AP RAIDERS U18BB RED (25/26) - COACH PROFILE & TEAM INFORMATION
HEAD COACH - ADAM MARIANO
My name is Adam Mariano and I have been a Head Coach for the past several years, starting with the Ajax Knights and then the Ajax Pickering Raiders, after amalgamation. Hockey has always been my favorite sport and I have developed an even deeper appreciation for the game after becoming a coach. The opportunity to teach and guide our youth is a privilege. Volunteering my time has been extremely rewarding. I look forward to every hockey event throughout the season and I continue to learn, and strive to improve, along the way.
COACHING PHILOSOPHY
I like to create a positive, open and inclusive environment where players are encouraged to work hard and push themselves and each other, while improving and having fun in a team atmosphere. I aim for equitable ice times for my players and for them to play in all types of scenarios in a hockey game.
MY PROGRAM
Quality practices are a key to success for any of my teams. I strive for fast paced, game like practices with very little down time and engagement from all my players. I will be aiming for a contract ice slot throughout the season, on top of league appointed ice. I schedule dryland training, once per week, for my team. This is a great way for teammates to work together, to help one another, to get stronger and to prevent injuries throughout a long hockey season. I schedule 4 to 5 tournaments throughout the year, with parent approvals. Tough competition, from opposing centers will bring out the best from my players.
While much of my focus is on development within the game of hockey, I want my players to learn valuable life skills, as well. Time management, personal accountability, respect for others and the importance of hard work and effort, are skills that will help our youth, not only in hockey, but in life and in their future endeavors. I believe in being a good person, then a good player.
TEAM ACHIEVEMENTS & THE ASSOCIATION
Being a part of the Ajax Pickering Hockey Association has been a great experience. The staff is always there for any questions or issues that may arise during the season for parents, coaches and players. They are dedicated to the success of our youth, no matter the age division they are competing in. Since the amalgamation of Ajax and Pickering hockey associations my teams have finished first in the Victoria Durham League, at U15, and second in the Lakeshore League, at U16, respectively. Both of those years we won tournaments and earned a spot at the OMHA Championships, where at the U15 age group we made it to the semi-finals.
I am extremely excited to continue coaching with the Ajax Pickering U18 Raiders, aiming for another successful year with a great group of players and families.