While most high-school hockey players in the Philadelphia area are taking a break over the holidays, another group of young players is at center stage.
The 49th edition of International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Championship is underway in Ottawa. The 10-team field features players under age 20.
The entire tournament is available on the NHL Network, which provides an opportunity for players at other levels to observe the premier young talent in the sport.
North Penn coach Kevin Vaitis was asked what his players could learn from watching the tournament.
“If any of them are watching the World Junior, I would suggest just watching the decision making that takes place to try and raise the hockey awareness/hockey IQ of the players playing today,” he said. “Seeing players go to the net, dump pucks in and make line changes, etc. those are the small things that for the players competing in the World Juniors could be the difference in a win or a loss and therefore a medal or no medal.”
Springfield-Montco coach Don Quinn says his player could enhance their hockey knowledge by watching the World Junior.
“I would first of all hope that they just watch because you can learn a lot from just watching the game,” he said.
“And while watching, watch the players without the puck. Watch how each of them support the player with the puck.”
Penncrest coach Steve Mescanti listed four key points he wanted his players to take away from the tournament.
“Obviously, skill level of the players involved,” he said. “And puck movement. Rarely does a guy have the puck in his stick for more than two or three touches.
“Ice vision and hockey sense. Really tied to [puck movement] in a way, but the players are always looking to make a smart play. Of course, the hockey sense piece really comes in with play away from the puck.
“And intensity on the backcheck and puck pursuit.
Central Bucks South coach Shaun McGinty is encouraging his players to spend some time watching the World Juniors
“I hope my players are just enjoying the games with family and friends,” he said. “The level of play is just incredible.”
McGinty listed the key points he wanted his players to focus on.
“Hockey IQ and Decision-Making—By observing elite players, they can see how quickly decisions are made under pressure. I want them to notice how these players read plays and anticipate movements.
Effort and Compete Level— High-level hockey showcases relentless effort in every shift. I’d like my players to see how these athletes compete for every puck and battle in every corner, demonstrating that effort can often outweigh raw talent.
Positional Play and Systems—Watching structured hockey can reinforce the importance of systems and staying disciplined within them.
Puck Support and Communication—I encourage them to pay attention to how players support one another on the ice, both offensively and defensively. The constant communication, both verbal and non-verbal, is key to success at any level.
Work Ethic and Preparation—Observing the speed, strength, and precision at higher levels underscores the dedication it takes to compete. My players should understand that excellence is no accident—it’s the product of hard work, preparation, and commitment.
Finally, I hope they are inspired to put in the work and embrace the passion and joy these players show for the game.
A Word of Caution: As passionate as high-school hockey players are about their sport, there is the risk of them being totally consumed by it, particularly if they are playing club hockey and high-school hockey simultaneously.
North Penn coach Kevin Vaitis emphasis that the holidays are an opportunity for players to take a break from hockey.
“The break is important for two things,” he said. “One for these players to get a break from hockey, allow themselves to recharge for the stretch run and also spend time with family, friends, or just being a teenager. We cannot forget that these kids are on the ice six or seven days a week for some of them so giving them a break at this time is always good to rest up
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