VISION
To be the Best Junior Hockey program in Canada
MISSION STATEMENT
Provide the mentorship, opportunities and challenges needed to develop individuals of leadership, integrity and character.
HOW DO WE DO THIS?
- Engagement with the Community
- Required Weekly Volunteer Involvement
- One-on-One Leadership Coaching on and off the Ice
- Educational Advisor Assisting with College Requirements
- NCAA/CIS Scout Exposure
- NCAA Division 1 Team Road Trip/Tour/Presentation
- Chaplaincy Program with Mental/Spiritual Support
- Billet Coordinator who Assists in Finding Intentional Homes
- Gym Access with Accountability
- Team Off-Ice Training Program
- Quality Coaches and Staff
- Skilled Teammates Creating Competitive Environment
- New Equipment Provided
- Improved Video Feed to assist College Recruitment/Better Fan Viewing
- Professional Dressing Room
WHY DO WE DO THIS?
Our objective is for our players to realize who he is through personal development both on and off the ice. Our goal is to see each player reach their full potential as young men and as players, while pursuing our team goal of a National Championship.
Player Development
ATHLETE CENTERED PLANNING
The coordinator teaches players to create an individualized goal-setting plan which includes long term and short term personal goals for hockey, off-ice interests and their future (career, schooling, etc.).
EDUCATIONAL PLANNING
The coordinator guides and support the players throughout the season in regards to their current and future education plans which also includes informing and preparing players for college SAT/ACT exams.
COLLEGE RECRUITMENT
The coordinator works with the player to market themselves to suitable colleges by creating a cover letter and a player profile/resume which highlights the player’s achievements and skills. College coaches have shared with us that players who create their own interest, as well as having great coach references, are more likely to be pursued than players who do not put an effort into their own recruitment.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
The coordinator works with other Pistons staff to help create learning opportunities for the players in the following areas:
- Servant Leadership: volunteer opportunities in and around the Steinbach area
- Mentoring: visiting schools and helping at local hockey practices where players learn the importance of being a role model to kids.
- Self-Leadership: the development of the athlete centered plan and process of achieving their goals allow the players to develop this skill.
- Group Leadership: This includes meetings among the group captains, team areas (ex. Defenseman, power play etc.) and discussion of how to be a leader on a sports team and amongst a group of people.
POST SECONDARY FUNDING
Our program will support our players up to a maximum of $2,000 on his post secondary classes while with the team. This furthers our commitment on creating opportunities for our players off the ice.
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Each player, regardless whether they are involved in school, work, or regular volunteering during the week, is expected to volunteer one hour a week somewhere in the community; preferable in areas of interest. Players learn to give back to the community and discover the overwhelming satisfaction and benefits of volunteerism.
PLAYER ADVANCEMENT
The organization is always looking for new ways to advance the development of players. One of those ways is through our video coach Graham Pollock, who is constantly breaking down game video to review one-on-one or in a group setting. The Pistons also have a partnership with Snap Fitness, providing all the players with free gym access during the year. Along with that, the Pistons’ create and facilitate a team off ice training program.
BILLET PROGRAM
Our organization created and maintains a lengthy Billet Manual that consists of our organizations rules and regulations in the requirements and expectations needed to host a Steinbach Pistons player. Stacy Froese, our billet coordinator, facilitates this manual and is diligent in seeking intention billet homes that are eager to have a player join their family.
HockeyTV: CREATE A BETTER PRODUCTION
We are always looking to take the next steps in improving our HockeyTV Production. HockeyTV is an online video broadcast service of our games. This service is terrific in raising awareness for player recruitment, and increasing the viewing experience for fans abroad.
PISTONS COMMUNITY EVENTS
Another way the Pistons get engaged with the community is through team events such as the Pistons Fire & Ice Banquet, Golf Tournament, Meet the Pistons, Power Camp, ‘Hockey in the City’ Street Hockey Tournament and Steinbach’s annual ‘Summer in The City’ and Pioneer Days Parade.
CHAPEL/SUPPORT PROGRAM
The Hockey Chapel program offers a safe, emotional and spiritual place for players regardless of one’s personal church or non-church perspective to talk about life, hockey, and spiritual matters. Chapels are held every other week during the regular season prior to practice. Attendance is voluntary.