All ice sessions emphasize learning through fun and the technical aspects of each drill are designed to build a strong foundation in balance, edge control, agility, speed, and efficient transitions. While each drill is providing technical development for all skaters they are disguised in fun and games.

 

AHS Curriculum

 

1. Edge control & balance exercises developing control over inside and outside edges is fundamental to on ice stability and power. Every AHS session has a detailed edge component.

2. Agility, Speed & Transitions (V - starts, x-over starts, back starts)

3. Hockey Stance Adaptation - tailored to skater’s age, size and body type

4. Hip Position, Arm Placement & Movement, Torso Position and Movement through all skills 

5. Phases of the Hockey Stride - Understanding the stride in detail helps refine each phase for maximum power and control.

Initial Contact

Single Support Glide

Single Support Propulsion

Terminal Stride (Triple Extension) – Full extension of hip, knee, and ankle

Recovery

7. Weight Distribution on the blade through all skills

8. Deweighting is the skill of easing pressure off one or both skates to trigger movement more effectively. It may seem like a small adjustment, but it's a key part of high-level skating. When done right, it makes skating feel smoother, faster, and more under control. It helps with quick changes in direction, sharper transitions, and quicker stride recovery.

You’ll see this technique used in advanced moves like deceptive fakes or protecting the puck—where small weight shifts can throw off a defender. In tight spaces, being able to quickly lift weight off a skate allows a player to reposition without overcommitting, giving better balance and control.

Deweighting also plays a big role in edge work. Switching between inside and outside edges becomes much easier when pressure is managed well. By avoiding too much stress on any single joint or edge during high-force movements, it can help reduce the risk of injury. 

9. Proper stick position on all skating skills ensuring optimal opportunities and limiting errors in game situations.

10. Puck control throughout  all skating skills - puck are introduced once a skating skill is at a proficient level. 

11. Skate fit and proper skate lace tying technique (may seem silly but MANY skaters can improve in this area), supportive skate fit, the correct amount of lace tension and the right sharpening for individual skating needs.