Top 7 Apps for Hockey Drill Management

Running hockey drills effectively is no longer a challenge with the right apps. These tools simplify planning, tracking, and communication, saving coaches time and improving player development. Here's a quick rundown of the top 7 apps for managing hockey drills:

• CoachThem: Create and customize drills with visual tools and video integration. Pricing starts at $72/year per coach.
• TeamSnap: Manage teams, schedules, and drills with built-in communication tools. Free plan available; Premium starts at $10/month.
• Hockey Coach Vision: Use 3D animations to design and share drills. Annual plans start at $129.
• SkillShark: Evaluate players with custom templates and real-time feedback. Costs $5/player annually.
• HockeyShare: Design drills with animations and organize practice plans. Free plan available; Premium starts at $8/month.
• Hockey Canada Drill Hub: Access free, official Hockey Canada drills and resources. Premium app features start at $47.99/year.
• Drive Hockey Analytics: Use AI and sensors to track performance metrics during drills. Pricing varies by team size.

Quick Comparison

App	Key Features	Starting Price	Platform Compatibility
CoachThem	Drill creation, video integration	$72/year	Web, iOS
TeamSnap	Team management, scheduling	Free	iOS, Android, Web
Hockey Coach Vision	3D animated drills	$129/year	Mac, PC, iOS, Android
SkillShark	Player evaluations	$5/player/year	iOS, Android, Web
HockeyShare	Drill animations, practice plans	Free	Web
Hockey Canada Drill Hub	Free official drills	Free	Web, iOS, Android
Drive Hockey Analytics	AI-powered performance tracking	Varies	Tablets, laptops

These apps cater to different coaching needs, from basic drill planning to advanced analytics, ensuring there's an option for every budget and requirement. Keep reading to learn how each app can support your coaching goals.

Hockey Drills Animated with 3D view - Hockey Coach Vision overview

Click to watch: Hockey Coach Vision - 3D Animated Drill Overview

1. CoachThem

CoachThem simplifies the process of planning and executing drills by offering tools for visual customization, multimedia integration, and seamless organization.

Key Features for Drill Management

CoachThem shines in drill creation by allowing coaches to visually design and customize drills. With its ABC tool, coaches can add multi-line text to diagrams, adjusting alignment and size for clarity. Features like Smart-Align and Drag Align make it easy to position elements precisely, ensuring clean and professional-looking drills.

The platform also integrates multimedia seamlessly. Coaches can embed YouTube or Vimeo videos directly into drill instructions, giving players both visual and video guidance for proper techniques. For added convenience, drills can be exported as images for offline use or printing.

These features are designed to work smoothly across all devices, providing a consistent and reliable experience.

Platform Compatibility

CoachThem offers a unified experience across desktop, mobile, and tablet devices. Drills update automatically across platforms, and the mobile app even allows offline access. The iOS app is compatible with iPhones running iOS 17.0 or later and Macs with Apple M1 chips running macOS 14.0 or later. Available in both French and English, the app includes features like full-screen viewing and customizable display modes to suit different coaching needs.

Pricing (USD)

CoachThem provides flexible pricing options to meet the needs of individual coaches and larger groups, starting with a 10-day free trial that doesn't require a credit card.

• Pro Plan: $72 per coach annually (or monthly billing options), ideal for individuals or small teams.
• Association Plan: $100 per team annually, which averages $25 per coach - a 65% savings compared to individual plans. This option is perfect for organizations with at least 8 teams and includes access for 4 coaches per team, along with a dedicated association database.

A promo code, "GET20", offers an additional 20% discount for even more savings.

Benefits for Coaches

CoachThem helps coaches save significant time - up to 45–60 minutes per week - by eliminating repetitive tasks like double-entry work and printing. It boosts player engagement with clear visual instructions and strengthens team communication by ensuring all coaches have access to the most up-to-date practice plans. Additionally, its tools enhance off-ice training, making it a valuable resource for comprehensive team development.

2. TeamSnap

TeamSnap is an all-in-one team management platform designed to simplify scheduling and drill management for hockey coaches. Trusted by over 24 million users, including 3 million coaches spanning more than 200 sports, it's a go-to solution for managing teams efficiently.

