The Coach’s Secret Weapon: Developing Coachable Players

As a hockey coach, you know that success on the ice isn’t just about having the most talented players. It’s about cultivating a team that’s eager to learn, adapt, and grow—a team full of coachable players. But what exactly does it mean to be coachable, and why is it such a critical factor in both individual and team success?

Coachable players are the ones who take feedback and turn it into fuel for improvement. They’re the players who listen intently, apply what they’ve learned, and always strive to be better. These are the athletes who, no matter their natural skill level, have the potential to reach the highest levels of performance.

In this article, we’ll explore why coachability is a game-changer and offer practical strategies to help you instill this invaluable trait in your players. With insights from some of the game’s top coaches, you’ll gain the tools to not only build better players but to create a culture of continuous improvement and success.

How Coaches Can Cultivate Coachable Players

Developing coachable players isn’t just about telling them to listen and learn—it requires a thoughtful approach from coaches. By modeling the right behaviors, setting clear expectations, and providing constructive feedback, you can foster an environment where coachability thrives. Here’s how:

1. Model the Behavior

As a coach, your actions speak louder than words. If you expect your players to be coachable, it’s crucial that you demonstrate coachability yourself. Show your team that you’re open to feedback, whether it’s from fellow coaches, players, or even your own reflections. When players see you actively learning and adapting, they’re more likely to mirror that behavior.

2. Set Clear Expectations

Define what it means to be coachable from the start. Outline the specific behaviors you expect, such as listening attentively, applying feedback, and maintaining a positive attitude even when faced with challenges. Make it clear that coachability is just as important as physical skills on the ice.

3. Provide Constructive Feedback

Feedback is a powerful tool, but only if it’s delivered effectively. Instead of focusing solely on what a player is doing wrong, provide actionable advice on how they can improve. For example, rather than saying, “Your positioning is off,” try, “If you adjust your body position slightly, you’ll be in a better position to make the play.” This approach not only corrects mistakes but also empowers players to take ownership of their development.

4. Encourage a Growth Mindset

Teach your players to view mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures. When a player makes a mistake, use it as a chance to discuss what went wrong and how they can do better next time. By fostering a growth mindset, you help players understand that improvement is a continuous process, and that being coachable is key to unlocking their full potential.

5. Recognize and Reward Coachability

Positive reinforcement goes a long way in building coachable players. When you see a player applying feedback, staying resilient after criticism, or showing a willingness to learn, acknowledge it. This not only reinforces the behavior in that player but also sets an example for the rest of the team.

Advice for Players on Being Coachable

Becoming a coachable player is one of the most important things you can do to succeed in hockey. It’s not just about following instructions—it’s about showing that you’re willing to learn, improve, and contribute to the team. Here’s how you can make sure you’re the kind of player every coach wants on their team:

1. Stay Open-Minded

The best players are those who are always willing to learn. Even if you’ve been playing for years, there’s always something new to discover. Whether it’s a new technique, strategy, or position, approach every piece of advice with an open mind. Remember, your coach has a wealth of experience and sees the game from a different perspective. Trust that they’re guiding you in the right direction.

2. Ask Questions

Being coachable doesn’t mean you should just nod and agree with everything your coach says. If you don’t understand something or want to learn more, ask questions. This shows that you’re engaged and eager to improve. Coaches appreciate players who are curious and want to deepen their understanding of the game.

3. Be Resilient

Not all feedback is easy to hear, but it’s essential for growth. When your coach gives you constructive criticism, take it in stride. Don’t get discouraged or defensive—use it as motivation to get better. Remember, every player makes mistakes; what matters is how you respond to them. Show your coach that you’re resilient and determined to improve.

4. Respect the Coach’s Role

Your coach is there to help you succeed, but that relationship works best when there’s mutual respect. Understand that your coach has a broader view of the team’s needs and goals. Even if you don’t always agree with their decisions, respect their role and trust their judgment. Showing respect is a key part of being coachable and will go a long way in earning your coach’s trust and support.

5. Apply What You’ve Learned

Feedback is only valuable if you act on it. After receiving advice or instruction, make a conscious effort to apply it in practice and games. This shows your coach that you’re serious about improving and that you’re willing to put in the work. The more you apply what you’ve learned, the more you’ll improve—and the more coachable you’ll become.

Last minute of play...

Coachability is more than just a desirable trait—it’s the foundation of long-term success in hockey. As a coach, your ability to cultivate this quality in your players can significantly impact their development and the overall success of your team. By modeling coachable behavior, setting clear expectations, and providing constructive feedback, you create an environment where players are motivated to learn and grow.

For players, being coachable isn’t just about earning a spot on the team; it’s about unlocking their full potential and becoming the best version of themselves. By staying open-minded, asking questions, and applying what they’ve learned, players can transform feedback into growth and mistakes into opportunities.

Ultimately, coachable players are the ones who drive a team forward, adapting to challenges and continuously improving. By focusing on developing this trait in your players, you’re not just building a better team—you’re building a culture of excellence that will endure long after the final buzzer sounds.

What coaches and players have to say about this…

Scotty Bowman:

• "The key to success is having players who are not only skilled but are willing to be coached. The players who think they know it all are the ones who struggle the most."

  
  

John Tortorella:

• "A coachable player is a dream for any coach. It’s not about how much you know, it’s about how much you’re willing to learn and apply. That’s what separates the good from the great."

Hayley Wickenheiser:

• "Coachability is one of the most important traits for any player. If you’re willing to listen, adapt, and learn, you can always get better. Talent is great, but without being coachable, it’s hard to reach your full potential."

Marie-Philip Poulin :

• "A coachable player is someone who’s always looking to grow. It’s not just about doing what the coach says; it’s about understanding why and making it work for you and your team."

Hilary Knight:

• "The most successful players are those who are open to learning, no matter how much they’ve already achieved. Being coachable means you’re constantly evolving and never settling."