During the season we will introduce all new coaches of Carpathian Junior Hockey League. As first, we spoke with Jerzy Skopinski, coach of the new team in our League, team Poland Select U15.

How do you remember your hockey beginnings? Who got you started in hockey and where did you take your first steps in hockey?

My hockey beginnings was in early 80’ when world and hockey was different than today. Every boy from my hometown (Sanok) has played hockey and it was the main reason why I decided to join. We were playing not only on the ice-rink but on every yard during the long, snowy winters. My first coach was Jan Paszkiewicz who was very popular player not only in Sanok but in the whole country too.

How did your hockey career develop? What do you consider as the greatest success in your playing career?

I was playing only till the end of primary school so it is hard to say about my career development. It was memorable time to spend moments with colleagues. The greatest advantage of my trainer is that he has made me passionate about hockey to this days.

When did you begin with coaching? Did you plan to become a trainer during your active playing career? Where have you worked as a coach?

I am sport addicted person but in my life I have never thought I was a coach. After graduated the Economic University I was moved to Warsaw where my son was born in 2004. When he was three I was invited by my colleague to come to the ice-rink and try to stand my son on the skates. From the first time I was recognized passion in his eyes. In the same moment I realized to start this unexpected journey with him. The only way was to do my best and try to be better every day in coaching hockey. This adventure continues 11 years with many milestones behind. From the beginning I am coaching in Legia Warszawa hockey club. In Poland there is inconvenient to be only hockey coach because hockey is underestimated and underfunded. Currently I am working in oncology as the manager in pharmaceutical company and it helps me to realize my passion in my free time. Thanks to hockey I have very good results in my professional work.

Do you have a coach-idol? What style of hockey do you prefer as a coach?

Yes of course I have 2 coach idols. Thanks to Krzysztof Czech and Piotr Krysiak and special time when they were working for Polish Ice-hockey Federation I had privilege to work with Jari Byrski (SK8ON Toronto) and Greg Ireland (HC Lugano Head Coach) during several camps. They both are Canadiens so I prefer Canadian hockey school. Today I am still in close contact with Jari and Greg (both on picture below with Jerzy) and we are collaborating on daily basis. Jari always gives me a lot of practical advice how to work with players individually to make progress and move them on higher level. Thanks to Greg I know the whole Canadian system of the game and I became a member of Hockey Canada Coaching Network. They both help me to increase my coaching skills and follow current trends in world hockey.

And the best moment of your coaching career so far?

I still believe that the best moments are still in front of me. When I see smile on faces and o lot of players who would like to practice with me those are the great moments. It’s like a fuel for engine to work harder and harder.

What would you like to achieve as a coach? Do you have any dreams for your coaching career?

My dream is that someday in the future someone with whom I worked will be on the hockey TOP. There are some candidates but please I would like to keep it in my mind and heart. Success is a team sport so my current and previous players know that they can always count on me.

What goals do you have upon entering the Carpathian Junior Hockey League?

I have privilege to coach Poland Select U15 and our start in CJH it is kind of brave experiment. Boys selected to the team comes from different Polish clubs.
My first goal is to let them know each other very well and feel in the team comfortable.

The second goal is to learn my young players that hockey stars from the individuals skills. Later if you are good enough you will receive the chance to join the team what you are dreaming on.

The third goal is let them know that Together Everyone Achieves More (this is my definition of TEAM) and play games effective, smart and safe.
The last goal is to win blue group and face on with different clubs to make step forward.

Do you think that such an international competition can help young players in their hockey-related growth?

Yes I do. Parents of my boys puts in a lot of effort to let them play in Poland Select U15. Definitely playing with strong teams when results are tide give the boys chance to compete and move on higher level from many different perspective. I would like to say thank you to organizers for hosting us in Trebisov during the first tournament. I hope our collaboration useful and will be valuable for both parties.

SHORT QUESTIONAIRE

The best player ever: Wayne Gretzky
The best active player: Steven Stamkos
Your most favorite hockey team: Hockey Club Sanok - always in my heart
Your most favorite sport (exc. hockey): Volleyball
Your most favorite sportsman: Marc Herremans
Your hobby (exc. sport): Playing the guitar