with the rule book in black and ... | |
| Crossovers for speed? | 2/20/2007 |
| Q: Martial My forward skating/speed has hit a plateau. I continue to train and practice but at my age ... A: .. cross overs will not necessarily give you speed as much as slow down an opponent trying to catch ... | |
| weighted vest? | 2/16/2007 |
| Q: My nephew(19) has been playing for only two years now but coming along great. He is highly motivated ... A: .. The key to any exercise or training regimen is one must ENJOY doing it. If a prop can add some ... | |
| AAA | 2/12/2007 |
| Q: My son is going into Squirt A this spring, he's almost 9. We've been getting calls from AAA teams ... A: .. This is an EXCELLENT question and one more parents should ask and research! Playing at the ... | |
| Player position | 2/9/2007 |
| Q: I am new to ice skating and hockey. My weaknesses are speed and puck handling. Strengths are ... A: It sounds like you might have some of the qualities of a good defense... obviously a tough ... | |
| Junior Hockey Tryouts | 2/6/2007 |
| Q: hey im cory Im 16 and live in long island new york. I was wondering if there are any junior teams I ... A: .. I am not too familiar with the north east area... But you can try EJHL - (A good Junior A tier ... | |
| Cooperalls | 2/1/2007 |
| Q: Have you ever worn these? I am considering getting a used pair. I heard they are less restricting ... A: .. Now there's a name from the past... There were many mixed opinions on those... I guess it all ... | |
| Son's Future in Hockey | 1/30/2007 |
| Q: I was wondering what my son can do to get into some tryouts for the minor leagues? Where do I go ... A: .. If your talking Jr hockey there are several leagues you can find at the USA Hockey website... ... | |
| John LeClair | 1/29/2007 |
| Q: What ever happened to John LeClair? He's not even on the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins roster. ... A: .. Last I heard he was released by the flyers in Mid December -- he was suppose to go to ... | |
| scoring chances | 1/27/2007 |
| Q: it works really well. I need to know how to create a scoring chance. I can score during drills and ... A: .. Part of this is learning to relax during "game" situations... confidence is a huge part of the ... | |
| Practice vs, Games - Game confidence | 1/27/2007 |
| Q: Martial I play one rec league game a week on Friday nights. My new job has given me some extra spare ... A: .. This sounds like when you are more relaxed and feel that making a mistake will matter less (i.e. ... | |
| Special ED Hockey | 1/23/2007 |
| Q: I teach special Ed PE. I thought it would be nice to try hickey. I work very hard to teach them ... A: Hockey would be a fantastic sport for PE... it offers opportunity to teach all aspects of ... | |
| Playing Weight | 1/22/2007 |
| Q: I am at least 25 pounds overweight,but I can still get around OK on the ice and have lots of wind ... A: I would have to say that YES -- shedding off some pounds will MOST DEFINITELY help!! You see alot ... | |
| body checking | 1/9/2007 |
| Q: Ive been playing for a while now and I can get the puck by lifting the opponents stick pretty good ... A: .. nice to hear from you again! Body checking is a skill that relies mostly on timing and follow ... | |
| hockey man | 1/9/2007 |
| Q: does my agae matter 21 they dont have a certain age that u have to be playin byyo man ive im 21 ... A: Actually at these professional levels they don't usually start getting players till they hit 21... ... | |
| Shooting | 1/8/2007 |
| Q: I have been practicing my ability to get off a quick snap shot while skating. The problem seems to ... A: IN my personal experience - there has always been a way to make a necessary adjustment... I see ... | |
| hockey man | 1/8/2007 |
| Q: yo man ive im 21 living in charlottetown pei canada i played until i was 17 then moved to vancouver ... A: .. I am never one to say that something is IMPOSSIBLE... If your REALLY REALLY REALLY want - I ... | |
| re: radius & pitch | 1/2/2007 |
| Q: Happy New Year! i have a couple of questions regarding radius & pitch. I just bought a pair of ... A: .. AND A "HOCKEY NEW YEAR" TO YOU TOO!!!!!!!! ;-) I have seen these and to the best of my ... | |
| On motivating teamwork? | 12/31/2006 |
| Q: I am the captain of a competitve girls team, and i was wondering if you could help me out a little ... A: .. That can sure be a tough challenge for anyone to face... but know that it is not up to you ALONE ... | |
| Hockey Stops | 12/29/2006 |
| Q: I have recently started skating and would like to learn how to hockey stop instead of running into ... A: .. Welcome to ice hockey... Being able to add stopping (and restarting) to your repertoire of ... | |
| Slapshot power ... | 12/25/2006 |
