Chris Pryor
Keep your head up!
- Details
- Last Updated on Sunday, 27 May 2012 23:31
By Chris Pryor
In an earlier article I talked about concussions and how the game has seen a steady rise in these types of injuries. Over the next few months of seeing hit after hit resulting in concussion after concussion, I feel the need to address not only the one delivering the hit, but the player receiving the hit.
A lot has been made about the rules and what needs to be done about trying to make the game safer – which are all urgent and valuable conversations – BUT I feel we also need to address the responsibility of the player with the puck, too. Somewhere, the puck carrier has lost the sense of danger to the point where now he or she is constantly is putting themselves in vulnerable situations and the outcome usually is bad.
How do I get into scouting/management?
- Details
- Last Updated on Sunday, 27 May 2012 23:31
By Chris Pryor
Unfortunately, this is not an easy question to answer and has no magic solution other than like most jobs, it usually comes down to preparation and opportunity (being in the right place at the right time). As in the business world by having a degree and a strong resume, in the scouting world that usually is associated with having a background of some playing time.
If you were to analyze the make-up of the 30 NHL teams’ scouting departments, the one constant that stands out is there are an abundant amount of ex-players scouting. In saying this, it is not necessarily something that is required, but it sure helps – not only from a resume standpoint but also just an overall feel for the game. There is a lot to be said for the “been there done that.” Some of the things that scouts look for are hard to explain unless you’ve actually been there at some point in your own career.
What can you learn from the pros?
- Details
- Last Updated on Sunday, 27 May 2012 23:31
By Chris Pryor
The next time you are at a Wild game or watching a game on TV, instead of just watching the game, pick an individual player and watch him for the game.
Watch how he skates, handles the puck, reads the play and his whole game. After seeing him play, think about all of the work and dedication that it takes to get to that level.
How can I improve my shot and skating?
- Details
- Last Updated on Sunday, 27 May 2012 23:31
By Chris Pryor
Unlike some other sports that you can literally play anywhere at anytime of the year, hockey is somewhat unique. It’s hard to play the game, or practice for that matter, without ice and especially when it comes to skating.
Now, as for strength issues, those can be improved with off-ice training, but if you really want to get better at skating you need to be on the ice, plain and simple. There are some quality people in the metro area that run good programs that should be considered if you are truly serious on improving your skating.
When does a player decide what position to play?
- Details
- Last Updated on Sunday, 27 May 2012 23:31
By Chris Pryor
When are you a defenseman or a center? At what age is this decided? And to who is this decision up to? These are some of the questions that players/parents are faced with.
