We sat down with our newest coaches: Kevin and George Robinson
1. Can you tell us about your background in hockey, both as a player and a coach?
Coach George:
I played competitive hockey all of my life! At the age of 15, I played Jr. B in the NOHA, at 16 played Jr A/B, at 17 I began my coaching career coaching Mississauga beginner intro to hockey and took on a Midget House league team.
I have had the pleasure and privilege to be a coach to 38 previous hockey teams ranging from the beginner 4 year old to the AAA level and senior level!! (yes the old timers called me coach too! Can’t help it!!)
Coaching two of my sons through competitive hockey allowed me to not only gain necessary knowledge but also to spend time with them and pass on some of life’s values, ethics and respect!
Coach Kevin:
Hockey has been a part of our household for as long as I can remember. Pretty sure I grew up running around the house with a hockey stick and helmet, probably marking up way too many walls and furniture! Growing up in the GTHL provided me opportunities to play and develop through select, A, AA, and AAA programs from age 4-18. The competitive and structured hockey programs allowed for growth not only in the skills and game, but in the building of lifelong friendships. Hockey continued into University intramurals and has continued into recreational leagues today. Coaching became the next step in my hockey journey, wanting to join in and help wherever that may be with both my son and daughter. As a member of the U11 LL and U11 Midland Select team this past year, it provided Coach George and myself our first opportunity to coach alongside each other. The father-son Robinson duo! Sharing in both the joy and frustration that comes along with the game has been incredibly rewarding. Coaching children through a variety of elementary school sports has also provided me experience in helping engage and interact with diverse personalities and abilities.
2. What is your overall coaching philosophy, and what values are most important to you as a coach?
Our coaching philosophy is based on development, fairplay, and respect. Hockey is an amazing game. It provides an opportunity to develop skills related to the on-ice component, and also builds character through team success and friendships. Providing opportunities for each player in different on-ice situations, helps to build confidence and trust amongst the team. Building respect towards all of those involved in the process and game of hockey, including themselves, is one of our biggest values as coaches to our young athletes.
3. What style of hockey do you coach, and what can players expect in terms of systems and game strategy?
Hockey is a game of action: specifically skating, checking, passing, shooting and scoring!!! The players will be instructed in all of these fundamental skills which will enable them to carry out the concepts of Offence and Defence through a variety of systems presented both on and off ice strategy sessions. We instill a system of fast paced forecheck and puck control, building on the speed and relentless compete for the puck.
4. What are you most looking forward to in the upcoming season?
The development of each and every team member furthering their hockey skills and knowledge as well as growing in their character, ethics and respect for others. We are really excited about the opportunity to bring two age groups, along with players and families from multiple organizations together, to create a positive community connection both on and off the ice! Building new relationships with new teammates and seeing the progress of our team and players are all very exciting!
5. Why should players want to be part of the Islanders next season? What makes this team and program special?
The opportunity to be a member of the first year of GBMHA inception is incredible. Being able to bring double age groups from a variety of different centres will be rewarding for the coaching staff. This is a chance to build a program from the ground up with the purpose of establishing a culture of competitiveness, development, and inclusiveness. Players will look back in years to come and say”I was a part of that 1st year”. Unforgettable!
6. Is there anything else you’d like players and families to know about you or the upcoming season?
We are approaching this experience with excitement and enthusiasm! We cannot wait for the upcoming season. We also want players and families to know that we are just one part of this team. Everyone has a role and we welcome involvement in any shape or form to help with our goal of development. We want families and players to know that we are here to help support, and that they can connect with us throughout this process!