High Performance Series Camps
Structured progressions on breathing, reset routines, and clutch execution alongside high-tempo drills.
Skill Pillar
Mental Game
Confidence, composure, and focus are trainable. The mental game keeps your skills online when pressure hits.
Snapshot
Definition
Mental strength blends emotional regulation, confidence, and resilience. It allows you to respond to mistakes, thrive in big moments, and lead with calm energy.
Key Behaviors
- Uses pre-game routine
- Owns a reset cue
- Positive bench language
- Visualizes key plays
- Tracks mindset in journal
- Asks for help when needed
3-Breath Reset
Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 2, exhale for 6 while saying your cue word (e.g., “Next”). Repeat any time frustration hits.
Training Blueprint
Daily Routine
- Morning: gratitude list (3 items) and visualization (2 minutes).
- Pre-practice: breath reset + cue word while tying skates.
- Evening: jot one win and one lesson in a mindset journal.
Pressure Practice
- Simulate shootouts or last-minute power plays—set consequences for misses.
- Use “mistake response” drills: after an error, sprint to the blue line and rejoin with intent.
- Practice positive self-talk aloud—teammates can hear your cues.
Support System
- Schedule bi-weekly check-ins with coaches or captains.
- Create a buddy system for accountability texts on sleep, hydration, and mindset.
- Use guided meditation apps 3x a week for 5-7 minutes.
Peer Review Checklist
Great for leadership groups—score 1-5 each week.
- Body language rebounds quickly after mistakes.
- Voice is calm and solution-focused in huddles.
- Shows empathy—checks in with teammates when adversity hits.
- Stays engaged on the bench (no slumped shoulders or negative chatter).
- Completes personal routines consistently.
Video Study
Take notes on the routines or phrases you want to borrow.
Mental Toughness Foundations. Performance coach Sean Bacon shares strategies for staying composed under pressure. Open on YouTube
Mental Tips for Hockey. Practical advice on reframing pressure and using routines. Open on YouTube
Biggest Mental Mistake. Learn how athletes and coaches can avoid negative focus traps. Open on YouTube
Cutting Edge Ice Academy
Build Competitive Confidence
Training blocks pair intensity with mindset coaching so you stay composed when games tighten.
Johnny Hero’s Breakfast Club Camp
Early-morning grind that builds resilience, accountability, and positive routines before the day even starts.
1-on-1 Training
Personalized sessions to reinforce mental cues and confidence checkpoints tied to your role.
Additional Resources
Workbook
Hockey Mental Performance Journal
Printable template for goals, cues, and reflections.
Download PDF
Article
Mindfulness for Hockey Players
Why short meditation sessions reduce anxiety and improve execution.
Read on USAHockey.com
App
Lucid – Mental Training for Athletes
Guided audio sessions built specifically for sport confidence.
Explore app