AAA – What it Takes

What does it take to play AAA level hockey?

BY JACEY CONWAY

Playing on a AAA-level hockey team is a great achievement and popular goal for many young hockey athletes.

Hockey coaches Dustin Taylor and Terry Sydoryk share what they look for when recruiting new players for upcoming seasons.

Taylor, who was made head coach of the CFR Bisons Midget AAA in 2018, has high expectations for his team players and looks for devoted athletes who are focused and committed to always being their best.

“It requires a sincere amount of focused and disciplined training in all aspects of becoming a great hockey player,” says Taylor.

Sydoryk has been coaching AAA hockey teams for eight years, both in Airdrie and Cochrane. In his time as head coach, he has seen the importance of building a strong team and looks for team players when recruiting for new seasons.

“In any team sport there is no room for individuals,” says Sydoryk.

Playing well on a team is only part of making a AAAlevel hockey team. Both coaches are looking for young athletes who show good character and attitude.

“Talent and skill come second to character,” says Taylor.

The difference between a good hockey player and a great hockey player is the willingness to take on more work, whether it be more cardio or game work, says Sydoryk.

The player who will show great initiative on and off the ice is what both coaches are looking for when putting together the team of 19 players.

“We are looking for those who are always hungry for more,” says Sydoryk.

It is important for aspiring hockey athletes to come prepared, with an “insane desire to compete.”

“That goes a long way for us,” says Taylor. “That drive to be your best when your best is required.”

Being a AAA hockey player comes with many high expectations, the biggest one being the time commitment.

Practices are held several times a week, in both the mornings and evenings.

In addition to practices players are expected to keep up with team workouts, meetings and games on the weekends, all while maintaining high academic scores.

“The program we run and the league we play in is very demanding and heavily scouted,” says Taylor.

Both coaches understand the weight of their leadership roles and see the commitment as more than just building up good hockey players.

“We are developing young men for a future in life, not just sports,” says Sydoryk.

Taylor and Sydoryk have seen sports contribute to the longterm success of individuals, beyond hockey.

“The mentality, commitment and focus that is required on a daily basis prepares these young men for the work ethic that’s going to be required at the next level, and life after the game,” says Taylor.

Playing for a AAA-level hockey team leaves players with a specific identity when they leave.

The identity is one that emulates “integrity, enthusiasm, perfect effort and competitive excellence.”

Sydoryk outlines the three important necessities required of a AAA hockey athlete.

“Show up, work hard and listen,” he says.