AGILE ICE HOCKEY MANIFESTO

In March 2022, in Centennial Colorado, roughly 150 years after its invention -depending on who you ask, when they answer, and in what context you consider a game to have been invented – one independent thinker, self-described as “The Agilists Coach” sat thinking, relaxing on a couch listening to the National Hockey Leagues trade deadline deals unfolding every few minutes. With history unfolding before his eyes, having played himself, and as a longtime fan, he stopped pucking around and wrote down some thoughts.

What emerged was the Agile Ice Hockey Manifesto, a set of principles that some may find comical, otherworldly, and/or pure genius. Others may not.

Our highest priority is to win the Stanley Cup through early and continuous acquisition of quality players, fantastic coaching, and non-stop competitiveness.
Welcome changing rosters, even late in the season. Agile ice hockey teams harness change for the their competitive advantage.
Score a lot of goals, from a couple a game to a dozen if needed, with a preference for more frequently.
Coaches and Players must train together regularly throughout the season.
Build teams around motivated individuals. Give them the environment and support they need, and trust them to get the job done.
The most efficient and effective method of perfecting play within a hockey team is regular practice.
Making and winning in the playoffs is the primary measure of success.
Agile line combinations promote sustainable pressure on the ice. The forwards, defensemen, and goalies should be able to maintain a constant pace indefinitely.
Continuous attention to technical excellence and well-designed plays enhances agility.
Simplicity–the art of maximizing the amount of effort not needed–is essential.
The best hits, plays, blocks, and saves emerge from selfless teams.
At regular practices, the team reflects on how to become more effective, then tunes and adjusts its behavior accordingly.