| Q: Seasons Greetings Martial! My play has improved a lot in the past couple seasons,but if there was ... A: Glad to hear things are improving -- THAT IS GREAT!! The roll ups are good! Any exercise to ... | |
| tryouts | 12/18/2006 |
| Q: Do you have any links to any webpages containing info on any minor league tryouts? Im prepared to ... A: If you are looking for minor pro - there are several leagues you can look up -- SPHL ... | |
| higher shots | 12/17/2006 |
| Q: hey I am in a pee wee hockey league and I need to know how to shoot the puck higher than 1 ... A: .. There are a couple things you can do to help your raise your shot. #1. FOR SLAP OR SNAP SHOTS: ... | |
| Thank You! | 12/8/2006 |
| Q: First of all, this IS the real Sidney Crosby, and second of all I came to you because I was getting ... A: .. I just wanted to follow up with a small favor? I know you probably get tons of requests and I ... | |
| Thank You! | 12/8/2006 |
| Q: a couple years ago I asked you a question asking about junior teams and what it takes to be in the ... A: Wow -- if this is really THE Sidney Crosby -- I am thrilled. Somehow I have a hard time believing ... | |
| who's goal? | 12/2/2006 |
| Q: I asked you a question before and thought you were very helpful. I am in a men's legue and the last ... A: .. Thanks for the kudos! I love the game -- I enjoy sharing my experiences and thoughts! As much ... | |
| which hand? | 11/28/2006 |
| Q: I'm 22 years old and have never played ice hockey before, but I'm learning to skate and my next step ... A: .. As you have read - there is a "better" side to play. If your dominant hand is the right - then ... | |
| Crossovers | 11/23/2006 |
| Q: If you were to describe how to do a crossover, is htere a way you could tell it to someone in steps? A: Sorry for delay - I had to fly to Montreal to attend my father in law's funeral... I just got back! ... | |
| Coaching systems and tactics for men? | 11/23/2006 |
| Q: FirstWhen you teach drills for cycling, forchecking, breakouts. How do you put these together. Do ... A: .. The best way to teach any of these "system" type plays is indeed to break them out into the ... | |
| Crossovers | 11/22/2006 |
| Q: I decided completely out of the blue in August that I was going to start playing hockey. So I joined ... A: .. I have never really heard about "limitations" for shorter people in hockey... There have been ... | |
| putting the puck in the net | 11/20/2006 |
| Q: I play in an adult, no-check league and play drop-in as often as i can. I've been playing since I ... A: ! A good place to start is a local chain book store -- more and more have at least ONE copy of ... | |
| composite stick question | 11/20/2006 |
| Q: I have been using a Koho intermediate stick.I like the length and the whip. I would like to get ... A: .. There are probably literally hundreds of different types of sticks available... and it's not ... | |
| 17 man line changes | 11/13/2006 |
| Q: I have a similar situation as the change line question dated 7/9/03. I have 17 kids on my squirt B ... A: .. You are on the right track ... keep the shifts short. Let your kids know this is what you will ... | |
| hockey stop and position | 11/9/2006 |
| Q: just a few quick questions for the hockey stop i would just like to know how to acctually do it haha ... A: The first thing you need to do is RELAX and let's work on your CONFIDENCE. The big key here (as ... | |
| re: skates | 11/8/2006 |
| Q: i have couple of questions . . .i bought a low end Mission skate about 3 years ago . . . do you know ... A: .. I am not 100% familiar with the Mission skates - but I know that all skates can have the blade ... | |
| lower back | 11/5/2006 |
| Q: Improving all the time! I am the oldest guy 48 on my team with an average age of 35. The guys cant ... A: .. Great stuff... us "ol" guys need to keep up with our own health and fitness eh? You know as ... | |
| Face Offs | 11/4/2006 |
| Q: What is the reason that an official will wave a player off from doing a face-off? Thanks. A: The ref can do this anytime any member of one team tries to get an advantage by "cheating" in any ... | |
| drills | 11/2/2006 |
| Q: Just would like to know if you know were I can locate some dryland goalie drills for free on the ... A: .. That can be a good question... you've googled the net I gather and could not find any great ... | |
| Been playin for awhile, wonderin about another step up for me. | 11/1/2006 |
| Q: I have been playing hockey off and on for almost 10 years or so. I am now 21 and playing in an adult ... A: If you are looking for minor pro - there are several leagues you can look up -- SPHL ... | |
| scoring | 10/29/2006 |
| Q: hey Martial! i've been working on my skating and getting a lot better but now that im focusing on ... A: .. That's great stuff Kiev! Skating is the most important part of the game! A quickly released ... | |
| can a 30 y/o play hockey | 10/27/2006 |
