As coaches, how can we instill our team with one of the most important skills in the game: hockey IQ? Joining us today is Troy Smith, the owner of Hockey IQ – an outstanding, elite video breakdown resource for hockey players and coaches alike. Our conversation is all about hockey IQ + how we can teach and improve it. We’ll dive deep into the X’s and O’s of the game, breaking down game patterns and principles with Troy’s expert eye. Whether you’re training the next generation of athletes or working with professionals at the NHL-level, this episode will equip you with the knowledge they need to play at their smartest. HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 How do you write better programs as a young coach? 04:35 Who were the mentors + influences that shaped you? 10:55 The difficulties of transitioning from player to coach. 15:25 How to develop your craft as a young coach. 18:00 How do you navigate a hard tragedy? 21:30 Strategies for teaching + improving hockey IQ. 25:35 Breaking down game patterns and principles. 34:00 How to teach D-Zone skills to young + pro players. 39:35 What are basic concepts for the neutral zone? 45:15 The NHL-level patterns of the O-Zone. 47:45 How to utilize shared terminology with your team. 49:50 What is your vision with Hockey IQ? RESOURCES + LINKS Check out Hockey IQ - https://www.hockeyiq.ca Follow Hockey IQ on Instagram | @hockeyiqcan For questions and more info, just Email - [email protected]   Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -  The High Performance Hockey Masterclass   Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov   Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast   Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/   Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players