How to prepare for a Laura Stamm Power Skating Clinic.
Laura Stamm clinics are primarily technique instruction and skill development. The players focus should be on learning to do each technique correctly, not in getting a good workout or in beating the other players in a race. Although proper physical conditioning is very important in hockey, we do not focus on it in our sessions. A tired skater is more likely to use incorrect technique and is more prone to injuries.
The skills are usually taught in a general manner, then broken down into their component parts for more detailed study. The most important part of the clinic is the discussion the instructor has with the class on the how and why we do each move. If the player has a firm grasp of the concepts behind each technique, he or she can practice these whenever they are on the ice until they become second nature.
The players should have a basic knowledge of the skating skills before they come to the camp. The skills are roughly what you would get having played organized hockey for one year or more.
Every clinic you go to will always have players of differing skill levels. Do not try to compare yourself to anyone else on the ice. Rather look to improve your abilities.
How then do you get the greatest benefit out of a clinic? If you are a weak skater, you should focus on the general concepts of each technique. Practice the technique at a slower pace until you gain an understanding of how and why you are doing that particular move. The stronger skater should focus on the detail of each technique presented. Practice doing each technique perfectly. Now can you do it without thinking about it? Then add a level of difficulty. Do the move with the puck. Analyze each technique. Do this until each technique becomes second nature. When you get the move down cold then ask the instructor what you can do to improve it. Don’t ask “How am I doing?” Ask “What else can I do to improve?” Next, don’t be surprised if he says you need to work more on the basics. The exact same thing the weakest skater is working on only in more detail. With the proper attitude, everyone can benefit from skill instruction or review.
Other things you should do are:
Skate at least once within a week of the clinic start date. This will help insure your equipment fits and help regain your balance if you have been off the ice for a while.
Get a good nights sleep before the clinic.
Arrive early to get familiar with the surroundings and relax. This will aid in the learning process.