Welcome to the 2024/2025 St. Thomas Stars U9MD Program!
I’m Bryan Rodney, and I’m honored to be the head coach for the upcoming season. As we gear up for an exciting hockey year, I want to share my enthusiasm for this role, outline my coaching philosophy, and provide you with essential tryout information. My goal is to foster a positive and inclusive environment where our team can thrive both on and off the ice.
A bit about me: I was born and raised in London, Ontario, and navigated the minor hockey system before spending seventeen years playing Junior and Professional hockey. After many memorable experiences, I’m eager to give back and share my knowledge with the next generation of players.
This season, our focus will be on introducing competitive MD hockey while emphasizing development and fun. As per Hockey Canada, we’ll start with half-ice games, competing four-on-four until January, after which we will transition to full-ice games. Our emphasis will be on building teamwork through active participation in both on-ice and off-ice activities.
Coaching Philosophy
My approach is grounded in four key principles:
-
Listening: Open communication is vital. I encourage players to listen actively and communicate with their coaches and teammates, ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard and valued.
-
Best Effort: I believe in the power of hard work. Players will be encouraged to give their best in every practice, game, and drill. Emphasis will be placed on perseverance and learning from both successes and setbacks. Individual skill development is crucial, as strong individual skills contribute to team success.
-
Being a Good Teammate: Teamwork is at the core of my coaching philosophy. I will model the importance of supporting and respecting teammates, fostering camaraderie and unity to build a strong foundation for team success.
-
Respect for Sport: I aim to instill a deep respect for hockey, including respect for the rules, officials, opponents, and the integrity of the game.
By adhering to these principles, I believe we can achieve success both on and off the ice. My goal is to develop not only skilled hockey players but also well-rounded individuals who exemplify sportsmanship, teamwork, and perseverance.
Tryout Information
To ensure everyone is prepared, please review the following tryout details:
Prep Skates/Tryout Times and Locations: Prep skates are optional. If you choose to attend, please register through the STMHA.net website.
-
Tues, September 3rd – 5:15-6:15 pm at Joe Thornton CC (Prep Skate #1)
-
Wed, September 4th – 5:00-6:00 pm at Joe Thornton CC (Prep Skate #2)
-
Sat, September 7th – 10:45-11:45 am at Joe Thornton CC (Prep Skate #3)
-
Sun, September 8th – 9:30-10:30 am at Joe Thornton CC (Prep Skate #4)
-
Mon, September 9th – 5:00-6:00 pm at Joe Thornton CC (Tryout #1)
-
Tues, September 10th – 5:30-6:30 pm at Joe Thornton CC (Tryout #2)
-
Thurs, September 12th – 5:45-6:45 pm at Joe Thornton CC (Tryout #3)
-
Sat, September 14th – 1:30 pm at Port Stanley Arena (Scrimmage Game vs. West London)
-
Tues, September 17th – 6:00 pm at Bostwick Star Tech Arena (Scrimmage Game vs. West London)
Equipment: Players should bring all necessary equipment to every session, including a filled, clearly labeled water bottle. Jerseys will be provided during tryouts.
Player Selection: The team will consist of 2 goalies, 9 forwards and 6 defense. Players will be evaluated by the coaching staff and third-party evaluators. Selection will be based on performance during tryouts, emphasizing hockey skills (e.g., skating, shooting, passing, defending, and conditioning) and non-tangible qualities (e.g., creativity, hockey sense, positioning, hustle, focus, listening, resilience, and coachability).
Please check the team’s website for updates throughout the tryout period, including release lists. I understand tryouts can be stressful for both players and parents. If you have any questions or concerns about the process or commitment, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me.
I look forward to seeing everyone at tryouts and thank you, in advance, for your support in creating a positive and enriching hockey experience this season.
Here’s to a successful and enjoyable hockey season!
Sincerely,
Bryan Rodney
Head Coach, U9 Jr. Stars
[email protected]