Matt Pettinger Coaches Virginia Wild at SkateQuest Reston
Wednesday, 11.28.2007 / 2:10 PM
/ Community
Washington Capitals
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 Washington Capitals left wing Matt Pettinger attended the Virginia Wild’s weekly practice at SkateQuest Reston on Tuesday, Nov. 13. This was the inaugural visit to a practice session for a Caps player through the Coached by a Cap program.During practice, Pettinger demonstrated specific skills and emphasized the importance of positioning, puck handling and passing to the 19 Wild players on the Under-18 AA Midget team. He participated in a shooting drill, giving the Wild squad the unique opportunity to connect passes with an NHL player. Pettinger also spoke briefly with the group about maximizing their on-ice touches during practice and practicing with the same intensity as in games. “It was great for our kids to hear from a professional,” commented Wild head coach Mark Thompson. “The attention to detail he brought to our practice was very valuable. The kids can appreciate what it takes to be successful coming from him.” Many of the Wild players took advantage of Pettinger’s visit by asking him questions specifically about his training as well as chatting one-on-one with him between drills. Upon the conclusion of the session, Wild players took a team photo with Pettinger and received gift bags and autographs. The coaches and players thanked Pettinger for coming out to give them tips and demonstrations to improve their play.  “When the kids are older, they appreciate and understand the game more so they can pick up on good practice habits and passing techniques,” said Pettinger. “The Wild did that tonight and so I feel like I’ve helped them.”Teams of all ages in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area are encouraged to click here (http://www.capstickets.com/puckstobucks.html) or contact Tim Bronaugh at 202.266.2341 or tbronaugh@washcaps.com to learn more information about entering to be Coached by a Cap. |