| Q: ------------------------------------------- has a walk on ever made it onto a team A: .. I could not say for sure if that has ever happened as a "walk on" without prior (fairly recent) ... | |
| can a 30 y/o play hockey | 10/26/2006 |
| Q: My question is I have never played hockey on an organized level being that i'm from the south where ... A: .. The odds are definitely not in your favor... but you just never know unless you "try"... If ... | |
| Stick Length Off Ice | 10/26/2006 |
| Q: If my stick should come up to my chin when on skates, does this mean it is best to use a stick which ... A: No, you should practice with a stick that also comes to the same place (up to your chin). You must ... | |
| Advice | 10/26/2006 |
| Q: I've just begun to develop a love for the game, and I figured while I am still young enough and have ... A: .. One of the best cardio exercises for hockey is cycling. This will work your lungs and your ... | |
| Ice Hockey | 10/24/2006 |
| Q: I played ice hockey when i was about 7 till around 12. Then i stopped so i could focus on high ... A: .. To be very realistic your odds are very much against you - HOWEVER THEY ARE CERTAINLY NOT ... | |
| Cherry Picking in Youth Hockey | 10/23/2006 |
| Q: Our Squirt AA team will be playing an average team next week, with the exception of one player. ... A: I totally agree with you ... kids SHOULD not be taught these sort of tactics... it is NOT part of ... | |
| hockey vs broomball | 10/23/2006 |
| Q: Is broomball the same as hockey and if so can you teach the same concepts as you would hockey to ... A: .. I played on my high school team back in the early 70's. As far as I can remember it was ... | |
| semi-pro tryouts | 10/19/2006 |
| Q: chl,sphl. when do they usually post tryout dates in hockey news and on the web? Thank you, Juraj ... A: .. Most of the tryouts are typically in late summer... though some leagues will run some screening ... | |
| Power Play breakout and defenseman play | 10/16/2006 |
| Q: Martial -Hey thanks for such concise advice. I like it when the details are covered! Any thoughts ... A: .. I know what I liked -- the least I can do is same eh? ;-) Another great question.... Yes it ... | |
| Power Play breakout and defenseman play | 10/16/2006 |
| Q: Martial, The high school team that I help with has difficulty in breaking out and it becomes even ... A: .. Great questions... General rules to abide by: 1. In own zone - keep puck outside of scoring ... | |
| Short legs | 10/15/2006 |
| Q: Martial I seem to improve every year(this is my fourth season playing as an adult),but I have a ... A: .. I can understand... I had an uncle (5'- 3" max) who struggled with the game -- but somehow ... | |
| ice hockey off-ice workouts | 10/15/2006 |
| Q: ive been playing hockey for 10 years now and I play bantam AA hockey and want to go to high school ... A: Unfortunately there is no sure fire way to put on weight - as alot of it will have to do with your ... | |
| Hockey | 10/14/2006 |
| Q: I have a couple of questions for you. 1st of all I am 15 years old and have been told I have a lot ... A: .. Making it all the way to the NHL is a very tough road for most. And unless you have already ... | |
| Roller Hockey | 10/12/2006 |
| Q: Okay, so ever since I was a little kid, I wanted to play hockey, but my parents wouldn't let me ... A: .. Welcome to the great game of hockey -- you will see once you get started -- you will have a hard ... | |
| Off-ice shooting | 10/11/2006 |
| Q: I am asking parents of my team to set up shooting area for the kids at home. Looking for advice on ... A: Since you are talking about "kids" shooting - you will no doubt be focusing most on mechanics and ... | |
| One leg push | 10/10/2006 |
| Q: Is there a way to motivate 6 y/o kid to "fight" for puck during a game or a practice? When he ... A: I totally understand your situation... I had a similar experience with my own son... unfortunately ... | |
| One leg push | 10/10/2006 |
| Q: My 6 y/o son uses mostly the right leg to push. We constantly remind him to use both legs. He starts ... A: For a 6 year old - this is quite normal... they may have a dominating strong side that they feel ... | |
| stick length | 10/7/2006 |
| Q: Hey Martial I am 5'7",short and stocky,not very agile.I used to use a real long stick as it helped ... A: .. Length of stick really boils down to personal preference and acceptable performance... If you ... | |
| Foot Numbness | 10/5/2006 |
| Q: I've been playing hockey since I was a kid. I can't remember a time when I didn't get numbness in my ... A: .. There is NO reason for you to have to live with numb feet ... a properly fitted and laced up ... | |
| Nhl | 10/2/2006 |
| Q: I'm going to be honest here, I am currently not playing hocky and have not in about 6 months, and ... A: Hey Jr. It seems there there are a few guys who'd like to "get back in the game"!! I'm a big ... | |
