President Mark — Even in the NHL. U11–U14 · Shooting · Theme 2 of 8.
President Mark’s U11–U14 shooting lesson connects an NHL example to a specific conversation between Coach and Player, and between Coach and Parent. Johnny believes every shot that does not score was a bad decision.
The immediate learning goal is: Explain the shot and pass options separately from the result. These are suggested THR conversations. They are not quotations from NHL Coaches or a claim that children should perform at NHL speed.
Begin with the NHL perspective
Alex Ovechkin recorded 65 goals on 446 shots on goal in 2007–08. That leaves 381 shots on goal that did not score. Capitals statistical record.
Those 381 were not 381 missed nets or proven bad decisions. Shots on goal include goals and saved shots; missed and blocked attempts are different categories. Evaluate the chance before correcting the shooter.
Why the instruction fits U11–U14
Listen to the Player’s read. Separate a reasonable idea with poor execution from a pass forced through a closed lane.
For this lesson, keep the target narrow: Explain the shot and pass options separately from the result. The Player should understand the action and have a suitable chance to try it. Adjust the pace and difficulty to experience, rather than assuming everyone in the age group is ready for the same pressure.
Coach Q&A: what should I say to the Player?
Coach: “Even NHL scorers have good shots stopped. Johnny, that was an open chance. Where could the rebound go?”
Johnny: “If I was better, that shot would have gone in.”
Coach: “Explain the shot and pass options separately from the result. Tell me what you notice on the next attempt.”
Listen to the real explanation before choosing the correction. Check whether the problem was the read, the execution, an opponent’s play or an unclear instruction.
Coach to Parent: explain the same lesson
Parent: “Should he always pass after missing a few chances?”
Coach: “Even NHL scorers have good shots stopped. Johnny will compare the shot and pass options, then work on one decision or skill. The learning goal is simple: Explain the shot and pass options separately from the result. What I will watch for is this: Johnny can describe a reasonable option and identify one adjustment.”
Support at home: Ask whether the Player wants to talk, then let them describe the lesson before offering advice.
Practice it with U11–U14 Players
1. Create a small-area situation with a shooter, teammate and defender.
2. Let the Player choose a shot or a pass from the actual opening.
3. Ask what was available, then repeat one decision or execution detail.
Begin with a level of difficulty where the Player can notice and attempt the cue. Increase pressure when the action is understood.
What recovery looks like
Johnny can describe a reasonable option and identify one adjustment.
Notice the adjustment specifically. A useful next action can occur even if the next result is imperfect. If the same difficulty returns, change the demonstration, the practice conditions or the amount of information.
Keep the expectation clear: The NHL comparison does not mean every shot is a good shot. If a better passing option was clearly available, teach that read.
U11–U14 Parent quiz
Johnny believes every shot that does not score was a bad decision. According to this U11–U14 lesson, which next step connects NHL perspective to a useful recovery action?
A. Require a goal on the next attempt to prove improvement.
B. Treat every saved shot as evidence of a poor decision.
C. Compare every child’s scoring rate with an NHL scorer.
D. Review the available options and one execution detail.
Show the answer and explanation
Answer D. This matches the U11–U14 learning goal: Explain the shot and pass options separately from the result. Johnny can describe a reasonable option and identify one adjustment.
Take one conversation to the rink
The shared message is: Even NHL scorers have good shots stopped. Explain the shot and pass options separately from the result. The Coach teaches the action; the Parent understands the focus and supports the Player’s next opportunity.
In House League, the primary objective is to have fun. Advancement programs should explain role expectations honestly. In every setting, speak respectfully and make the next instruction clear.
See this theme across all five age groups. · Explore President Mark’s complete Even in the NHL series.
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