Key Features for Drill Management

With TeamSnap+, coaches gain access to a vast library of drills and practice plans tailored to different age groups. The platform collaborates with Hockey Canada and USA Hockey, ensuring access to officially approved training resources and seamless membership validation.

Drill management is seamlessly integrated into TeamSnap's organizational tools. Coaches can assign drills, monitor completions, and communicate with their teams through a built-in chat feature. The calendar syncs drills with games and events, helping avoid scheduling conflicts and ensuring well-rounded training sessions.

Platform Compatibility

TeamSnap works smoothly on both iOS and Android devices. Its impressive 4.8/5 rating, based on 56.2K reviews in the App Store, highlights the platform's popularity and user satisfaction. Recognized by Software Advice, Digital.com, GetApp, and Capterra as a leading club management tool, it ensures coaches can access their drill libraries and plans anytime, whether they're at the rink or on the go.

Pricing (USD)

TeamSnap offers flexible pricing options to suit different needs:

• Free: $0/month for teams of up to 15 members, including basic features like schedule management, team chat, assignments, real-time game sharing, and invoicing.
• Premium: $10/month (billed annually) or $15.99/month for teams of up to 40 members, offering additional features like lineups, stats tracking, premium support, and 2GB of storage.
• Ultra: $12.50/month (billed annually) or $21.99/month, providing unlimited rosters, unlimited storage, and sponsorship tools.

For larger organizations, TeamSnap for Business starts at $599/year, offering centralized management capabilities tailored to complex needs.

Benefits for Coaches

TeamSnap saves coaches and managers up to 12 hours of admin work per month while maintaining a 98% customer satisfaction rate.

"As a parent and a coach, TeamSnap helps me keep track of what rink I need to show up to, when."
– Kathy Griswold, Long Island Hockey League

3. Hockey Coach Vision

Hockey Coach Vision is a cutting-edge 3D animated coaching app that reshapes the way hockey coaches design and share their drill plans. By offering both 2D and 3D animations, the app simplifies even the most intricate plays, making them easier for players to grasp.

Key Features for Drill Management

Hockey Coach Vision takes drill management to the next level with its advanced 3D animations. These animations allow coaches to create detailed visual demonstrations of drills, showcasing player movements, positioning, and strategies. This clarity ensures that every player understands their role before they hit the ice.

The platform isn't just about drills - it also helps coaches organize their entire season. From managing rosters to planning practices, the app provides a comprehensive toolkit. With an extensive library of drills and professional coaching content, it equips coaches with tried-and-tested methods while making it easier to explain complex systems or scouting reports through visual breakdowns.

Platform Compatibility

Hockey Coach Vision is designed to work across multiple devices, ensuring flexibility for coaches and players. The full-featured app is available on iPads, Macs, Android tablets, and Windows PCs. For quick access on the go, the HCV Player app is available for iPhones and Android phones, focusing on drill playback. This means players can review shared drills anytime, while coaches can seamlessly switch between devices, whether they're at home or at the rink.

Pricing (USD)

Hockey Coach Vision keeps its pricing straightforward:

• Coach Plan: $129/year (excluding taxes)
• Player Plan: Free
• Coach Limited Plan: Free 10-day trial

Additionally, coaches can purchase extra drill packages from the drill store, with prices ranging from $0 to $15.

Benefits for Coaches

The app has become a favorite among coaches at all levels, thanks to its ability to save time and enhance teaching.

"Hockey Coach Vision App is my best tool to plan and run high-quality practices." – Roger Rönnberg, Head coach, Frölunda Gothenburg, Sweden

"A great organizational tool. It has given me access to a number of new drills and the tools to save valuable time in designing my practice plans." – Jeff Jackson, Notre Dame University Men's team, USA

"This Hockey Coaching App is the next level in teaching and communicating with your players." – Darby Hendrickson, asst. Coach, Minnesota Wild, NHL

"Having a visual aid that can break down systems, drills, or scouting reports has saved us countless hours every week." – Richard Reichenbach, Head Women's Ice Hockey Coach, University of Maine, USA

4. SkillShark Athlete Evaluations

SkillShark Athlete Evaluations transforms the way coaches handle player assessments and drills by offering digital tools that make training decisions more precise and data-driven.

