Defensemen University

Slow the Game Down. Think Faster. Play with Confidence

The defensemen who succeed aren't necessarily the strongest skaters or the most skilled players on the ice—they’re the ones who recognize situations first, understand their options, and make confident decisions under pressure. At Defenseman University, we bridge the gap between physical skill and elite hockey IQ.

The modules are ONLINE learning sessions, they are not on ice sessions.

The Philosophy

The players who improve the fastest aren't always the ones spending the most hours on the ice; they're the ones who build a deeper understanding of the game. When you truly understand what you're seeing, you stop simply reacting to the play and start anticipating it. That’s the core of everything we teach.

The Curriculum

Risk vs. Reward Evaluation: Master when to activate into the play and when to stay patient—contributing offensively without becoming a defensive liability.

High-Frequency Situations: Focus on the critical, recurring plays defensemen encounter every single shift.

In-Game Recognition: Learn the "why" behind elite plays so you can instantly recognize and execute those same decisions in your own games.

Complementing your Coaching

Team coaches have an enormous amount to cover throughout a season—systems, special teams, practice planning, and managing an entire roster. That often leaves very little time to explore the finer details of individual micro-decisions.

Defenseman University isn't designed to replace team coaching—it’s built to complement and enhance it.

The Curriculum Details

ONLINE SESSIONS

Our online sessions are designed to improve key defensive skills through six targeted modules. Each 40-minute class focuses on essential game situations, helping players develop decision-making, puck retrieval, defensive zone control, and offensive strategies. Flexible scheduling allows players to attend sessions that suit their routine, ensuring consistent skill development.

Module Times

All modules will be offered two times a day at 11:00AM or 7:00PM (MST)

Players must attend one session time per module. This flexible format allows families to choose the time that best fits their schedule each day.

Module Dates

August 3 : Creating a Decision- Making Framework

August 5: Mastering Puck Retrievals

August 10: Owning the Defensive Zone & Net Front

August 12: Defending the Rush and Controlling Gaps

August 17: Modern Scoring & point Production

August 19: Creating Offense from the Blue Line

Two sessions per module date will be offered at 11:00AM or 7:00 PM (MST) for athletes to attend, must attend one of the times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at norcanhockey@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Who is this program designed for?

Defenseman University is designed for serious defensemen, generally U13 through Junior, who

are committed to improving their Hockey IQ and understanding of the game.

How are the sessions delivered?

All sessions are delivered live online through Zoom.

How long is each session?

Each session is approximately 40 minutes in length, followed by time for questions when

appropriate.

Can siblings attend under a single registration?

Whether they're registering for the Prospects or Performance Division, family pricing is

available. Please contact me before registering if you have 2 or more defensemen in the

household.

Can parents attend the sessions?

Yes, parents are welcome to sit in on all sessions. We hope to create a partnership and shared

terminology with parents to achieve optimal development.

What if I miss a session?

If you are unable to attend a live session, please let us know. Participants who miss a session will

receive a summary of the material covered, and recording access may be provided for a limited

time when appropriate.

Will recordings be available after the program?

The value of Defenseman University is participating live. Recordings are not intended to become

a permanent video library but may be made available for a limited period if a player is unable to

attend a scheduled session.

Do I need to participate on camera?

No. Players are welcome to participate with or without their camera on, although interaction and

questions are always encouraged.

Will there be opportunities to ask questions?

Absolutely. Players are encouraged to ask questions throughout the program, and a dedicated

Q&A session will also be included.

Will the sessions include video examples?

Yes. Each module includes extensive video breakdowns and examples from various levels of

hockey to help players recognize situations and understand why elite defencemen make certain

decisions.

Is this suitable for beginner players?

No. The program is intended for players who already compete at a high level and are looking to

develop a deeper understanding of the game.

Who will be teaching the sessions?

All sessions are taught personally by Michael McGinnis of NorCan Hockey

Will my player receive individual feedback?

Defenceman University focuses on teaching concepts and Hockey IQ in a group environment.

Players seeking individualized analysis and personalized feedback may also be interested in

NorCan Hockey's one-on-one video analysis program.