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FAQ

FAQs

Coaches Registration

Why should I register as a coach?

USA Hockey requires you to be validated to coach as part of any association that utilizes USA hockey including Minneapolis Storm.

 

The registration helps check a few items so that when you step on the ice with our children, you are validated and ready to go for the season.

Should I register if I don't plan to coach? No, do not unless you plan to coach.
I will coach a traveling team, how do I know I will coach?

Contact your level director about coaching opportunities.

I will coach a in-house  team, how do I know I will coach? Contact your level director about coaching opportunities.   Generally any non-traveling team can utilize you, expect to be on the ice.
I am a new coach to a traveling or in-house team, how do I know I will coach? Contact your level director about coaching opportunities.
Where do I start?

Returning coach? https://www.mplshockey.com/coaching-returning

New coach? https://www.mplshockey.com/coaching-new

How do I register as a Coach with Storm Hockey? Registration is open before pre-season start up until the end of December and always located at https://www.mplshockey.com/coaching
What do I need to know before I register?

Besides using your legal first and last name (Used by USAH) and creating a SportsEngine account.

 

The registration will prompt you to complete tasks.

 

After selecting "Next" within registration your progress is saved.

When I register, should I note what levels I coached last year? Yes, check the boxes next to the level where you were rostered on and select none if you did not.
When I register, should I note what levels I want to coach?

Yes, check the boxes next to the level where your child will be playing.

 

If a paid coach, select all levels your level director has assigned you or the team level assignment.

The registration asks what my "Coach Preference", what does this mean? Each type of coach has different commitments (Which also means different DIBS), see https://www.mplshockey.com/coachingcommitment for more info.

 

How long does it take to register?

This infographic helps outline the process and timeline.

 

https://www.mplshockey.com/coaching-path

During registration, why do I have to click on links and login to other USA Hockey sites? All of the registration requirements, SafeSport, Background Check, Modules and CEP are owned and operated by USAH. You are using their system to complete tasks that SportsEngine nor Storm have a detailed view of until completion.
Why do I have to upload/send screenshots or reports for registration?

Many coaches register before or during pre-season, therefore validation by Storm occurs manually. We don't want to do this within the limited window after team assignment before ice time is scheduled so the work is more manual.

I registered and didn't hear anything?

SportsEngine will always send a registration receipt via email which is also available in your SportsEngine account under registrations.

 

This does not imply being approved to coach.

I registered and was contacted by the ACE coordinator about missing or an incorrect item, what do I do?

After receiving an email from the ACE coordinator, complete whatever steps necessary (See below for details). Once complete email the ACE coordinator (attachment/screenshot).

 

You can always see your status at the Coaching Workbook

How does Storm validate your Concussion Certificate?
Once the season begins and you complete this task within the registration, MHA will validate..
 
- Your name
- Date
How does Storm validate your SafeSport certificate?
If USAH has confirmed completion

 

How does Storm validate your Background Check?
If USAH has confirmed completion

 

How does Storm validate yourAge-Specific Module?
If USAH has confirmed completion

 

How does Storm validate your CEP?
If USAH has confirmed completion
When I registered I uploaded an incorrect attachment, what do I do? As of 2023 you only need to upload your Concussion Certificate.
How do I know if I am approved to be on-ice?

The ACE coordinator will not contact you if you have completed registration providing all the necessary information.

What if I have outstanding items?

The worksheet should note the problem, for instance an incorrect upload, expiration, or missing module. See above for determining what next steps you should take.

 

Coaching Workbook

Still confused? Reach out to the ACE coordinator

 

Coaching within Storm

What are the responsibilities of a coach with MHA?

See https://www.mplshockey.com/coachingcommitment

What is the time commitment of a coach with MHA?

