core hockey training

August 2023 - Battle Camp

Hey just wanted to send a quick email to say thanks. My son had a lot of takeaways that he has already used in other camps and shinny skates. By far the best camp he attended this year and I can almost be sure we will be back for more.Not overly priced, not packed with players, good instruction with lots of good solid reps, and very engaging for the players. My son worked hard but enjoyed every second.

August 2023

Just wanted to let you know that on the drive home from hockey last night, J. tells me “Mom, I’m so glad you put me in these camps, they’re fun…I just love hockey.” How cool is that! You and the coaches at Core are doing it right…learn, improve and have fun. Thank you!

June 18, 2023 - Defenceman Advanced Shooting Camp

Hope this email finds you well. I want to first and foremost thank you and Blair for putting such an awesome camp together. After the first day of the camp, my son could not wait until the next camp. He was so excited to come back, that he would literally come to me and say dad we have to leave, and as a subtle hint for me to get moving, he would open the garage door and wait outside with the hockey sticks and bag. After the camp was over, I asked him if he could rate this camp against all others he has ever attended, he thought for a little and said he rates this camp a 10 out of 10. 
I found out after the last day of camp, that he had been taking notes since day one of the camp on his phone. He's cataloged everything he needs to work on, so thanks for great advice. 

C

June 14, 2023 - Battle Camp

Thank you for running the  battle camp this past week.  My son has been very hesitant to fight for the puck and engage in any kind of contact on the ice (despite being one of the biggest kids).  The camp was challenging for him, and yet he had some proud moments and feels he learned approaches he didn't know before. I think he'll be a lot less worried about puck battles going into next season.

T

June 13, 2023 - Battle Camp

Just wanted to let you know how much C. is loving this camp! He comes off the ice with a huge smile on his face and says he is learning so much! He tells me all the coach’s are so nice and encouraging to him do better all the time. 

September 26, 2022 - Private Small Group Game Awareness Camp

Blair, he loved your camp. It started with the level of competition and having to go up against kids that were bigger, stronger, more skilled, and also wanted to be there. It was then followed by the attention to detail and feedback you provided the boys throughout the practices. It was consistent, meaningful, but also light hearted and humourous. D. loved the chirping. 

R

August 26, 2022 - Game Awareness Camps

 I am filled with gratitude for the summer training you provided our boy. It's been exciting to see him push himself out of his comfort zone. The small group game awareness camps were exactly what he needed -- no where to really coast. We saw a ton of growth. Plus the invitations to skate with the "visors" was very meaningful to him. What a great experience! Thank you for taking the time to talk with him about his goals, his mindset and his mental preparation. That investment of your care and attention really made a big difference as he heads into try outs. Thanks again. Please keep in touch with other training opportunities and I know we will be back for more training with you 

August 22, 2022 - Body Contact Camp

Good morning,

My son M.  just finished your contact camp on Friday and played his first evaluation game yesterday. 

I asked him over breakfast whether he found your hitting camp useful. His reply: “Yes, I would tell Coach Blair that his hitting camp was very useful. That’s why I could take a hit and give a hit!” 

What more could a parent ask for? When you take away the fear of getting hurt, they get to enjoy playing the game they love.

 
Thanks so much for everything. We look forward to more camps with you in the future. 

S.

August 18, 2022

I just wanted to reach out and say thanks for all the hard work with E.  He has loved every camp of yours all spring and summer.  I have notice huge gains in his game and he is looking better every time he is on the ice.  He is hoping to crack a U15 AA line up this fall and I think with all your help he has a really good shot at it.

SS

January 10, 2022 

I hope you had a restful holiday. 
Just wanted to say that J was player of the game tonight. They lost, unfortunately, but Js had a bar down from the point…it was a beauty. And he had three rushes that all resulted with shots on the net!  He played smart defense. You have really helped him develop. Thank you!

H
 

October 4, 2021

A. finished the trouts this year very strong. She went to the u 13 AA tryout played to her strengths battled hard. She scored 2 goals and couple assists in four tryout games. She made it to the finale cuts and was invited to the finale intersquad game. Played very well in the game but got cut in the end. Then on to the Tier 1 camp where she battled hard and scored 4 goals in the tryout faze. Went on to the intersquad and battled hard and scored again. She then got the good news she made the  tier 1 club playing in the Edmonton minor hockey league u13 tier 1 division. She was very happy it’s the highest tiered team she has made.She played St. Albert yesterday and scored her first goal this year. We will be putting Ava in you camps again soon. Thanks again 

D

October 24, 2020

His evals were incredible. He is one of your success stories for your training!! He went from Tier 6 last year to Tier 2 this year. 