Key Features for Drill Management

SkillShark gives coaches the ability to design custom evaluation templates tailored to hockey skills like skating, shooting, game sense, and passing. These templates provide measurable outcomes and structured assessments, making it easier to gauge performance. With real-time ranking and comparison tools, coaches can instantly see how players stack up across different drill categories and monitor progress over time.

The platform also minimizes evaluator bias through standardized scoring and allows video recordings to be integrated into evaluations for deeper analysis. Additional features include weighted reports to highlight top performers, live event leaderboards for competitive drills, and a resource library for storing drill instructions, videos, and training materials. These tools fit seamlessly into any coach's workflow, making drill management more efficient.

Platform Compatibility

SkillShark works on both iOS and Android devices through dedicated mobile apps and can also be accessed via a web browser. The mobile app even supports offline use, which is especially helpful in rinks or training facilities with unreliable internet. Plus, SkillShark integrates with popular sports management platforms like TeamSnap, SportsEngine, and TeamLinkt, ensuring smooth data syncing and streamlined team management.

Pricing (USD)

SkillShark offers flexible pricing based on team size and specific feature needs. Whether you're an individual coach or part of a larger hockey organization, the platform can scale to fit your requirements. Pricing details are customizable to ensure it meets diverse budgets.

Benefits for Coaches

Coaches using SkillShark report significant time savings, cutting evaluation processes from hours to mere minutes, while delivering immediate feedback to players and parents. Chris Chelios, a Hockey Director in Chicago, shared:

"We really like how parents had their kids results as soon as they stepped off the ice."

SkillShark's data-driven tools help coaches refine training strategies by identifying which drills are most effective, adjusting practice intensity, or rethinking player roles. The customizable evaluation criteria also allow coaches to align assessments with their unique coaching philosophies and team objectives.

The platform enjoys strong user satisfaction, earning a 4.8/5 rating on Capterra from 13 reviews. It's especially praised for its ease of use, excellent customer service, and value for money. These qualities make SkillShark a game-changing tool for modern hockey coaching and player development.

5. HockeyShare

HockeyShare is a coaching platform trusted by over 40,000 coaches worldwide - spanning from local youth leagues to NHL professionals. This cloud-based tool simplifies the process of creating drills and planning practices, giving coaches more time to focus on what truly matters: developing their players. With an emphasis on user-friendly design and mobile accessibility, HockeyShare is built to meet the needs of coaches on the go.

Key Features for Drill Management

HockeyShare's drill diagrammer allows coaches to create clear, visual representations of hockey drills. With multiple rink layouts and animation tools, it helps illustrate player movements and puck flow in a way that's easy to understand. The integrated practice plan builder lets coaches design detailed practice schedules, while the "My Practice Plans" page neatly organizes all coaching materials in one place.

For those new to the platform, video tutorials guide users through creating diagrams and animations. Another standout feature is the 10k Pucks platform, which tracks shooting stats to support skill development with real, actionable data.

Platform Compatibility

As a cloud-based platform, HockeyShare runs seamlessly across devices through its HTML5 mobile app, ensuring coaches can access their resources wherever they are. While there have been minor hiccups with updates, the platform's proactive monitoring system keeps things running smoothly. Keven Muller, the founder of HockeyShare, shared an example of their commitment to reliability:

"Within 24 hours of signing up, we caught an outage on one of our new services."

This focus on consistent service ensures coaches can depend on the platform.

Pricing (USD)

HockeyShare provides flexible pricing options to suit both individual coaches and larger organizations:

Individual Plans:

• Free: Access up to 15 drills
• Premium: Unlimited drills and practice plans
  • 1-month: $8
  • 3-month: $22
  • 6-month: $40
  • 12-month: $75
• Pro: $399/year

Multi-User Plans: Range from $25 to $60 per user annually, depending on the size of the organization.

Association Plans: Start at $20 per user per year for groups with 201–500 members. All paid plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Benefits for Coaches

HockeyShare's visual drill design and animation tools make it easier to explain complex plays and demonstrate proper techniques. The cloud-based setup ensures coaches can access their materials anytime - whether they're at the rink, at home, or traveling. This flexibility is particularly useful for those juggling multiple teams or working with players across different age groups during a busy week. By simplifying practice planning, HockeyShare helps coaches stay organized and focus more on developing their teams.

