While most of us were welcoming in a New Year, Arrowhead head coach Jackie Little was ushering youth hockey players onto the ice at the Mullet Ice Center. Little and assistant coach Jenny Adams held the first All-Girl’s Holiday Skills Clinic December 31st through January 2nd in Hartland.
“We had an amazing turnout with girls from over five different organizations coming together to skate, compete, and Level Up,” said an excited Little following the event. “The energy on the ice was unreal and we couldn’t be more proud of the participants. The camp was a huge success.”
The camp was led by Little, former Division I hockey player, current Head Coach of the Arrowhead Warhawks, and Assistant Coach for U14 Team Wisconsin. Coach Little is known for her exceptional hockey IQ and her ability to break down complex skills into clear, teachable moments. Her attention to detail and individualized instruction helps players truly understand why they are doing each drill, not just how to do it.
Alongside Little was Jenny Adams, a trusted coaching partner at Arrowhead and head coach with the Great Lakes program. Together, they brought experience, energy, and commitment to each player. “We wanted every camper to feel supported and challenged,” said Little.
Little’s goal was to provide a camp that went beyond just skating and shooting. “Our goal was to create a camp that was focused not just on skills, but on growing players’ confidence and enhancing their hockey IQ,” Little explained. “We are trying to grow girl’s hockey.”
The camps priorities included:
Fundamental Skill Development
- Skating mechanics and edge work
- Puck control, passing, and receiving
- Shooting technique and accuracy
Game-Ready Skills
- Small-area play and quick decision making
- Position-specific strategies
- Competitive drills with real-game scenarios
Strength, Work Ethic, & Mental Growth
- Conditioning that improves speed and stamina
- Training that teaches effort, resilience, and competitive drive
- Encouragement to push limits and own progress
In the end, Little summarized the camp’s goals as creating positive, player-first coaching, character development, teamwork, friendship, and most importantly FUN! Plans are underway for an All-Girl’s Summer Camp and the 2nd Annual All-Girl’s Holiday Skills Clinic next December.
