The USA Hockey National Satellite Program first started in the late 1980's by Jack Blatherwick, one of the U.S. Olympic coaches in Minnesota. The purpose was to train players for higher levels of play, with the possibility that some of these players may be chosen to represent the United States in International Competition.
Massachusetts under the direction of Dan Esdale and Coaching Director Joe Mallen brought the program east and expanded the age groups from 18 yr olds down to 13 year olds.
They decided to start with younger players reasoning that good training habits could be of greater benefit if they were practiced at a younger age. With the success of the program at the 13-year-old level the 12-year-old level was added in 1998 with 86 year-of birth.
Since the expansion of this program Massachusetts has returned to its position at the pinnacle of player development in the U.S.
Mission
train players at the highest level…
maximize each individual's potential through well-founded physiological and psychological precepts…
bring together players of potential abilities with top coaches from USA Hockey, High School, Juniors, College and Professional hockey…
elevate knowledge of the sport and how to train...
instill a work ethic, how to sacrifice, demonstrate what it takes to reach the next level...
educate players and parents as to the benefits of periodization training and those distracters that have been scientifically determined to be counter productive hockey related activities…
stress the importance of character, behavior, attitude,self-discipline, and focus in success...
foster a passion for the game…
encourage creativity…
Objectives
On-ice training and preparation modeled after US National, Olympic, and college hockey sessions.
Off-ice training program that focuses on specificity exercise.
Through intensity of work.
Through a positive atmosphere, one that employs encouragement ,fun and enjoyment of participation.
