Hi, I would like to take this moment to introduce myself as the new coach for the spring 2009 team. My name is Mark Long and I have been given the challenge to coach this years Maitland Icesharks Atom ’98 hockey team.
First of all I would like to take this opportunity to send out a big Thank-you to Darcy Herrfort and the coaching staff from the last two years for doing a tremendous job at coaching our kids. I would also like to wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors. I hope to be able to build upon what Darcy has been able to establish so far.
My coaching philosophy for this year’s team will be for the team to work together, support each other and build on life lessons. I am not an individual that looks at wins and losses as success but how our children think learn the terminology and play the game. We want them to first enjoy the game and take away memories in which they will be able to apply further on in life. I have compiled a list of things we will try to accomplish this year and work on
- Dryland Training ( Speed, Agility and Coordination)
- Aggressive Defensive Zone Coverage ( 5 different zones Checking, Support, Net, Slot and Point)
- Defensive Zone Face – Off Alignment
- Defensive Zone Delayed Breakout
- Offensive Attack using a 2-1-2 with puck support
- Offensive Zone Face – Off Alignment
2009 tournaments are:
Regional Spring Showdown May 8-10
Blue Thunder Cup May 22-24
Northshore Hitman May 29-31
You will start on the ice the weekend of Apr 25/26. Will be 6 ice times plus one or two exhibition games.
I am very ambitious and excited to have this opportunity to work with your children. My first challenge is to get around to seeing and doing some player evaluations. I have a whole new found of respect for Darcy going through this process.
I realize that it is still early and everyone is fully involved in their own regular teams, if you are interested in playing please feel free to send me an e-mail with your intentions.
Thanks in advance Mark Howie Long