In a thrilling display of skill, mentorship, and camaraderie, Anže Kopitar, alongside former national team captain Tomaž Razingar, hosted the fourth edition of their highly anticipated Hockey Academy in Slovenia. Over two action-packed weeks, the academy welcomed more than 130 young hockey players from 13 different countries, transforming the training camp into a melting pot of international talent and Slovenian hockey excellence.
Unique Mentorship Experience
This year’s Hockey Academy was designed to nurture budding talent by providing a unique blend of professional training and hands-on mentorship. With Anže Kopitar and Tomaž Razingar at the helm, participants received unparalleled coaching from two of Slovenia’s most esteemed hockey figures.
Key Elements of the Academy:
- Expert Guidance: Anže Kopitar led every afternoon session on the ice, demonstrating advanced techniques and strategic play. Tomaž Razingar, a veteran with 212 games under his belt and a key player in the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, personally skated with the campers during every morning session.
- Comprehensive Training: Each day featured two on-ice sessions and one dedicated off-ice session. Players were divided into age-based groups to ensure tailored instruction that met their specific developmental needs.
- Diverse Coaching Staff: In addition to Kopitar and Razingar, 16 experienced coaches, three supervisors, and an equipment manager were on hand, providing a well-rounded training environment.
The academy not only focused on refining on-ice skills but also emphasized the importance of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship, values that are at the heart of Slovenian hockey.
Global Gathering of Future Stars
One of the standout features of this year’s academy was its international appeal. Young athletes traveled from the United States, China, Canada, Sweden, Norway, Belgium, Croatia, Italy, Austria, and other nations, making the camp a truly global event. This diversity not only enhanced the competitive spirit but also fostered cultural exchange among future hockey stars.
Highlights of the Global Participation:
- International Representation: Youth players from over 13 countries enriched the academy with varied styles and perspectives.
- Exchange of Ideas: The mingling of different hockey cultures provided an opportunity for cross-learning and the sharing of innovative techniques.
- Rising Talent: The diverse pool of players showcased immense potential, setting the stage for an exciting future for international hockey.
Such international exposure is invaluable, as it challenges the players to adapt to different styles of play and to develop a more versatile game.
Off-Ice Adventures and Unforgettable Moments
Beyond rigorous training sessions, the academy offered a host of off-ice activities that provided the perfect balance of fun and relaxation. Campers enjoyed leisure time at Lake Bled and the rejuvenating facilities of Wellness Živa. Thrills continued on the Straža Slope, where participants sledded and bounced on air pillows, creating lasting memories in the picturesque Slovenian landscape.
The camp culminated in a heartwarming final dinner, where both Kopitar and Razingar took to the kitchen to prepare burgers for everyone, a delightful gesture that encapsulated the spirit of community and shared passion for hockey.