This index provides a structured breakdown of the Level 1 Lesson Plan. Each block represents a major stage
in beginner development and should be delivered sequentially unless strong coaching judgment suggests otherwise.
Level 1 is designed to transform a new participant into a calm, safe, and capable beginner who is ready
to enter Level 2 without anxiety.
- Follow the blocks in order, they build on one another.
- Do not rush progression.
- Players advance through demonstration of comfort, not attendance.
- Multiple blocks may be combined into a single session when appropriate.
Reminder: Confidence is the primary performance metric at Level 1.
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Block 1 - Water Comfort & First Puck Contact
Establish breathing control, equipment familiarity, safe diving, and the player's first controlled interaction with the puck.
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Block 2 - Basic Movement, Passing & Simple Rules
Develop underwater movement, introduce legal stick handling, and begin cooperative puck play.
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Block 3 - Attacking, Defending & Mini Games
Introduce player roles, defensive awareness, attacking intent, and structured small-area games.
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Block 4 - Game Flow, Strikes & Simple Strategy
Prepare players for real game participation by teaching strikes, restarts, direction of play, and basic team structure.
Coaches should understand where each block fits within the larger developmental picture:
- Block 1: Build calm athletes.
- Block 2: Build controlled athletes.
- Block 3: Build aware athletes.
- Block 4: Build participating athletes.
Do not attempt to accelerate this progression. Strong foundations dramatically improve long-term player success.
Advance to the next block when:
- Players appear emotionally comfortable.
- Safety habits are becoming automatic.
- Movement is predictable.
- The group looks organized rather than chaotic.
If these behaviors are inconsistent, remain in the current block.
Regression is intelligent coaching, not failure.
- Do not overload beginners.
- Do not condition Level 1 players.
- Safety overrides drill completion.
- Calm environments produce faster learning.
Level 1 sets the emotional foundation for every player who enters your programme.
Build it carefully.