Welcome to the LaSalle Sabres U12 team. My name is John Purdie and I wanted to introduce myself to the prospective players and parents. I hope everyone is safe and the players are as eager to return to a new normal as I am. I’m extremely excited to be coaching in a great organization like LaSalle again and looking forward to the new friendships this season will bring.
As a parent of three hockey players having played at elite levels I have been down your path; tryouts, practices, long seasons, tournament road trips and the goal for a red cap. I understand the commitment we make as parents and the ups and downs that accompany them. My coaching experience spans multiple sports and this will be my 43rd year coaching hockey at all levels from house league, A, AA and AAA as well as varsity hockey and spring elite squads. I have been guest instructor for many hockey schools as well as running my own clinics. For me it’s a constant learning curve starting with Olympic coaching level certification I obtained early in my coaching career to adapting modern coaching techniques to an ever changing game.
My goal is to provide an atmosphere where the players will return to the fun that hockey can bring along with new friendships and lasting memories. With travel hockey I will emphasize a dedicated approach to building on the fundamental building blocks that Hockey Canada advocates. Watching your child progress and gaining confidence in their achievements brings great rewards and one we all will take great pride in. My intent is to take their skill level to their greatest personal “potential.”
I encourage all parents to monitor the LaSalle website for updates about the coming season and welcome all players to tryouts. I want a mix of players that will mesh and bring synergy to the team so there is a spot waiting for your child and their specialized skills set. The only prerequisite is effort and respect. I am available at any time to discuss my philosophy or to offer some fun off season training to keep your child enthusiastic and hungry.
Regards,
John Purdie
(C) 519-816-1587