| hockey and skating | 10/1/2006 |
| Q: hey, im daniel and i just started ice skating and playing hockey last winter and im turning 15 this ... A: .. The big key about skating is PRACTICE... REPETITION... the more you do it the better you will ... | |
| coaching | 9/20/2006 |
| Q: Hey martial,I have been coaching youth hockey for 4 years, mites thru squirts.This year Im moving up ... A: There are literally hundreds of books about hockey drills and coaching ... all great sources for ... | |
| Hockey tips | 9/18/2006 |
| Q: I really need to make a tryout for hockey and i doesn't look good.do you have any tips? A: .. Wow -- this is a pretty open ended question... I'd love to help! Is there something more ... | |
| exercise bike or treadmill/running? | 9/17/2006 |
| Q: With a month to go I need to start working out to prepare for my adult rec season. I used to jog ... A: .. Your observation is very accurate. The exercise bike is a much better cardio-leg builder than ... | |
| How can we motivate our son to get back into hockey? | 9/11/2006 |
| Q: Our son has now been playing rep hockey for 3 yrs. He is an amazing Defensive player when he puts ... A: .. I can certainly empathize with what you are experiencing. Without knowing "MORE" about your ... | |
| Hockey Jock | 9/8/2006 |
| Q: A bit of a whacky question and embarrasing after having played hockey most of my life. I just ... A: .. From my experience of seeing other guys use them ... the flap is to protect it from clinging on ... | |
| Tryouts | 9/8/2006 |
| Q: I am currently in the US Marine Corps. and am 23 years old, i have been playing hockey now for over ... A: If you are looking for minor pro - there are several leagues you can look up -- SPHL ... | |
| defense gap | 9/4/2006 |
| Q: I am 32, A few years back (26-27)I was able to go to public stick time at the local rink 4-5 times a ... A: Welcome to this great game ... it is definitely exhilirating and great exercise! The general rule ... | |
| Just started, some questions.. | 9/4/2006 |
| Q: whell i did get new skates last week, i ended up getting easton synergy 700's.. i have went skating ... A: .. Hey -- the Synergy 700's are a good choice for new "beginner" skates too! When I said good used ... | |
| Just started, some questions.. | 9/3/2006 |
| Q: i just started skating with the intention of playing ice hockey, i just got into it about a year ago ... A: Good Day Brad... Welcome to the great game of Hockey ... it is indeed a fantastic game. I would ... | |
| i been hockey for 7 years | 8/28/2006 |
| Q: Do they pick you to play on their pro team or can you just tryout for that team Answer - Hi ... A: That means that you can search out different teams that may need players and then send your "resume" ... | |
| i been hockey for 7 years | 8/28/2006 |
| Q: Do they pick you to play on their pro team or can you just tryout for that team A: .. Generally you need to TRYOUT. You may be scouted and invited to various camps, practices, ... | |
| Training | 8/22/2006 |
| Q: You told me that i didnt need to be super strong until im playing against people who out-weigh me by ... A: That is typical for "smaller" guys ... my son is still 50 pounds lighter than most and he's playing ... | |
| Skate faster | 8/19/2006 |
| Q: my name is Phil and I started playing ice hockey 1 1/2 years ago. I play basketball too but, I am ... A: .. Here's my take on the perfect stride: THE PERFECT SKATING STRIDE... 1. Knees AND ankles must ... | |
| rockered | 8/16/2006 |
| Q: I had my skates sharpened last night and the guy said I should get my skates rockered. What exactly ... A: .. This can be a very good thing... what they do is make the blade curved or rockered to help give ... | |
| hockey training | 8/14/2006 |
| Q: Im a 13 year old, 80 pound defencemen going into Bantam. I am 5 feet tall and i was wondering if you ... A: While you are still a little young for doing any heavy weight training (since your bones are still ... | |
| Skates? | 8/12/2006 |
| Q: My skates (Bauer100's) are starting to get worn out in the boot(I have replaced the blade once) so ... A: I hear you .. back in the day it was just "Super Takcs" or "Bauer Supremes"!!! Unless you play 4-5 ... | |
| Skate speed | 7/30/2006 |
| Q: I have played soccer all of my life and im a very fast runner. I just started playing Ice Hockey ... A: .. Sorry for delay - had a real busy weekend! Welcome to this great game -- absolutely with your ... | |
| How Do I Workout For Football and Still stay flexible for hockey | 7/28/2006 |
| Q: I live in New York and we have good hockey. I am playing Midget Major 16 U AAA and Im 15. I'm 5'10 ... A: !! Hockey and football are not totally incompatible... The muscle and mass is still good for ... | |
| Helpp . ! = ) | 7/24/2006 |
