Players are divided into two groups of approximately six skaters each, based on age, skating ability, and overall skill level. 

Each group completes: 

45 Minutes — G-Force Skating & Edges 

45 Minutes — Silky Mitts Stickhandling 

After the first 45 minutes, the groups switch training stations. 

This format provides 90 minutes of specialized instruction while maintaining small groups for meaningful individual attention. 

SMALL-GROUP TRAINING — NOT PRIVATE LESSONS 

G-Force is the next best thing to a private skating lesson! 

Our goal is to provide the focused attention and quality instruction associated with private training while maintaining the benefits of a small-group environment. 

Each training group typically consists of approximately six players. 

This is not a private lesson, and group sizes may be slightly larger or smaller depending on enrollment and appropriate skill-level placement. 

Players are grouped by ability, not simply by birth year. 

At KIIH, we recognize that players develop at different rates. Our goal is to place each skater in a group that appropriately challenges their abilities. 

For example, a 2014-born player may be placed with older or younger players based on skating ability, experience, and overall development. 

Please notify us during registration if your player: 

Currently plays AAA hockey. 

Regularly trains with Jacque McCloy. 

Participates in advanced skating instruction. 

Has skating experience or ability significantly above their age group. 

This information allows our coaching staff to make appropriate group assignments and ensure players receive the greatest benefit from their training. 

All group placements are determined by KIIH coaching staff. 

Program Director: Richard Keyes 

Richard Keyes personally directs the Thanksgiving G-Force program, overseeing the instructional structure, player development objectives, and training environment. 

Skating Director: Jacque McCloy 

Jacque McCloy personally leads the G-Force skating portion, providing specialized skating instruction focused on developing stronger, more efficient, and more confident skaters. 

Silky Mitts: KIIH Hockey Coaching Staff 

Our hockey coaches lead the stickhandling portion, helping players develop the technical skills, creativity, and puck control necessary for game situations. 

✓ 90 minutes of specialized hockey development 

✓ 45 minutes of skating and edge work 

✓ 45 minutes of stickhandling instruction 

✓ Small groups averaging six players 

✓ Skill-based placement rather than strictly age-based groups 

✓ Instruction led by experienced KIIH coaches 

✓ Program directed by Richard Keyes 

✓ Skating instruction led by Jacque McCloy 

Better Edges. Better Hands. Better Hockey. 

Join us this Thanksgiving and experience the KIIH difference! 

What to Expect & Important Information

ARRIVAL & CHECK-IN

Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled ice time to check in and get dressed.

Check in at the KIIH registration table.

Pick up your removable name tag and place it on the front of your helmet. Name tags are required.

Locker room assignments will be displayed on the Patterson Ice Center televisions.

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

Players must wear full hockey equipment and all protective gear required by USA Hockey, AAU, or their respective independent hockey organization.

Skates must be sharpened and equipment ready for use.

Bring your own hockey stick and jersey. Jerseys are not provided.

Staff may assist with equipment issues, but instructors cannot routinely interrupt group instruction to address individual equipment problems.

SKILL-BASED GROUP PLACEMENT

Players register by birth year but are grouped primarily by skating ability and skill level.

Please notify us if your player competes at the AAA or Yzerman level, regularly trains with Jacque McCloy, or participates in advanced skating instruction.

Playing at a higher competitive level does not automatically indicate advanced skating technique or fundamentals.

Groups typically consist of approximately six players. Group sizes and assignments may be adjusted based on ability, instructional needs, and overall program effectiveness.

All group placements are subject to the discretion and approval of the KIIH Program Director and coaching staff.

OUR TRAINING PHILOSOPHY

G-Force emphasizes individual skill development, not competition between players.

Players will not participate in competitive drills where success depends on outperforming another skater.

Every drill is designed to benefit players at different skill levels.

The value of each drill comes from how the individual player applies the instruction—not the ability of the player standing next to them.

PROGRAM LEADERSHIP

Program Director: Richard Keyes

Skating Director: Jacque McCloy

Stickhandling: KIIH Hockey Coaching Staff

Better Edges. Better Hands. Better Hockey.