awareness
In order for anything to change, one must become aware that something needs changing. For myself, I was the problem in every situation. I was the common denominator and I eventually became aware that since i’m the problem, I am also the solution. So it’s about being honest with ones self and then working on your thinking, your choices and habits. Getting these to align with your goals, is going to be vitally important for sustainable success.
Breathe
A big foundation in my coaching, is conscious breathing and using it to amplify your mental performance. It’s a powerful tool for recovery and also for protecting one’s energy. As players, we are going to face negativity outside of us and knowing how to observe and not absorb, is crucial for overall well being.
Self talk
The conversation going on in your mind, is the most important one you will ever have. The mind, body connection says that what we think, we will feel in our body. Positive thoughts, positive feeling. During games, practices and gym sessions, you owe it to yourself to be as positive as possible. Because our thinking impacts our energy, which effects our effort and therefore, our performance.
Connor Lacouvee, 29 Slovakia
“I have sincerely enjoyed my time working with Newts. He’s an incredible mentor who has not only helped me become a better hockey player, but a better person as well. I feel an increased sense of confidence, daily energy levels, and passion for hockey. Him and i have worked together to remove performance anxiety, negative self talk, and doubt. He taught me various breathing techniques, which allows me to be more in the moment. Newts derives most of his coaching from a deep understanding of the players psyche, which allows him to find and explain why we act and feel certain ways. This holistic approach, has allowed me to see the root cause of my insecurities and prompted me to tackle them head on. I can’t recommend his personal coaching enough, it has changed my life!
Mack Oliphant, Holy Cross D1
I feel like my game has taken another jump this season, and a bigger one than ever before. Obviously through the offseason I’ve gotten stronger and better, but really my mind has gotten a lot clearer and I feel like that’s been a huge part of that jump. As someone that has been very mental during games and practices, where one bad play or sequence could check me out of the game and ruin my night, doing breath work has been my key to staying focused on my next shift and not dwelling on the past. Breath work has helped my endurance on the ice, being able to play 26, 27, 28 minutes a night, and feeling like I could go for another 10. I’m a big believer in the benefits of breath work, and I’ve began to use it in every part of my life, and have experienced its benefits in all those aspects as well.
Declan Cavanaugh, 16 Cleveland Wildcats AAA
Coach Newton has been a great mental teacher and mentor. He has helped me in numerous ways including, but not limited to school, athletics and more. It has helped my performance in hockey, as the mental part of the game makes a huge difference. Your mind is a muscle and a tool, and coach Newton really helps you develop that tool. His teaching is great for everybody, not just athletes.
Tyler Schmidt, 19 Kelowna Chiefs
Since working with Jacob, I have noticed an increase of confidence on and off the ice. He has taught me the mental tools and skills to help me in situations that apply to hockey. I enjoy working with Jacob as it has helped me feel more prepared going into games, practices and the start of the season. I would recommend him for anyone looking to take their game to the next level and for anyone wanting to become a more confident person