See https://www.mplshockey.com/coachingcommitment

What tools does Storm provide for you as a head coach? Storm provides a puck bucket with 35 pucks, a set of cones and an emergency kit per team which will be returned at the end of the season. You will be sharing this bucket with the coaches.
What are the tools required of a head or other coach that you would own/buy? For on-ice and game activities;

- Practice Planner utilizing IHS, USA Hockey or other systems
- Whistle
- Dry erase board with marker
- HECC certified helmet
- Gloves
- Stick
- Skates
- Loose fitting clothing
What are the tools required of a assistant coach that you would own/buy? Similar to the head coach above having a dry erase board and whistle handy as a secondary communication tool on and off the ice is recommended.
Are there skill specific roles in Storm? Yes, we have goalie and skating coaches

 

Goalie Coaches

What levels are there for USA Hockey CEP Goalie certification? Bronze, Silver and Gold
Where can I find a goalie CEP class? http://www.usahockey.com/coachingclinics
Are the goalie clinics virtual or in-person? Bronze clinics have been virtual. Silver and Gold will not be.
Are there any age-specific modules for goalies? Yes, Find out more at https://www.usahockey.com/agespecificmodules

 

Skating Coaches

Are there any skating certifications with USAH? No

 

Coaching Tools

Where should I get started looking at resources? https://www.mplshockey.com/coaching
Where should I learn more about ADM? https://www.minnesotahockey.org/admkids
Is there a platform available to create practice plans for me? Yes, please reach out to your level directors for access to IHS
Where else can I find information?

https://www.mplshockey.com/coaching-content

 

YouTube, Instagram, Facebook are popular platforms with references

 

Concussion

What is concussion management? Find out more at https://www.usahockey.com/safety-concussions
How often is concussion training? Every TWO years
Where can I take concussion management training?

Concussion training can be found at;

https://www.cdc.gov/headsup/youthsports/training/index.html

https://nfhslearn.com/courses/concussion-in-sports-2

Do I not have to login to USAH to take concussion training? No, USAH does not have concussion training linked in their system. This is a separate activity.
Are there any costs associated with concussion training? No
Is concussion training associated with USA Hockey?

No, there is no where to "check" completion of concussion training beyond the process noted previously. Please remember to register or download and save certificates.

Expiry in CDC

Currently the CDC does not expire but you will need to click on take pre assessment again to generate a new certificate.  

**Please note if you click on preassessment you will have to take the whole class over again.**

CDC Concussion  Login to https://www.train.org/cdctrain/login and then find your certificate.

 

SafeSport

What is SafeSport training? Find out more at https://www.usahockey.com/safesportprogram
How often is the SafeSport training? Every year (In 2023 it moves to an Annual basis based on the date you previously registered)
Where do I know if my SafeSport training is accepted and up-to-date? - Access your USA Hockey profile at https://www.usahockey.com/coaches
- Login and select "Coaching Information" under my profile
- Locate the SafeSport section and if the status is "NOT VERIFIED" select the link within the page to renew
 
Why do I have to login to my USAH profile to take SafeSport? Doing so validates with USAH and therefore would not prevent you from being rostered to a team once complete.
There used to be two links to SafeSport training?

Any link within the usahockey.com website to SafeSport training is acceptable

 

External links for SafeSport training is NOT recommended

What if I took SafeSport with another organization or program? SafeSport must be completed within the USA Hockey system via your coaching information and profile.
Are there any costs associated with SafeSport Training? No

 

Background Screening

What is a background screening? Find out more at https://www.usahockey.com/safesportprogram
How often is the background screening? Every Two years
How do I know if my background check is accepted and up-to-date? - Access your USA Hockey profile at https://www.usahockey.com/coaches
- Login and select "Coaching Information"
- Locate the SafeSport section and if the status is "NOT VERIFIED" select the link below on the USAH profile page to renew
 
Anything I should know? - Please use legal names that are the same as your USA hockey registration
- If any red flags are found please reach out to the ACE coordinator and do not attend further sessions
Can I used a check from another organization?

No, USA Hockey requires the check be preformed via their platform. Use the link inside your USAH profile.

What if I have a NCSI background check that was not initiated from USA Hockey? Such as volleyball. USA Hockey requires the background check to be scoped specifically to hockey.
During registration I was asked to upload information to confirm? Why do I have to do this? The options that were presented are for the ACE and Storm to validate you can be on the ice.
What is the USAH Background Screening ID?

