Where it's been, where it's going, and what coaches
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Interview With Coach Jack Emmer — Page 3

I think that's been the key to any success I've had as a coach — That, and my ability to make the individuals feel good about being part of a unit.

In addition, while emphasizing the unit as a whole, we developed roles for many different players along the way. For the guys who weren't quite good enough to be regular contributors, we found an opportunity for them to face-off, play on the wing of a faceoff, play man-down defense or play man-up offense. We developed as many roles as were necessary for players to contribute to the team's success. I think that was a key.

And we made a point of acknowledging the contributions of guys that we might call "practice players," those players who didn't

get in the game on a regular basis but worked hard during the week to help get the team ready FOR the game. We weren't afraid to give those kids credit. So they knew they were making a contribution to the team's success. And they were motivated to always perform.

Something else that went along with the team approach was working very hard to be in great physical condition. And we developed a toughness about us because we WERE in great shape. That, also, allowed us to be successful.

Q: Do you believe the game is won with a more offensive or defensive strategy? Some coaches emphasize scoring lots of goals; others focus on not allowing goals. As a coach, do you think any one of these methodologies is better to start with, or do you believe it depends on your talent?

DE-FENSE