Bobby Acri is a notable figure in the hockey world, influencing players and teams through his coaching and experience. His insights and methods provide valuable lessons for aspiring players and coaches alike.
The Coaching Influence of Mike Monti
Mike Monti joined the Storm in the fall of 2020 and returned for his second season as the Head Coach of the U18 team. Monti began coaching at his alma mater, Western New England University, in 2009, serving as an Assistant Coach and Recruiting Coordinator. He helped revitalize the team to become one of the most competitive programs in the ECAC-Northeast Conference. From 2012-15, Monti served as the Director of Hockey Operations for The University of Vermont (Hockey East). During that time, the Catamounts reached the NCAA National Tournament (2014), and The Hockey East Championship (2015), while posting back-to-back 20 win seasons.
In the fall of 2015, Monti became the Assistant Coach at Williams College (NESCAC). The team finished first overall in the league in 2015-16, reaching the NCAA Elite Eight, had the NESCAC Player of the Year, an All-American, and several All-NESCAC player honors. In 2017-18, Monti served as Head Coach of Williams, while Bill Kangas was on sabbatical. In his first season as head coach, the team finished with 14 wins, and advanced all the way to the NESCAC semifinal. From 2018-20, Monti coached in New England Prep School Hockey, where 12 of his former players committed to Division I/III schools over the course of two seasons. Monti graduated from Western New England University in 2009 with degrees in Management and Psychology.
Player Development and Training
Andrew Trimble is the author of The Hockey Planner, a new coaching book available on Amazon. He offers valuable drills and insights for player development.
Trimble’s Drill of the Week
- BU 6 Line Fun drill: Designed to get players moving and warmed up, and also increase communication within the team.
- 2 Lap Warmup Variations: Different warmup routines to keep players engaged and prepared.
These drills emphasize the importance of communication, movement, and preparation in hockey training.
Read also: Features of Custom Hockey Gloves
Chicago 5 Puck Warm-Up Hockey Drill For Full Team
Common Pitfalls and Misconceptions
It is time to Retire the Comment “Everyone Ends Up in Men’s League”. It is time to Retire the Comment “Everyone Ends Up in Men’s League”.
The phrase "Well everyone ends up in Mens League anyway" or this variation, "All roads lead to Beer League" can be disheartening for aspiring players. Such comments should be avoided to foster a more positive and aspirational environment.
The Importance of Roster Sizes
We’ve all read Horror Stories or “Death Pool” stories about teams with either inflated or shrunken roster sizes. Will your team make it? The Truth about Roster Sizes.
Maintaining an optimal roster size is crucial for team success. Both inflated and shrunken rosters can lead to challenges. Teams must carefully manage their roster to ensure balance and competitiveness.
James Friedman: An Aspiring Hockey Player
James Friedman is a young hockey player with aspirations of playing Division I hockey. He is a right wing and left wing, standing at 6'0" and weighing 180lbs.
Read also: The story of Craig Needham
Personal Statement:
“Hello, I am James Friedman and my goal is to play division one hockey. I would be a good candidate for any team because of my ability to listen to the coach and be able to grow as a player. I am coachable. I am different from everywhere else because of my work ethic. When I started hockey I was never on the highest team. Over the years, I pushed myself to become better and better each year so that I could be on the top team. This year I am on the best team in my club and I want to keep growing as a player. That is a brief statement about me. Thank you.”
Athletics:
James has three seasons of club experience:
- 2022 New Trier High School (High School): Made it to sweet 16, only two teams from new trier made it that far. Won all star game mvp this year.
- 2021 New Trier Varsity (High school ): Made it to sweet 16 as the lowest ranked team in state history. Scored gwg in first state tournament game against 13th seed brother rice
- 2019 Winnetka Hockey (IL) (AA)
James's journey reflects his dedication and work ethic, as he consistently improved to reach the top team in his club.
Read also: Inside Aaron Ness's Career
Academics
James attends New Trier High School in Illinois, which has an enrollment of 5000 students. He is in honor classes, demonstrating his commitment to academic excellence alongside his athletic pursuits.