TT

August 4, 2020

Thanks again for everything you've done for him both in your camps and at Academy.  When C would hobble in on crutches to hockey, he always looked forward to seeing you.  You always went out of your way to talk with him and to help keep his spirits high.  It's evident you care about the players you come into contact with, and the mentorship and guidance that you provide them is pretty special.  

S

August 24, 2019

I would like to thank you for the last 2 weeks of excellent instruction in your camps. Z was thrilled to learn how to "pin" someone on the boards! Great to see the one on one instruction, corrections and pointers. Z is ready for tryouts! 
Great camps!
Thank you!
L

August 24, 2019

Good evening, Just wanted to send note of thanks and appreciation for the coaches on the ice for this week’s bantam core hockey camp for defencemen at Terwilliger. Our son, J, was coming into this hockey season with a sense of trepidation thinking it would be his last year of hockey due to difficult past seasons. But he has been inspired by the coaches on the ice and his love for hockey has been reignited. Please pass on our thanks to your coaches. Their encouragement and ability to see the hard working spirit in our son is much appreciated. He has said this is the best hockey camp he’s been in (and we have been in a lot over the years). Thanks for bringing a smile back to his face for the game. S and M 
 

September 27, 2018

Thanks for the confirmation for the boys upcoming camp.  They are both very excited. Both did really good in their tryout and it’s great to see them using skills I know they learnt with you. J reached his goal of making AA and P is on a great team with his coaches from last year. Both T and myself contribute a lot of their progress to to what they have learnt and been exposed to in their Core Camps — so thank you very much.

S
 

September 12, 2018 

The  skates went well for M. even though he became sick and missed a days school he still made it to the skates and played a simple game and I don’t think anyone even noticed he was ill by his play even though we were very worried but he made the decision to play.  

M. made the comment that anything he has learned from hockey has been through you.  I can see that.  He thinks the game very well and that comes from the way you give feedback and teach the players, and have great coaches.  

There were many nervous players and I heard from other parents that there sons where nervous and did not sleep.  Your teaching prepared M. and that was never an issue for him. He did not show any stress and got lots of rest.  He was calm and was prepared mentally for tryouts. 

Thank you 
B

August 22, 2018 - Battle Camp

Blair,
    Thank you for doing such a great job with your battle camp this week. My kids are having a lot of fun. 

      You have such a gift with developing players with your touch of old school discipline, passion for developing everyone and your memory of all the players and making them feel like they matter while pushing them to their potential. 
 

August 19, 2018  - Atom Game Awareness Camp

 E attended your Atom camp this past week for his first Core Camp, and thoroughly enjoyed his time and growth in skill development under the Core instructors.  As a parent in the stands watching all week, the improvement in all the kids from Day1 to Day 5 was impressive! He has already inquired about attending another Core Camp. Thank you Blair!

August 2nd, 2018

B has really been enjoying camps this week - he said they are the best he's ever attended!  We greatly appreciate the time and effort Core Hockey's coaching staff put into these camps, and would have liked to see him participate all week.  We feel he's really benefitted from these camps, and look forward to him participating again next year.
KC

January 23, 2018 - Bantam Spring Program

K and I just wanted to pass on a thank you for the camp. Is a excellent opportunity for the kids to learn more than what is often offered among so many other main stream camps. I know K was very engaged the entire time, it has really shown to me through his level of effort, commitment and a new found level of desire to excel in the game. He has been fortunate to have experienced many high level coaches and various pro's all his life however your instruction I feel has really hit home with him.

D

Hi Blair,

Last night we played a game in Camrose.

What I want to say is that at yesterday’s game TB put in 200% of some of the skills that have come from you.  When I seen what can happen when really put it into play I want say THANK YOU.

We are glad TB has a great mentor in hockey.

