The Tale of the Tape

The Tale of the Tape

We all watch our favorite NHL stars play each night that we can. It is always a treat to see how the best of the best perform, and how the games lead innovators create something out of nothing and give us all something crazy to try next time we step on the ice. Now more than ever, creativity is paramount in separating the best from the great. The way these players find something to try, and produce the newest skating or puck maneuver, is to watch themselves. Kids have homework, some parents bring work home, NHL professionals watch film.

Watching film has many benefits for players, coaches, as well as parents. We can all see how watching film benefits those participating in the games. Rewatching a previous game allows players and coaches to take a step back and see things from a third person view, typically high above the rink, to get a different perspective. Now things that players or coaches may have missed can be viewed and annotated to help the athletes and the team strive towards their goals. It can be a great tool for parents as well. Sitting in on a film session or even watching and talking with their athletes while they watch film can help parents, especially those who did not experience the game at their younger ages learn nuances of the game that they may have never realized before.

A lot of times, film is introduced at the younger ages during youth hockey tournaments. It is a great time for teams when they have extra time in the hotel room to get together and watch one of their previous games. As players get older, its less about watching full games and more about watching very quick clips to help facilitate learning and good habits within systematic play and other details the coach is trying to push across to his or her players. Learning from one’s self is a habit that can be translated from the NHL to any professional or amateur team out there.