Skill Pillar

Coachability

Coachability turns feedback into faster growth. It’s the combination of body language, communication, and the ability to apply adjustments under pressure.

Coach diagramming a drill with a young player leaning in
Being coachable means leaning in, asking clarifying questions, and showing that the correction will show up on the very next rep.

Snapshot

Definition

Players with high coachability absorb information quickly and implement it without taking feedback personally. They use open body language, maintain eye contact, and summarize instructions before stepping back into the drill.

Key Behaviors

  • Active listening stance
  • Clarifying questions
  • Immediate application
  • Positive response to correction
  • Shares feedback with linemates
  • Logs adjustments in notebook

Feedback Loop

Build a 3-step routine: Listen → Repeat the cue → Deliver the change. Finishing the loop tells coaches they can trust you in special situations.

Training Blueprint

On-Ice Implementation

  • Run Feedback Reps: after instruction, execute the drill twice—first to apply the cue, second to exaggerate it.
  • During scrimmages, assign a partner to provide one actionable note on every shift change.
  • Use whiteboard time to restate your role (“I’m F2, drive middle lane and hunt pucks”).

Film & Note System

Keep a dedicated coachability page in your notebook.

  • Write down the cue, the drill, and how you felt doing it.
  • Add a “next game” box—what situation will you apply it to?
  • Review with a teammate after 48 hours to confirm the change stuck.

Communication Habits

Practice concise, respectful language.

  • Use phrases like “Copy, I’ll widen earlier” or “Can you watch my first step next rep?”
  • Close the loop—check in with the staff after practice on big adjustments.
  • Share positive reinforcement with teammates to set the tone.

Peer Review Checklist

Have a teammate rate each statement 1-5. Anything below 4 becomes a focus for the week.

  • Body language stays open (gloves off stick, shoulders square) when receiving feedback.
  • Repeats or reframes instructions before executing.
  • Implements corrections on the next rep without excuses.
  • Encourages teammates to chase the same standard.
  • Seeks feedback proactively when unsure about a role.

Video Study

Watch with your team notebook nearby—capture the coaching cue used and how the player responds.

Matt Mangene Talks about Being Coachable. Hear how an AHL veteran adapted to new roles and kept making rosters. Open on YouTube

Helping Players Become Coachable. Youth coaching tips that also apply at older levels—note the language cues parents and coaches use. Open on YouTube

The 3 Factors to Gauge Coachability. Short breakdown of awareness, attitude, and action—use it as a quick pre-practice reminder. Open on YouTube

Cutting Edge Ice Academy

Be the Most Coachable Player on the Ice

Use guided sessions that emphasize feedback loops and teachable reps so you can absorb and apply instruction quickly.

View the Full Schedule

Small Group Training

Train in tight coach-to-player ratios that allow for immediate corrections and detailed teaching on every rep.

Level Up Skills Camp

Blend skill stations with coach-led video so you can translate pointers into game-speed execution the same day.

1-on-1 Training

Customize each session around recent feedback so you show up to practice ready to implement adjustments.

Additional Resources

Worksheet

Feedback Journal Template

Print a weekly log to capture cues, feelings, and follow-up questions.

Download template
Article

USA Hockey – The Value of Being Coachable

Short read for players and parents on why response matters more than skill.

Read on USAHockey.com
Conversation

Post-Practice Debrief

Set a five-minute meeting with your position coach once a week to align on upcoming focuses.

Guide from PCA
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