Strategies to Handle Negative Hockey Players

Having grappled with negativity and witnessed its toll firsthand, I recognize the importance of addressing negative influences head-on. With over 20 years of leadership experience, I know it requires intention and swiftness centered around three key strategies.
In this video, we categorize negativity into two types: Toxics and Naysayers.
Toxics: Players who prioritize personal gain over the team, engage in team politics, and exhibit manipulative behavior. They are not good for your team or hockey program.
Naysayers: Players who resist change, reject new ideas, and often have a fixed mindset. While they can be good for a team, they can also hinder growth.
What Needs to be Done?
Negative players can harm team morale and hinder performance. As a hockey coach, it’s important to learn how to manage and neutralize negative behavior to keep your team motivated and on track.
If they are a Toxic, get rid of them and help them find a new team. Plain and simple. Cut your losses and move on.
For Naysayers, there is still the possibility for change. Consider these three approaches to neutralize their negativity:
1. Document and Evaluate Objections
Encourage Naysayers to write down their objections. This promotes reflection and shifts their perspective away from automatic negativity.
2. Disrupt the Status Quo
Challenge the inertia of Naysayers through coaching interventions or impactful events that shake up their perspective.
3. Foster a Growth Mindset
Encourage Naysayers to adopt a growth mindset by reframing challenges as opportunities for personal and team development.
Final Thoughts
Negative players can disrupt team dynamics and hinder performance, but with proactive strategies, coaches and players can neutralize their impact. By addressing toxic behavior decisively and implementing targeted approaches for Naysayers, teams can cultivate a positive and cohesive environment conducive to success on and off the ice.
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