6. Hockey Canada Drill Hub

Hockey Canada Drill Hub provides free access to a vast library of drills designed to support player development. With drills officially endorsed by Hockey Canada, coaches can align their practice sessions with the same high standards used in elite hockey programs. The platform allows coaches to download drills, create full practice plans, and tap into resources that have shaped some of the best hockey talent in Canada.

Key Features for Drill Management

The Drill Hub is organized for ease of use, featuring a search tool and a 16-category system that includes areas like skating, defense, puck control, shooting, and goaltending. Each drill is accompanied by a clear diagram, a detailed description, and an instructional video. Recent updates have added videos from Canada's National Women's Team and integrated age-specific practice plans from the Hockey Canada Skills Manuals.

For added convenience, the platform includes a built-in plan builder that simplifies session planning. Coaches can create shareable practice plans or use pre-designed templates for quick session ideas.

Platform Compatibility

Hockey Canada Drill Hub is fully mobile-friendly, making it accessible on smartphones, tablets, and desktops. For even greater flexibility, the Hockey Canada Network app - available for iOS and Android - lets coaches review drills, access practice plans, and share resources while on the move.

Pricing (USD)

The Hockey Canada Drill Hub is completely free to use. For those looking for additional features, the Hockey Canada Network app offers premium subscription options:

Hockey Canada Network Premium:

• Monthly Subscription: $5.49
• Annual Subscription: $47.99 (available via in-app purchase)
• Website Annual Plan: As low as $4.00 per month, with an extra 20% discount compared to in-app pricing

The premium subscription unlocks access to over 1,500 drills, coaching skill videos, the complete Hockey Canada Skills Manuals, and exclusive drills from TSN World Juniors coverage.

Benefits for Coaches

The Drill Hub stands out by offering officially endorsed content aligned with the principles used in Canada's top-tier hockey programs. Coaches can easily share training materials across different regions, making it a valuable tool for developing young players. The free access ensures that volunteer coaches and smaller organizations can benefit without financial strain, while the premium options provide advanced tools for those managing multiple teams. The inclusion of demonstrations from the National Women's Team further emphasizes proper technique and elite-level skills. As an official resource, it complements other coaching tools by providing trusted, nationally recognized materials.

7. Drive Hockey Analytics

Drive Hockey Analytics takes drill management beyond the basics, merging sensor technology with artificial intelligence to deliver detailed, data-driven insights. This platform doesn't just help coaches organize drills - it captures real-time performance data during practice, tracking an impressive 3,000 data points per second from players, sticks, and pucks.

Key Features for Drill Management

What sets this platform apart is its ability to measure player performance during drills with pinpoint accuracy. Coaches can evaluate metrics like shooting accuracy, skating speed (measured in miles per hour), stride length, and stickhandling precision. By comparing individual performance to established benchmarks, the system highlights specific areas for improvement.

The platform also generates AI-powered tactical analytics, offering insights into how each player contributes to the team's overall performance. Tools like interactive replays and markup features allow coaches to break down player shifts and positioning in detail.

On top of that, Drive Hockey Analytics provides on-ice strength and conditioning analysis. This feature equips coaches and medical teams with in-depth data to design tailored strength training programs and strategies to prevent fatigue-related injuries during high-intensity drills.

Platform Compatibility

The system is built for convenience, offering seamless access to analytics anywhere. With a portable setup that includes a wireless tablet or laptop, coaches can monitor live tracking data during practice. The system syncs data online, making it accessible for review by coaches, players, and even parents. Setup takes just about 15 minutes, making it easy to incorporate into regular practice routines.

In July 2022, Drive Hockey Analytics transitioned from AWS to Google Cloud to cut IT costs and speed up development. Using tools like TensorFlow, BigQuery, and MongoDB Atlas, they created an interactive player analytics engine that ensures reliable and efficient data processing across devices.

Pricing (USD)

For teams, analytic reports are available at $25 per player through a Regional Service Partner. Organizations seeking more extensive access can license the full sports analytics system, unlocking the platform's complete capabilities.

Benefits for Coaches

The platform provides coaches with objective, measurable data to refine their approach to drills and player evaluations. Instead of relying solely on visual observations, coaches can create personalized training plans based on precise performance metrics.

