Tom Anderson has been with PCIM for seven years as head coach for 12U and 14U teams and was recently name as PCIM's Director of Development. Last season he was the co-head coach for 14U Tier 2. Tom’s bio is posted to our Coaches page. Check out this Q&A to get to know him better!
What excites you most about the role?
When you are the head coach, your main focus is developing the TEAM as a whole. In my opinion, my best strength is individual skill. I possess the ability to recognize individual strengths and weaknesses and develop drills to improve upon both. This role will allow me to focus more on the INDIVIDUAL skill set. I also experience representing and coaching the Ice Miners at a national level and competing in rich hockey cultures in place likes Colorado, Minnesota and Michigan. I have been able to recognize where our kids need development in order to compete and play in those settings.
What do youth players need to work on the most?
Youth players need to work on EDGE WORK. It is the foundation of the game. Once you are stable with edge work, everything else falls into place: stick handling, passing, receiving, shooting, creativity, etc. You can never do enough edge work. If you want to get better with stick handling, most likely you need to get better on your edges.
What are your goals for next season?
Have fun during skills sessions and, most importantly, get the kids to understand the importance of DETAILS. We can all get through a drill, but can players recognize the details of the drill and why it is important. The focus on skills is not limited to Skills nights. I want players to be able to recognize and implement them in their regular team practices and games.
What do you enjoy most about coaching?
Giving back to the game. I love this game. Someone taught me how to play, and it is my responsibility to pass that on. I feel that I look at the game in a unique and creative way which I would like to pass onto others.
What do you do for fun, when not coaching our players?
I love golf and hockey. I still play in drop-ins and men league!
Thank you, Tom! Anything you would like to add? I look forward to my new role. Please do not hesitate to reach out or provide feedback. My email address is tom.anderson@pciceminers.org.