The eight digit self registration ID number for USAH to initiate your screen is 35615801

 

*You can also enter your SSN and bypass the number.*

Are there any costs associated with Background Screening? Yes, $30 one time charge per check

 

Age-Specific Module

What are USA Hockey Age Specific Modules? Find out more at https://www.usahockey.com/agespecificmodules
What age-specific modules are there?

Fundamentals *New mandatory requirement for 2023

8 & Under Module (Mighty Mite/Mite/6U/8U) (Level 1)

10 & Under Module (Squirts/10U) (Level 2)

12 & Under Module (Peewee/12U) (Level 3)

13+ Module (Replace other high modules) - new for 2023

14 & Under Module (Bantams/15U) (Level 4) - Retired

16/18/19 & Under Module (Junior Gold/JV/Varsity) (Level 5) - Retired

 

There are additional modules available that are not required unless under specific circumstances.

 

Disabled Hockey Module

Goaltender Development

Why is there no Mighty Mite/6U module? 8 & Under and Fundamentals covers this level

Do I need to complete age-specific modules to attend on-ice activities, such as pre-season?

You must complete the age-specific module for your coaching level before any on-ice activity.

When do I need complete an age-specific module?

You must complete the age-specific module for your coaching level.

 

For instance, if you move from Mite/8U to Squirt/10U, complete the "10 & Under" module.  If you coach a second year of squirts/10U you do not need to take the module again.

Do I need to complete an age-specific module every year? No. Only when leveling up, i.e. Squirt/10U to Peewee/12U.
Where can I start a module? Go to https://learning.usahockey.com/my/ or within your USA hockey coaching profile select the link for "Module Information"
How do I know I completed a module?

Use the CEP lookup page at https://cepsearch.usahockey.com or your USA Hockey Profile.

What if I completed a module (Blue status bar is at 100%) and it doesn't show as complete in my profile? - Ensure all quizzes are complete, click through each section
- Log out/in
- Wait 24 hours
- Contact USA Hockey

- In some cases a previous requirement will block a completed module such as attending an virtual/in-person event
Can I take multiple modules at a time? No, USA Hockey requires you to complete one module at a time
Can I complete multiple modules in a season? Yes, there are no restrictions on the count of completed modules in a season.
How much time do I have to complete the module? 60 days from the purchase date
Are there any costs associated with USA Hockey Age Specific Modules? Modules are ~$20 each

 

CEP

How do I check the status of my CEP and Age-Level Modules? CEP Lookup Page
Do I need a valid CEP to attend on-ice activities, such as pre-season? No, CEP  is not required to be on-ice between the start of the season in Fall up until 12/31 of the current year.
What are the new requirements for CEP? (2021-22) Find out more by clicking this link and select "Requirements"
Are you a level 4 as of 1/1/2021? You are grandfathered and therefore do not need to take another CEP class. This is denoted on your USAH coaching profile page where your CEP expiration says "No expiration". Anything different requires CEP classes yearly.
Are you a Mite or younger coach at a level 1? If you remain only at the Mighty Mite/Mite/6U/8U and younger level, you do not need to take higher level CEP class and may continue to coach with an expired CEP. 
Do I have to attend a CEP class? Yes, yearly, unless you are "Grandfathered" in or a In-House only coach.
Can I take a level 3 recertification course? No, level 3 re-certifications are no longer offered by USA hockey. Level up to 4.
When should I attend a class? Virtual classes will remain an option with USA Hockey.

 

Any in-person class MUST BE IN MN/Minnesota.

Please note the time zone you registered for.

Where can I find a CEP class?

Classes are available via https://www.usahockey.com/coachingclinics. Login with your USA Hockey profile before registering for a class.

Once registered an email confirmation will be sent.

What if there aren't classes available?

Keep watching for new CEP classes via the USAH lookup.

 

If you can not find a CEP class, please contact USAH to help.

What happens if I miss the class or can't attend? Work with the instructor and/or USA hockey to move you to a new class which is noted in your registration email.
Should I delete my USAH registration email? No, do not delete this. There have been many cases where a registration email was received, yet, the coach was not notified.
What if all the classes are full?

