Integrating Online Hockey Training into Team Practices: A Coach's Guide

Ian Smith
Jun 25
3 min read

As the game of hockey evolves, so must the methods we use to train players. Kellian Hockey in Vermont believes that building the foundation of hockey training involves more than just ice time; it’s about tapping into every available resource to help players grow.

Integrating online hockey training into your team’s regular practice routine can be a game-changer. In this guide, we’ll explore how you, as a coach, can combine the best of both worlds, on-ice intensity and online accessibility, to maximize your team’s development. Whether you're coaching youth hockey or elite players, this approach can elevate skillsets, boost hockey IQ, and foster year-round engagement.

The Rise of Online Hockey Training

A Revolution in Player Development

Digital platforms have transformed nearly every aspect of sports, and hockey is no exception. From video tutorials to real-time feedback, online hockey training offers players the ability to reinforce what they’ve learned and gain new insights even when they’re away from the rink.

Benefits of Going Virtual

Flexibility: Players can train on their own time, supplementing in-person sessions.
Individual Focus: Custom drills and video analysis allow for tailored feedback.
Repetition Without Ice Time: Skills like stickhandling, passing, and shooting can be drilled off-ice with expert guidance.
Affordable Access to Expertise: Coaches and players can learn from top-tier trainers from anywhere in the world.

How to Integrate Online Hockey Training into Team Practices

1. Start with a Hybrid Plan

Before diving in, evaluate your team’s schedule and identify areas where online training can fill gaps. This might include:

Pre-practice video breakdowns
Post-practice drill assignments
Off-day skills work using online modules

2. Use Online Tools for Hockey IQ Development

Tactical awareness is a major differentiator in high-level play. Use digital whiteboards, video clips, and online breakdowns to help players visualize:

Defensive zone coverage
Breakout strategies
Special teams execution

Pair these lessons with real-time drills during practice for better retention.

3. Assign Homework That Works

Yes, homework! Create weekly online assignments such as:

Stickhandling progressions
Off-ice balance drills
Game footage analysis with guided questions

4. Supplement Ice Time with At-Home Training

Not every team can afford unlimited rink time, especially in regions like Vermont, where access may be limited. Online hockey training allows players to continue growing between practices through:

Dryland skating mechanics
Shooting technique drills
Core strength and coordination workouts

This ensures that every minute on the ice is maximized for tactical and team-based execution.

Recommended Tools and Resources

Kellian Hockey Online Platform

Our platform offers:

Progressive training modules from basic to elite
Interactive video tutorials on skating, passing, and stickhandling
Hockey IQ modules that break down the “unwritten rules” of the game
Player assessments and video analysis tools

Explore our Online Skills Mastery Courses to get started.

Other Tools to Consider

Coach’s Eye: For video breakdowns
TeamSnap or Heja: For organizing schedules and assignments
Google Classroom or Slack: For assigning tasks and sharing resources

Pros & Cons of Integrating Online Hockey Training

Pros:

Reinforces learning outside of practice
Supports individual development within the team structure
Improves hockey IQ through visual and theoretical content
Enables consistent year-round growth
Cost-effective and scalable

Cons:

Requires discipline and self-motivation from players
May need parental support for younger athletes
Risk of content overload if not well-structured

Pro Tip: Set clear expectations and timelines. Start small and build as your players adapt to the blended model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Online Hockey Training Replace On-Ice Practice?

No, online hockey training is meant to complement, not replace, ice time. The best results come from using online resources to reinforce skills that are applied during physical practice.

What’s the Best Age Group for Online Training?

Players aged 10 and up tend to benefit most. Younger skaters may need parental help, but they can still gain value from visual demonstrations and fun off-ice drills.

How Often Should Players Use Online Modules?

We recommend 2–3 sessions per week outside of practice. Each session should focus on a specific skill or concept, not just general training.

Empower Your Players with the Best of Both Worlds

Integrating online hockey training into your team’s development plan doesn’t just give you more teaching tools; it builds smarter, more self-aware athletes. At Kellian Hockey in Vermont, we’re redefining how players approach the game by blending modern tech with time-tested coaching principles.

With our expert-led courses, practice-aligned modules, and commitment to holistic development, your team can unlock a new level of performance.