American Development Model
The American Development Model (ADM) provides age-appropriate guidelines and curriculum to hockey associations across America to help more kids play, love and excel in hockey.
Our Association maintains the American Development Model Red, White and Blue program in conjunction with the Long Term Athlete Development Plan (LTAP).
Why We Use This Model
- Many athletes spend too much time traveling, competing and recovering from competition and not enough time preparing for it.
- There is too heavy a focus on the result rather than the performance. This attitude leads to long-term failure, as coaches forgo the development of skills to focus on specific game tactics.
- Too many athletes are specializing too early on. An early focus on just one or two sports often leads to injuries, burnout and capping athletic potential.
Why the ADM model of cross-ice is so important.
Where does the ADM come in?
The ADM is a nationwide model for successfully developing American hockey players. It is by no means a mandate sent down from USA Hockey, but a tool that will ensure every kid will have the same chance to succeed. For example, part of that success will come from kids of all skill levels playing together. They’ll be able to work with the best coaches and learn from each other as they grow and learn the sport of hockey. Another great benefit of having more kids on the ice together is that the total cost of ice goes down per player. Again, the ADM is not a set of rules or mandates, but guidelines designed specifically to help kids reach their full potential.
Why Do We Follow The ADM Model?
How can the sport of hockey be so important in the future success of a young man or woman? After all, it’s just a game. But it can be so much more than that. It’s a beacon of hope for wayward kids. A fitness program to fight the epidemic of childhood obesity. A meeting ground for lifelong friends. But at its heart hockey is, and should be, fun. A chance for kids to pour out their passion and creativity on the ice. For them to learn and grow with every practice. To just be a kid and enjoy the game. That’s what the ADM is all about