"Drive Hockey Sensor & AI technology provides coaches & players data-backed insights on exactly how to improve their game"

- Drive Hockey Analytics

By identifying gaps between practice drills and in-game performance, the system helps coaches design more targeted practices. Tracking progress over time also allows for adjustments in drill difficulty and focus areas based on measurable improvements.

Metric Category	Key Measurements	Insights Gained
Shooting	Shot speed, accuracy percentage, release time	Tracks power and accuracy improvements
Skating	Speed (mph), stride length, edge control	Assesses efficiency
Stickhandling	Puck control time, pattern accuracy	Measures technical skill growth
Physical	Heart rate, exertion levels, recovery time	Monitors conditioning and endurance

App Comparison Chart

Selecting the right drill management app boils down to your coaching priorities, budget, and technical setup. Here's a side-by-side look at some of the top hockey drill management apps, highlighting their features, compatibility, pricing, and standout benefits.

App	Main Features	Platform Compatibility	Pricing	Key Benefits
CoachThem	Drill creation, practice planning, video analysis	Web app (any browser), iOS companion app	Free or $72/year	10-day free trial, cross-platform access
TeamSnap	Team management, scheduling, communication	iOS, Android, Web	Free or $9.99/month	All-in-one team organization
Hockey Coach Vision	Drill design, tactical planning, video markup	Mac, PC, iPad, iPhone, Android	Varies by subscription	Dedicated coach and player versions
SkillShark	Player evaluations, instant results, data tracking	iOS, Android, Web	Free or $5/player annually	Real-time evaluation feedback
Hockey Canada Drill Hub	Official drills, development resources	Web platform	Free access	Professionally developed content
Drive Hockey Analytics	Sensor technology, AI-powered analytics, performance tracking	Compatible with tablets and laptops	Pricing not specified	Advanced performance insights

Each app brings its own strengths to the table, catering to different coaching needs.

For budget-conscious coaches, CoachThem and TeamSnap offer affordable plans - $72/year and $9.99/month, respectively. Meanwhile, SkillShark's $5/player annual fee is a practical choice for larger teams. Plus, free options like Hockey Canada Drill Hub provide access to high-quality drills without any cost.

"With SkillShark we reduced our overtime and it paid for itself in the first evaluation."

- Darrell Wagner, Lloydminster Hockey Association

Compatibility is another key factor. Apps like Hockey Coach Vision work seamlessly across multiple platforms, including Mac, PC, iOS, and Android, with tailored versions for both coaches and players. On the other hand, CoachThem's web-based approach ensures accessibility from any browser, anywhere.

When it comes to features, the range is impressive. Drive Hockey Analytics uses cutting-edge sensor technology and AI to deliver detailed performance metrics, while Hockey Canada Drill Hub focuses on providing free, expertly crafted drills and resources. These tools enable coaches to streamline practice sessions and focus on player growth.

Time-saving tools are particularly valuable during hectic schedules.

"I wouldn't even be able to calculate the time SkillShark has saved us."

- James Mays, PA Minor Hockey

With free or freemium models like those offered by CoachThem, TeamSnap, SkillShark, and Hockey Canada Drill Hub, there's no shortage of options to fit any budget or training style. Whether you're managing a team, designing drills, or analyzing player performance, these apps can make your job easier and more efficient.

How Drill Management Apps Work with Off-Ice Training

Off-ice training is an essential part of modern hockey development, and drill management apps are stepping up to extend coaching capabilities beyond the rink. These apps are no longer just about organizing on-ice drills; they now play a significant role in creating well-rounded training programs. By integrating with advanced training tools, they help form a complete system for player development.

Data Integration and Performance Tracking

Studies show that blending tech-driven tools with traditional coaching methods delivers the best results. Drill management apps are designed to capture detailed metrics - like shooting accuracy and movement patterns - that complement a coach's expertise. For instance, apps like Drive Hockey Analytics use sensor technology and AI-driven analytics to track key stats during training. When paired with advanced off-ice equipment, these insights become even more valuable, allowing coaches to create targeted, data-backed training plans.