CB

August 11, 2017 - Bantam Conditioning Program

Today was worth every penny S. and I have paid you. You reinforced the same message we have been giving B. and E., step up and don't be afraid, time to be accountable push yourself and your glass ceiling will shatter. Mistakes happen, learn from them and move ahead. The message is always heard and heeded more when it comes from someone else. 

A.

August 7, 2017 - Midget Conditioning Program

HI guys,
I just wanted to say thank you for giving so much back to the boys and the game. It is not just the fact you give back to the game and what you teach all the kids but it is in the manner that you do it.

You make sure that the kids are enjoying the game, but yo challenge and hold them to high expectations. Calling them out when they do not meet those expectations and doing it in a way that teaches the player accountability and responsibility to themselves, to you and all the others kids on the ice. As a parent could you ask for more, so thank you both very sincerely.

I was hoping to watch some of the session but I only made part of the session on Monday. I have to tell you, there were plenty of things for the kids to learn and get better at in that session a long. What really impressed me was what was being taught while they were waiting for one of the players to finish the drill. It was the one where they had to go to the blue line and do push ups, then red line and site ups and then up and downs on their front and then their back. Grueling I am sure. The thing that was so impressive was how they all went and cheered on the one player that had not finished, cheered and supported. I though what a great lesson in teamwork was being shown by these players and how none of them went for a drink of water until he was done. I know it may seem minor but from that Monday session that was the one thing that stayed with me.

They do not know it yet or maybe they do but that is the type of teamwork and character that can help them achieve bigger things in life.
Sorry, this email is far longer than intended, I just wanted to say thank you for being great mentors and standup guys for these young men.
 

M

June 25, 2017 - Bantam Spring Program

I wanted to thank you for a great camp for Matt.  Driving in this morning to the last practice of many weeks and a lot of ice time I asked Matt was he happy it was the last practice really thinking with all the summer distractions and many long weeks on the ice he would be happy the camp was coming to an end.

Matt responded wishing the camp was longer. He really didn't want it to end yet.  I think that speaks highly of you and the coaches you have to keep the kids engaged and want more.

BC
 

September 9, 2016

On behalf of G. and I want to thank you for your belief in C. and for asking your coach to give him a shot even with his late arrival.  Your instruction and encouragement has helped him develop into the player he is today and has him focused on the possibilities of the future.  I feel so blessed that you opened a spot for him in your Alberta Cup prep camp last spring.  He has come so far since then not only in skill, but in confidence and focus.

August 2, 2016

Blair,
      Just a quick note to say ThanQ. "C" totally enjoyed your bantam hockey camp yesterday and said to me that you were really funny. As I mentioned on the phone briefly, "C" studied hockey in Winnipeg for 5 years with Mike L who is a great guy and hockey coach at the World 3 on 3 Hockey. So yesterday "C" was a bit nervous, but by the end of the day. "C" had a great time. He now see's were he has to make improvements and he is excited about that. "C" is completely excited to return and work hard.
 
As a parent, I saw and heard things I appreciated, and I myself equally enjoyed watching a good coach, coach kids and all the kids appeared to enjoy themselves. So, a very big THANQ to both you and your wife Shelley for everything you do.
 
J

May 5, 2016

Hey Blair hope all is well! I want you to know to that I admire the passion and determination you put into the things you love most. I've always been similar in that way. You've taught me a lot about the game of hockey but more importantly people and life skills, seeing how much time and effort you put in on a day to day basis is inspiring! I want to thank you for all you've done for me, when I'm grinding on the range and on the course after hours I think to myself what you would do in the situation. Motivational things you've said to me or I've seen you post. I'm a very self determined person myself and have a lot of fight but I've learned a lot from you. Thank you!

L Perry




July 19, 2015  On Ice 1 on 1's

Well so far looks like session 2 was a success. It's great to see Grayson come off the ice feeling confident in what he is learning and putting it to use. I'm amazed at how much respect he has for you in such a short time. He says he loves your instruction style and is happy to always know where he stands. You make the work fun!! I'm happy to report that Grayson has also held himself accountable by surprising me and setting his own alarm clock a half hour earlier in the morning before workout to get his stick handling and shots done, so good to see.

I wish we had more time or our paths had crossed sooner as your coaching has been priceless.

C + S

January 6, 2015

Comments regarding the New Year Development Camp

Hey Blair, just wanted to thank you guys for the excellent camps last week. N-h very much enjoyed himself and took a particular liking to your instructional styles.