| Q: Hey there, I'm 15 years old and I have played rep hockey for about 7 years now and I only have 2 ... A: Putting a weight program together is not exactly something that I do in particular. There are ... | |
| skating backwards | 7/4/2006 |
| Q: i had a tip from a freind that you were a good guy to go to and i was wondering if u have any tips ... A: .. Thank your friend for the referral - I appreciate it! Backward skating is a slight variation ... | |
| Game 'nights' | 7/3/2006 |
| Q: Martial thanks again for your help-you have been invaluable.I get comments fairly regularly on how ... A: .. I am very happy to hear your are doing well. And it sounds like you are enjoying yourself too! ... | |
| radius and pitch | 6/30/2006 |
| Q: Forward lean Thanks Martial I will definately go to the 11 again,but how important is the forward ... A: In my opinion it does make a difference if you are a forward. The D look so good with their ... | |
| radius and pitch | 6/30/2006 |
| Q: I am playing summer hockey on a much better team and a higher level of play than in the past.I am ... A: .. Always good to hear from you and glad that things are progressing for you! It's a great game ... | |
| Coaching - questions for a screenplay | 6/28/2006 |
| Q: I am a screenwriter from the UK and I have been asked to adapt a novel for the big screen - its ... A: .. It will be a pleasure for me to assist you with this project. I will definitely look up this ... | |
| general | 6/27/2006 |
| Q: how are you? I am 22yrs old and having been playing ice hockey for about 10years. I live in New ... A: .. You can go to the USA HOCKEY website ... ... | |
| team work | 6/27/2006 |
| Q: I want to ask that if your team members have not very well skating skills how you play in game. ... A: Greetings Ferhat! Welcome to the hockey fraternity! The best thing to offer to your teammates is ... | |
| Shifting into high speed | 6/17/2006 |
| Q: As an older inexperianced player(never played minor),I have made a lot of improvements to my game ... A: There is a program (if you are interested in pursuing it) that is made for all sports but can be ... | |
| Hockey Stretching and injury prevention | 6/16/2006 |
| Q: I've been playing in the adult league for about two years and really enjoy it. I was wondering if ... A: The best thing to do is take the time to do a (full) and proper warm up and stretch... (There is ... | |
| Lefty or Righty? | 6/14/2006 |
| Q: I play ice hockey (as well as baseball, tennis, golf, etc.) and have a very good shot with my right, ... A: Hey Dog... Are you right or left handed? -- In my opinion right hand dominant people "should" ... | |
| Sizing a hockey stick | 6/13/2006 |
| Q: I've just started learning to play ice hockey and I want to make sure I know the proper way to size ... A: .. There is variability for personal preference... The "average" being your stick should come to ... | |
| How to hockey stop | 6/6/2006 |
| Q: for the past few months i have been going to the public ice rinks and try to hockey stop. i can do ... A: .. Have you reas my previous emails on hockey stops? What exactly are you having trouble with -- ... | |
| Ice Hockey Skating and Training | 5/29/2006 |
| Q: I've been doing some reading through your past Q and A's and there's plenty of good information to ... A: .. Welcome to ice hockey... I'm sure you've noticed already .. as great as roller hockey can be - ... | |
| Penalties | 5/26/2006 |
| Q: My question is when team A is on a 5 on 3 power play, and team B is short two players already, and ... A: .. The penalized teams remains with 3 men on the ice. The time for the player who got the penalty ... | |
| skating... | 5/6/2006 |
| Q: i have recently discovered that my left leg is my dominent leg so i need to train to start stopping ... A: A good way to help yourself start getting use to a hockey stop is to get the feel of sliding your ... | |
| I want to play again! | 5/5/2006 |
| Q: I want to play hockey again really bad but I'm to old for jouniors and I was going to play for ... A: If you are looking for minor pro - there are several leagues you can look up -- SPHL ... | |
| Goalie Pads | 4/30/2006 |
| Q: I just bought a pair of goalie pads for my son and he loves them, me not knowing a lot about hockey ... A: .. I don't have alot of experience with goalie equipment, but I have seen them dressing in locker ... | |
| desire | 4/27/2006 |
| Q: I would like to know how to approach (teams/coaches) about playing. I have no professional ... A: Hey Billy! Alot of the bios/apps will allow you to put in your STRENGTHS... And if they don't, ... | |
| Team Building | 4/24/2006 |
| Q: I am always interested in any information about team building. Do you have any suggestions about ... A: Great question. I have found it always VERY important for a team to GEL on the ice - they must KNOW ... | |