Advanced Off-Ice Training Integration

Some companies are pushing the boundaries of off-ice training by combining smart apps with cutting-edge equipment. Take Hockey Gyms, for example. Their systems include skating treadmills that measure performance at speeds of up to 22 mph (35 km/h) and simulators equipped with motion capture for real-time feedback. They also offer synthetic ice systems, which allow coaches to design drills in their apps and seamlessly execute them on synthetic surfaces. This integration ensures that digital planning translates directly into physical performance.

Practical Implementation for Coaches

For coaches looking to integrate off-ice training into their programs, choosing the right app is key. Platforms like SkillShark (priced at $5 per player annually) and TeamSnap ($9.99/month) provide features like real-time evaluations and scheduling tools, simplifying the process of managing off-ice sessions. These apps make it easier to track progress and keep players on a consistent training schedule.

Maximizing Training Effectiveness

To get the most out of off-ice training, focus on critical performance indicators such as shot accuracy, stickhandling, and skating stride. Partnerships like the one between Hockey Gyms and Ozo Hockey show how combining specialized hardware with smart software can elevate training. By integrating cognitive skill-building with physical drills, these tools help players develop more holistically.

Budget Considerations

Off-ice training doesn't have to break the bank. Free resources like Hockey Canada Drill Hub work well with basic equipment, offering a cost-effective way to enhance training. For those with larger budgets, advanced solutions that pair high-tech equipment with analytics can provide deeper insights into player performance.

Conclusion

Hockey drill management apps are changing the game when it comes to player development. These tools go beyond simple organization to offer measurable advantages. For example, SkillShark significantly reduces the time needed for evaluations, while the USA Hockey Mobile Coach App has seen over 130,000 downloads and boasts 15,000+ registered coaches - a clear sign of its widespread use.

These apps don't just streamline administrative tasks; they enhance coaching by providing precise, data-driven insights. As Mark Tabrum, Director of the USA Hockey Coaching Education Program, puts it:

"Used at the highest level, it's a free tool for hockey coaches that puts all of USA Hockey's coaching resources into the palm of their hand"

Professional coaches are also seeing real-world advantages. Coach Söhnlein from Lausanne Hockey Club shares:

"The insights we gain from the data allows us to train our athletes better. We can quickly quantify things we see on the ice, and we know exactly what load we need during training to make sure our players will be able to peak come game time"

These apps now extend their benefits beyond the rink. By integrating with advanced off-ice training tools like synthetic ice and skating treadmills, they transform digital plans into actionable training. State-of-the-art systems from Hockey Gyms enhance these programs with precise performance data and tailored feedback, creating a seamless connection between planning and execution. This integration allows for real-time performance tracking, customized routines, and a sharp focus on closing skill gaps.

From youth players to elite athletes, these apps empower coaches with the tools to make informed decisions, communicate effectively, and focus on targeted player development. With this technology, coaches can help players unlock their full potential.

FAQs

What should I consider when choosing a hockey drill management app for my coaching needs?

Choosing the best hockey drill management app comes down to your coaching priorities, must-have features, and budget. Look for apps that simplify your workflow with tools like drill creation, lineup management, and player evaluation. It's also important to consider how intuitive the app is, whether it works seamlessly with your devices, and if it offers flexible pricing - such as free trials or subscription tiers.

To ensure you pick the right app, focus on what matters most for your coaching style. Do you need help organizing drills, tracking player performance, or designing game strategies? Taking the time to explore each app's features and how they can benefit your team will make it easier to find the one that fits your needs.

Can hockey training apps work with off-ice tools to improve player skills?

Many hockey training apps are designed to work seamlessly with off-ice tools, offering a balanced way to boost player development. Some apps include advanced features like real-time feedback during puck handling or shooting drills, helping players sharpen their techniques with accuracy. Others provide on-demand training programs that pair well with off-ice equipment, creating a more engaging practice experience. These combinations give coaches and players the flexibility to build personalized routines, improving skills both on and off the ice.

What are the benefits of using AI and sensor technology in hockey drill management apps?

Using AI and sensor technology in hockey drill management apps brings a host of benefits for both coaches and players. These tools offer real-time insights into player performance, tracking critical metrics like speed, fatigue levels, and movement patterns.

With this data, coaches can make smarter decisions to fine-tune training sessions, boost efficiency, and help prevent injuries. Plus, these technologies provide tailored feedback, allowing players to concentrate on improving specific areas while staying safe and performing at their best.