Hockey Alberta is pleased to offer Spring Skill Development Sessions in Calgary in the upcoming months as the hockey season wraps up. Hockey Alberta's Small Area Games Camp/3on3 camp is a six-week program running approx March 24 to April 30 and features 12 1hr on-ice sessions over the six weeks for players born in 2005 and 2006 (Atom Players).

Each on-ice session will start with a series of skill development stations, followed by small area games and 3on3 type games, which are used to teach individual skills and tactics in a fun and competitive environment. With a lower number of participants than a traditional game and special rules, small area games focus on the development of specific skills by increasing puck touches and situational repetitions.

Instructors will be Hockey Alberta trained and will include former and current Elite and Pro hockey players. This program is meant strictly for skill development. The Skill Sessions and idea behind 3vs3 is based on the Long Term Player Development Model designed by Hockey Canada.

MUST WATCH VIDEO ON SKILL DEVELOPMENT (CLICK)

Where: Don Hartman North East Sportsplex

When: March 24 - April 30 (12 One hour sessions)

Cost: $250

Includes: 12 ice times, Hockey Alberta Jersey, Athletic Wear

CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SCHEDULE

Here is more info on Hockey Canada’s Long Term Athlete Development Model:

1. Long Term Player Development

2. Player Development Definitions

• 3-on-3 is a "skills" based game, played in tight spaces at a fast pace. Players quickly improve their "skills" to adapt to this fast pace.
• 3-on-3 hockey is best described as "organized pond hockey", where kids can develop their skills in a spring/summer league that emphasizes fun over winning.
• Sport science has long told us that to develop any high-level skill thousands of “repetitions” are required. These reps just don’t present themselves in winter hockey due to the restrictions of the competitive game (# of players on the ice, roles expected etc.).
• Less space = less time = quicker decisions!
• 3-on-3 hockey increases puck handling; team play; transition from offense to defense / defense to offense; positioning; time on the ice, plus many more benefits.
• Goalies are always in the play, more shots, and more movement which helps conditioning, awareness and positioning.
• Players that are not “goal scorers” get the opportunity to touch the puck more and gain confidence.
• Players who are use to playing offense get to play and appreciate the defensive side of the game and defensive players get to be more creative on the offensive side of the game.
• A great way to get ready for the upcoming season!

But...  The single biggest benefit of 3-on-3 play: "It is the most fun you will have playing hockey while working hard to improve your overall game!"

• Power Skating
• Shooting
• Passing
• Puck Control
• Goaltending
• Creativity
• Individual Team Tactics
• Small Area Game Focused

If you're interested in registering, please click the following link:

Small Area Games/3on3 Development Camp - Calgary (05/06)

Any Questions Contact Kellin Carson - Regional Consultant with Hockey Alberta - 1-403-660-1049 or kcarson@hockeyalberta.ca