Classes are released by USA Hockey frequently and throughout the season up until 12/31 of the current year...

 

- Keep checking for classes, they can be added at any time

- Ensure you searched using the correct filters.
- Contact USA Hockey if you are unable to find a class

What is the last day I can attend a class? December 31st of the current year. There are no classes on 1/1 or after until Aug/Sep of the next year (8-9 Months).
What if I didn't complete my CEP coaching requirements by 12/31 of this year? Such as attending a CEP class or I forgot to register for a class? You are no longer allowed to coach or be on the ice with USA hockey or Storm and you forfeit you DIBS.
Am I able to "jump" a level. For instance, 1 to 3 or 3 to 5?

No, you can only level up one level per season and it must be contiguous. 1 > 2 > 3 > 4 > 5.

Does my current CEP ever expire?

CEP remains with you once you obtain a level. You can only level up.

https://www.usahockey.com/rules

What if I haven't coached for a long time? CEP remains with you. In some cases USAH may need to update their records, please reach out to them if there are any errors or missing information. Ex: Merge your account after using a different email between seasons.
I am a CEP level 3 and took a year off of coaching, what level is next for me? If you obtained a level CEP it remains with you, you would level up, ex: 4
Why would I take a level 5 CEP? Generally level 5 is reserved for high performance, high school and higher levels of hockey. A level 4 would satisfy the needs of Storm hockey (Non-high school).  
Are there any costs associated with CEP classes? Yes, a one-time ~$50-60 for the class no matter if in-person or virtual

 

IHS / IceHockeySystems

What is IceHockeySystems.com (IHS)? IHS is a platform which helps you create practice plans using built-in and external drills to share with your team.
Why should I use IHS? It's an easy way for you as a head coach to locate drills and apply them to a plan. You can use external and IHS resources, including the many drills available.
I have my own content, what do I do?

No matter if you are writing content down or want to draw drills using their tools or use a link from YouTube, the platform supports it all. You can check out more at https://www.icehockeysystems.com/tools

I am a skating coach, can I use IHS? Yes, there are skating drills and more, start at https://www.icehockeysystems.com/skill-development-videos/fundamentals/skating
I am a goalie coach, can I use IHS? Yes, there is goalie specific content at https://www.icehockeysystems.com/goalie-development
If I have an IHS account and attach or detach from Storm, do I keep my content? Yes, contact IHS support to attach/detach from the association you are connected to.

 

Coaching Jackets

When do I receive a coaching jacket? Generally your first season, October for traveling teams and November for non-traveling teams
I see some coaches with different coaching jackets? In some cases traveling teams purchase jackets for coaches as part of a team order. It depends on the team funds, manager and other factors.
How do you know if I have a jacket? Coaches Registration asks about your jacket. If one is requested you will be added to a list to receive.
I have a jacket which is lost, damaged, or does not fit, what do I do?

If you did not specify via coaches registration, contact the ACE

I need a jacket early? Contact the ACE
The jacket size I ordered doesn't fit? A limited amount of jackets may be available, contact the ACE
I need a coaching jacket for pictures?

There will be some jackets available to borrow during pictures. Please leave your licenses or other form of ID with the organizer parent volunteer.

 

Stipend Coaches

Do I have to register to coach? Yes, if you will be rostered on a Storm youth team.
When or how much will I be paid? Contact your level director
I have an expense? See form below

 

Skill Coaches

Do I have to register to coach? Yes, you will be rostered with USA hockey as a skills coach on a special skills roster.
When or how much will I be paid? Contact your level director
I have an expense? See form below

 

Expenses/Hired Coaches

I have an expense with Minneapolis Hockey, what do I do? Fill out and submit as instructed this form link below
Link to Independent Contractor Registration?

*2023-24

https://mplshockey.sportngin.com/register/form/412546277

I did not receive my reimbursement? Contact your Level Director to assist
What type of expenses are reimbursed? All USA Hockey credential items you pay for (Background screening, CEP Level classes, online age specific modules).  Others approved by the VP of Youth or Girls.  Expenses must be submitted before the end of January.