| playing defense | 4/18/2006 |
| Q: i just started playing hockey this year and ive played 1 on 1 frequently with some better players. ... A: The best thing to do on any 1 on 1 - is ignore the puck and focus 100% on the chest area of your ... | |
| X's and O's | 4/16/2006 |
| Q: Martial- I am interested in team stratagies for my C leage adult team that absolutlly has no idea on ... A: .. I hear you -- hockey is not as easy to play as some people think... though it is great FUN to ... | |
| Pro Hockey League Tryouts | 4/10/2006 |
| Q: Ma. I played midgets for the New England Jr. Coyotes, and Jrs for Umass Jr Minutemen. I had a few ... A: .. If you are looking for minor pro - there are several leagues you can look up -- SPHL, UHL and ... | |
| Stay or 'sandbag' it? | 3/31/2006 |
| Q: Hey Martial how are you? As you know,I am a 47 year old rec player,only having learned to skate and ... A: My advice is do what you ENJOY the most -- if you like loose hockey -- scoring some goals having ... | |
| Game Awareness | 3/31/2006 |
| Q: I have 2 sons that play youth hockey. My older one plays Squirts (9 & 10 year olds) and my younger ... A: It sure is great that you take the time to participate with your sons and be so involved. And I ... | |
| Off Ice Training | 3/19/2006 |
| Q: I am currently a freshman at Arizona State University and am planning on trying out for the Division ... A: .. What you need to be doing to compliment your strength training is what is called PLYOMETRICS. ... | |
| My Hockey Stop | 3/18/2006 |
| Q: All I can do now is put my right foot out, which would be my back foot and spray ice and come to a ... A: .. it's about weight transfer and getting more confident with using your left (and probably weaker) ... | |
| Insoles | 3/4/2006 |
| Q: -Martial All I can find retail where I live is 'Superfeet'.Know anything about these? They are more ... A: .. No, can't say I've heard of those.... Another up and coming good set of soles that combines the ... | |
| Insoles | 3/4/2006 |
| Q: -Martial Where can I get the Shock Doctors?Martial I have high arches and tend to walk on the ... A: .. there are several places you can get them... here is one: ... | |
| Insoles | 3/3/2006 |
| Q: Martial I have high arches and tend to walk on the outside of my feet. My skates(Bauer 100's) which ... A: .. Have you tried the new shock doctor's insoles? They have mini pressure pads at specific ... | |
| Flat Puck Flight | 2/22/2006 |
| Q: Do you have any tips or techniques on how to flatten your shot? I am generally satisfied with the ... A: Shooting is always more about technique than power... so practicing often and on ANY surface will ... | |
| Need a good boot | 2/17/2006 |
| Q: I'm looking for a good hockey boot. I've had Bauers in the past, and I currently wear a CCM, and ... A: The pain in the arch is most defenitely caused by a poor fitting boot. Tell me did you "bake" your ... | |
| Defensive zone coverage | 2/16/2006 |
| Q: What is your knowledge of a 1-2-2 defensive zone system? Is this appropriate for kids between 8-10? A: .. I am familiar with the 1-2-2, which is also a version of the "TRAP"... and in my opinion, while ... | |
| Cycling the Puck | 2/16/2006 |
| Q: Looking for any good drills to get this concept more ingrained to Bantam age players A: .. Great question and not an easy task for most kids this age... The first thing they must ... | |
| Stickhandling | 2/11/2006 |
| Q: Still improving lots,thanks! I found a rink where a group of twenty somethings goes to every Friday ... A: .. it's great that you are improving... your hard work is a big credit to this ... no matter how ... | |
| pulling goalie | 2/11/2006 |
| Q: can you start the face off with the goalie pulled in the last minute of the game, or do you have to ... A: You watching the Olympics too? Some great woman's hockey going on right now... Yes - absolutely ... | |
| Arm exercises for shooting | 2/6/2006 |
| Q: I didnt understand #1 where you said to shoot from a front to back foot follow through. I shoot left ... A: Actually Barry - from a stationary position you are CORRECT -- as a left handed shot you do end on ... | |
| NHL without going to college | 2/6/2006 |
| Q: Hey thanks for the answer, I'm thinking I might just have to try out for some of those teams. Could ... A: Here is the link for the USHL (Tryouts) page - (it's not updated for 2006 yet - but you can look up ... | |
| Arm exercises for shooting | 2/6/2006 |
| Q: My game is constantly improving,in part thanks to your advice. I am keeping up with the ... A: .. Always nice to hear from you! And glad to hear things are improving! Shot power comes from a ... | |
| NHL without going to college | 2/6/2006 |
| Q: Hey I was Wondering if there is any way of getting into the NHL if you didn't go to college. I am ... A: !! Nothing is impossible Sam -- if you really have the skills and the determination - great things ... | |
