RBIHF NATIONAL COACHING CLINIC
LEARN TO PLAY (LTP) CERTIFICATION 2026–2027
Course language: English
Target age groups: U8, U10 and U12
Kickoff weekend: Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026
Location: Mechelen
Attendance during the entire kickoff weekend is mandatory.
COURSE DESCRIPTION
The Learn to Play certification is the RBIHF’s introductory coaching course for coaches working with the youngest age groups in Belgian ice hockey: U8, U10 and U12.
The course introduces participants to the IIHF Player Development Framework and the RBIHF National Development Plan. Coaches will learn how to translate this development plan into age-appropriate practices for young players.
The course focuses particularly on:
• Age-appropriate player development
• Cross-ice games and small-area games
• Station-based practice organization
• Creating fun, active and engaging practices
• Basic communication with young players
• Player recruitment and retention
• Building a safe and positive learning environment
The LTP certificate is mandatory for coaches who wish to coach U8, U10 or U12 teams within the RBIHF competition and development structure.
SEASON-LONG CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
The LTP certification program covers the entire 2026–2027 season and consists of:
• A mandatory two-day kickoff clinic in Mechelen
• An introduction to the RBIHF National Development Plan
• An online open-book theoretical evaluation
• On-site practical evaluations during club practices
• Personal feedback from an RBIHF Regional Development Manager
• Individual calls or online webinars when required
• A final evaluation at the end of the season
Following successful completion of the theoretical evaluation, the participant will receive a temporary LTP Coach Licence for the 2026–2027 season. This temporary licence allows the participant to coach U8, U10 and U12 teams while completing the practical part of the certification program.
ON-SITE PRACTICAL EVALUATION
During the season, an RBIHF Regional Development Manager will visit the participant’s club and observe one or more practices given by the participant.
The evaluation will consider:
• Preparation and organization of the practice
• Use of the RBIHF National Development Plan
• Age-appropriate exercises and teaching methods
• Player activity and involvement
• Communication and interaction with players
• Safety and practice management
• The coach’s ability to create a positive learning environment
After each observation, the practice will be discussed directly with the participant. The Regional Development Manager will provide feedback and award an evaluation score. These scores will play an important role in the final certification decision at the end of the season.
KICKOFF WEEKEND
The mandatory kickoff clinic will take place in Mechelen on:
Saturday 12 September 2026
Sunday 13 September 2026
The detailed daily schedule will be provided approximately two weeks before the course.
FINAL CERTIFICATION
Participants who successfully complete the theoretical evaluation, the practical observations and the season-long development program will receive the official RBIHF Learn to Play Coach Certificate at the end of the 2026–2027 season.