Thanks again and for being a positive role model.

JH




December 15, 14

Blair,

I just wanted to say “thank you” on behalf of our KC team.  Speaking with parents yesterday at our Christmas party, the parents are impressed with your skills and how you engage with the boys. Once again, thank you for taking the time of your busy schedule to train our KC Spartan Boys.

Much appreciated.

Noella




October 1st, 2014

Blair,
Thank you so much for everything that you have done for Kaleb. Core Hockey has improved every aspect of his game, from his stance to his shot, his speed and his enthusiasm. You have been a wonderful coach, teaching him not only the "on ice" lessons, but the important "off ice" stuff as well. He has learned discipline, respect and healthy lifestyle lessons from you that are invaluable in his development from child to man and Lisa and I appreciate everything you have done. Your passion and commitment show in every lesson you give, and to coin a term, it's obvious that you are giving 110%, and that you expect it back from your athletes. Believe it or not, Core hockey has even strengthened Kaleb and Lisa's relationship. It granted them an activity to bond over and an ongoing project to work together on and I don't think that they have ever been closer than they are now. Core played a very large part in that.
We will genuinely miss you and I'm certain that the lessons that you taught Kaleb will stay with him forever.
Thank you so much Blair, you're a true gentleman.  Luke E





June 2014

Comments regarding the May/June small group skates:

Just a thank you for working with my boys both of them don't want to finish . They love your program they look forward to going and best of all while I am watching them they have a smile on there face.  We will be doing more of your camps thanks for your time and hard work . Ray M




March 2014

Comments after attending Midget Prep Camp:

hey Blair I just wanted to thank you so much for helping me get prepared for the DV junior camp. I exceeded my standards on my level of play. I brought more than what I thought I was capable of and just because of that im on the radar for the DV scouts. very happy, but very sore. thanks a ton, couldn't have done it without you!

CV

Dec 27, 2013

Comments regarding Christmas Skills camp:

"I'd have to say I think it's the best camp I've ever put him in."

SB

Nov 24, 2013

Comments regarding one off ice session for puckhandling.

Well RB played her first game and I have to say if one session with you produces what I seen on the ice today then we will be back for sure.She practiced Saturday and Sunday what you went through with her along with a practice and then game with her team.
She played unreal today so much confidence and getting into the corners.  Using her hockey stance well at the faceoffs sitting low and her position on her stick is better she put new tape on:)
 
TB
 

October 11, 2013

Comment regarding the Elite Atom/Peewee Camp

Hi Blair,

I hope you had a great evening.  I have to share with you how impressed both J., J. and I are with your Atom Elite camp and it's only been two sessions!  Yesterday J. got in the car and said, "Was that really an hour? It goes too fast!".  His fast feet during your "seam" drill is exactly what he needed.  I chatted with him on the way home yesterday about using fast feet like that in situations when he is given the puck and needs to pull away from the defender, etc.  I think it's finally starting to sink in! LOL!  I am also impressed with your "chalk talk" before the camp.  It's nice to see a coach talk to these boys like young adults and express upon them the importance of focus, dedication, etc. It's also nice to finally have J in a camp that he's being pushed to do things that are "difficult" as that's the only way he is going to improve as he strives to become a better hockey player.  This morning he got dressed quick for school and went outside on his own and was practicing "shooting in stride"…while he was running.  He said it's hard but if he practices it will get easier and then the goalies won't expect him to shoot.  I had not doubt that your previous impression on him would translate to this camp.  It is well worth the money and the drive and we can't thank you enough.  I will be sure to sign J up for your summer camps as well.

Have a super day,
D V




September 12, 2013

Comments are regarding, Battle Camp

Just wanted to drop you a note of thanks. T and T had a great first weekend of evaluations. They battled in the corners and really did their best. Thank you for your talent, patience and expertise that you share with the kids. It certainly was evident that they truly improved from the camp! Lots of great comments for them so thanks again!

Cheers
T H

October 9th, 2013

Comments are regarding, 1 on 1 on ice session.

Just wanted to say thank you for a great session the other day. R. was so excited when she came home. When I asked her how it went, she replied, “It was so awesome!!! I would work with Blair anytime. He really helped!”