| When to start skating | 2/5/2006 |
| Q: What age is it appropriate for my son to start skating? A: .. I don't believe there is any "INAPPROPRIATE" age ... as long as your son is comfortable with ... | |
| Sore ankles after skating in new skates | 2/3/2006 |
| Q: I was wondering how to break in my skates because when I play for 5- 10 minutes My ankles are ... A: .. There are a couple things you can do to help the process... #1. Yes bake them ... but it's ... | |
| Lace Bite | 2/2/2006 |
| Q: I am breaking in a new pair of skates. this is the first time I have bought new skates in 13 years. ... A: .. Without seeing exactly your situation here are some possiblities: #1. You may have something ... | |
| defense | 1/29/2006 |
| Q: I am a JV coach and teaching defense at this level seems to be very little. Everyone wants to score ... A: .. Well you are dead on with your "assessment" of what your Defensemen need to be doing!! Yes - ... | |
| leaving equipment on ice | 1/28/2006 |
| Q: I get that when a stick breaks that you drop it becuase it is dangerous to everyone on the ice. ... A: .. You are indeed correct about the rule concerning the broken stick -- as soon as it is broken, ... | |
| Wobble board | 1/24/2006 |
| Q: Martial I just picked up a round plastic wobble board for under ten bucks. I remember reading ... A: Good deal! Yes these are very handy for working on your balance for sure. You can do just about ... | |
| Running | 1/16/2006 |
| Q: Martial In your experiance,how much value would you give to running as a training tool for hockey? I ... A: That's why more hockey guys use stationary bikes, ellipitcal machines and stair steppers for thigh ... | |
| Pitch | 1/6/2006 |
| Q: Happy New Year! I am thinking of changing the pitch on my blades. I am top heavy with short legs. I ... A: .. Happy New Year to you too!! A "D" pitch will give you a FLATTER blade and a more "balanced" ... | |
| Stickhandling | 12/8/2005 |
| Q: My hockey skills have improved a lot the last couple years,especially the skating,but I need to work ... A: Glad to hear that you are improving! It's a great game isn't it? Stick handling is really alot ... | |
| Hockey | 12/5/2005 |
| Q: I am doing a project on a college essay, and I am suppose to pick someone on this site to ask a few ... A: .. ok -- here's a QUICK reply to your questions... if you want elaboration -- just let me know! ... | |
| Hockey position | 11/28/2005 |
| Q: im 16 an ive been playing roller hockey for about 3 years now an i just got on a traveling team and ... A: The first thing of course is to keep working at your skills and NEVER give up -- so you CAN keep up ... | |
| Training for 7 year old kids. | 11/19/2005 |
| Q: Do you have any suggestions for training excersizes for young kids. I'm out of ideas but I still ... A: .. Can you tell me if you want "exercises" for on ice or off ice training? And when you mean ... | |
| after the game | 11/15/2005 |
| Q: I'm a coach of a PW rep hockey team,11 & 12 year old boys. How important is it to have a team ... A: I AGREE! It is an excellent opportunity to review. I ALWAYS had pregame and prepractice "talks" as ... | |
| Player position coverage & responsibility | 11/10/2005 |
| Q: I am Coaching a Roller Hockey "Pee Wee 11/12" team and I am finding it hard to relay the coverage ... A: Great question and I am happy that you are asking about this rather than just winging it with often ... | |
| playing right wing | 10/16/2005 |
| Q: I was playing right wing in my mens league. I haven't played hockey for about 20 years. We were in ... A: .. Actually you are both "right"... However it would help alot if you set "which" system you and ... | |
| position changes | 10/10/2005 |
| Q: My son, 8 1/2, has just started his 3rd year playing hockey. He has been exclusively a left winger ... A: .. Thanks for taking the time to search for answers on this question -- your son is lucky to have ... | |
| I've never played organized... | 10/2/2005 |
| Q: I've never played organized hockey and my 5 yr old is starting his first year. He is right handed ... A: Good morning Bill... This is a very good question and I wish more parents of young kids would ask ... | |
| Biking | 5/23/2005 |
| Q: Martial What do you think of biking as a way to stay in shape and train for hockey? Is there a ... A: Actually biking is a GREAT exercise for developing your skating legs and working your ... | |
| Selfish Players vs Passing Game | 5/9/2005 |
| Q: I am coaching a high school inline team. I am having a lot of trouble getting the team to ... A: ! This is a question has been asked for years -- especially with certain group of kids... the ... | |
| Greatest player | 2/23/2005 |
