Glass and Out EC Kassel Huskies Head Coach Todd Woodcroft: Principles over tactics, owning the puck and coaching gratitude
Jan 14, 2026
Todd Woodcroft, the head coach of EC Kassel Huskies, shares insights from his extensive hockey career, emphasizing principles over tactics in coaching. He discusses building a positive team culture, adapting to European hockey dynamics, and managing game risk. Woodcroft also highlights the importance of player accountability through ratings and the value of clear communication learned from mentors. His approach to simplicity and structured practice planning showcases his focus on player development and fostering talent, especially among young athletes.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Europe's Growing Hockey Ecosystem
- European clubs are improving by investing in coach development and stronger federation structures.
- Woodcroft highlights growing hockey culture, attendance, and coach education across Germany and Europe.
Build Trust With Honest Consistency
- Build trust daily through honesty and consistent behavior with your players.
- Tell your truth even when it's unpopular so players know what to expect and will respect you.
Identity As Repeatable Behaviors
- Define team identity with simple principles like being heavy, brave on the puck, and competitive in practice.
- Woodcroft frames identity as repeatable behaviors across breakout, forecheck, and tracking rather than complex systems.
