Designed to introduce and explain the ADM and the principles of long-term athlete development to parents, coaches and volunteers, the roadshow featured presentations by USA Hockey ADM regional managers, along with on-ice, station-based practice sessions at several locations.

"It was terrific to have USA Hockey’s Ken Martel come here to help our parents understand the benefits and principles behind the American Development Model," said Cal McGowan of Suburban Hockey in Farmington Hills, Mich. "Our association appreciates USA Hockey's commitment to developing our young players."

The regional ADM managers’ presentations helped inform parents of what to expect from USA Hockey’s age-appropriate skill development program from Mites to Midgets and how it is designed to teach young players the skills they need to have fun playing the game.

“It was great to hear about the ADM’s focus on fun and skill development straight from a USA Hockey staff member,” said Jerrod Johnson of Farmington, Mich. “He did a good job explaining how the ADM will help my children. I really liked the science and research behind it and how the intent of the ADM is to develop young players that love the game and want to keep playing.”

That message resonated with Mark Berke, a veteran youth coach and president of the Novi Youth Hockey Association. “At the younger ages having fun and enjoying themselves is so important,” said Berke. “When kids are having fun and developing their skills it makes them want to keep coming back to the rink. Sure winning is exciting, but their win-loss record definitely isn’t as important to them as what the snack is going to be.”

In addition to Bob Mancini, the ADM regional manager for Michigan, four other USA Hockey ADM experts traveled to the Great Lakes state to help make the roadshow a success

“We were fortunate to have the staff of USA Hockey, whose knowledge, experience and passion is contagious, leading these presentations,” said George Atkinson, MAHA president. “We hope that having a better understanding of the ADM will help parents make the right choice when selecting a hockey program for their young player.”