| Q: I too love the game and have been playing for 14 years and i'm only 18.It would be very apprciated ... A: .. A great game indeed and I really miss watching it this year!! I sure hope they make a deal ... | |
| Motivation & Team work | 1/31/2005 |
| Q: Have a group of 9-10 year olds who will not play as a team. Too much one man show ... A: .. Ah this is a tough situation to be in -- especially this late in the season. If the kids ... | |
| off-ice conditioning | 12/8/2004 |
| Q: I am a dad with 2 girls (13 and 11 yrs old) on a girls team. We are trying to get them into better ... A: .. Thanks for the question... As a father and coach with many years experience myself --I have ... | |
| training | 10/24/2004 |
| Q: I'm a 2nd year peewee A. I've been using a training stratgy my coach gave me but it's not very ... A: .. Sorry for delay - I was on a road trip scouting Jr. Players in Minnesota! At your age it still ... | |
| teaching highschool hockey | 9/13/2004 |
| Q: I was wondering if you could give me any pointers on teaching hockey. I am a high school teacher ... A: Great to see a school offer hockey for gym credit -- there is growing hope for this sport!! Yes ... | |
| heavy gear | 5/30/2004 |
| Q: I have been playing adult recreational hockey for a season and really enjoy it. Only one thing, ... A: .. In my opinion I would consider this a NORMAL process. You just haven't "gotten used to it yet"! ... | |
| practice | 4/9/2004 |
| Q: Do you know of a website where I could find out how many hours a week a pro hockey player spend at ... A: .. I don't really know of any website that would give you this answer -- but from the experience of ... | |
| Summer sports | 2/19/2004 |
| Q: Martial With hockey now over,I want to stay active(only a little golf inpast years)and learn a new ... A: Hey Barry ... I hope you had a good season!! Hockey is a sport of 20 second explosive bursts -- so ... | |
| Shooting on the go | 1/15/2004 |
| Q: Hey Martial Just to let you know my daughter and myself have improved lots thanks to your ... A: Hey Barry - thanks! Glad to hear you are using the advice!! Always good to know something is ... | |
| Agility | 1/5/2004 |
| Q: My speed,and shooting/passing is improving,but in terms of agility,I am like a truck on the ice ... A: Sounds like you just need more practice... yes skating aroung pylons (or any obstacles) will help ... | |
| New hockey skates | 12/30/2003 |
| Q: I received new hockey skates. How do I break them in? Do they need to be sharpened or are they ok ... A: .. Welcome back to ice hockey... New skates can sometimes be a challenge -- depending on the ones ... | |
| I need a point(s)! | 11/6/2003 |
| Q: Another question from one of your 'students'. Its 9 games into my second adult rec. season and no ... A: .. sorry for delay - just got back from another very busy roadtrip... I never did like points as an ... | |
| Public Skating | 10/4/2003 |
| Q: The Atom rec.team that I am coaching,as well as my own rec. team,wont be having any practices,just ... A: Hey Barry! In 3 very simple words!! SKATE SKATE & SKATE!!! I believe I may have already shared ... | |
| Which hand? | 9/17/2003 |
| Q: What is the proper way for a skater to hold their sticks for stickhandling and shoting. Thanks. A: .. Good question! The power of the shot and puck handling control actually comes most from the ... | |
| changing lines | 7/9/2003 |
| Q: I am new to coachig youth hockey i have 13 kids on my team, four defense, 8 on offense witch gives ... A: .. Welcome to a great oppotunity for you and your kids... Coaching (AND HOCKEY) offers so much! ... | |
Martial
Top Expert on this page
Expertise
I have been playing amateur hockey for 47 years... from Youth hockey up to Jr. "B", and now still play in adult leagues. I have coached youth hockey for 10+ years and have been an "active student" of all aspects of learning, playing and coaching hockey for past 8 years. I offer not only some X`s & O`s about hockey but also some experience in practical, philosophical, spiritual and motivational aspects of playing and learning the game. My son is now 25 - just done with his carreer through College. He went through all the hurdles to get to Juniors and play there for 3 years, then College for 4. I am happy to share our experience during that journey.
Experience
Now in my 48th year involved with this awesome ever evolving sport! I am USA Hockey Certified as Intermediate Level Coach.
I have a BA degree in Psychology with minor in business (Brock University), as well as a LLB (law degree) from Ottawa University.
I have owned and run my family business for 30+ years now. I have co-parented 3 great kids!
Education/Credentials
Social Studies Diploma CEGEP - Marianopolis College, Montreal Quebec
BA - Psychology, Minor in Business - Brock University
Law Degree - Ottawa University
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