By Ted Suihkonen • 04 Jul, 2020 •

If there is one trait that is looked for by coaches and scouts at all levels when analyzing a player, it is that elusive Hockey IQ. Elusive because it is incredibly difficult to define, indeed, some even suggest that it is impossible to teach, but it is that adaptability that some players have that means they always end up in the right position, whatever zone the play is happening in. It may be difficult to clearly define, but most coaches know it when they see it, and one thing is sure, it is an ability that really elevates the play of anyone who can master it, and offers a greater chance of a successful hockey career. Can someone teach Hockey IQ to a player? Some say no, because they believe that it is an innate ability and that is that. Plenty disagree with that. They key to gaining that Hockey IQ is true understanding of the game, recognizing situations as well as patterns that have been practiced, as well as studied, and knowing what the likely outcome is and positioning appropriately. That sounds easy when written in a single sentence, and of course it is not, but with concise work, invested time within varying repetitions, situational knowledge combined with understanding of the team’s play style can be built up to improve Hockey IQ over time. This is a balancing act however, whilst repetition allows that situational knowledge to build, and combined with the teams play style will mean an individual will know where to be as the game unfolds in any zone. The danger is focusing solely on that during the game (making the conscious mind to read and make decisions), losing the adaptability and spontaneous action that makes the exceptional players what they are. Meaning we have to build up the subconscious mind to handle these patterns and situations, which means that they have had to have been built up in practice. Hockey IQ should not define the player’s game, rather it should become second nature and reinforce the skill sets that any player already possesses. Ensuring that the players adaptability and natural skills are not masked by the need to shift to the perfect position constantly. Being able to teach Hockey IQ is still hotly debated amongst coaches. The situational knowledge gained through varying repetition does work, however, it is our ability to provide the right information to the player and asking questions. It’s all about getting their perspectives first, so we can dive into their head and understand what they are seeing. Remember, they are in the action, and see things from a different perspective. Making the right decisions as play progresses is paramount, this is what separates the average from the good, and the good from the great players. Making the right decisions with and without the puck. The skill that must be taught is all within the reading what you are seeing and anticipating, dictating the play. Players that don’t do this simply react as the game unfolds putting them behind the play, and playing catch up. To help instill this kind of ability lies within the coaches, and how much they actually put players into situations that are rich in information. Remember, repetitions are key, but they must be in varying as the game itself is constantly changing. Teaching that situational knowledge is a challenge, it is time consuming and by its nature very repetitious, but there is no question that the end result is improved players who have a much greater chance of success as hockey players than those who do not practice or try and develop it. #SkillsThatTranslate