Unlock the secrets behind building elite hockey talent with SMWW’s 8-week online Hockey Player Development & Strategy course, led by renowned NHL executive Mike Smith. With decades of experience as General Manager of the Chicago Blackhawks and Assistant GM of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Mike brings unparalleled insight into player development, team-building, and modern hockey strategy. This course provides a comprehensive look at how today’s top organizations evaluate, develop, and optimize player performance at every level—from amateur to professional.

Whether you’re a coach, scout, executive, or analyst, this program equips you with the tools to help players reach their full potential and gives you a strategic edge in today’s highly competitive hockey landscape.

Understand the stages of player growth and the key attributes that define success at each level of competition.

Learn how top-level executives build rosters through draft strategy, development pipelines, and performance forecasting.

Explore how analytics, video, and on-ice tactics combine to create effective game plans and long-term development models.

Discover how professionals assess a player’s ceiling, character, and role fit using both qualitative and quantitative methods.

Learn how to design individualized training and development programs to help players maximize their potential.

Mike Smith is a respected veteran of NHL front offices with over 35 years of experience, having served as General Manager of the Chicago Blackhawks and Assistant GM of the Toronto Maple Leafs. A pioneer in the use of hockey analytics and a former Director of Player Personnel, Mike has a proven track record of identifying and nurturing talent. His extensive experience makes him the ideal mentor for anyone looking to understand what it takes to develop winning hockey players and teams.

Participate in weekly live Zoom sessions with Mike Smith and SMWW staff, offering direct access to one of hockey’s most strategic minds.

Work through practical case studies and development strategies used by NHL teams and hockey programs worldwide.

Learn to use the same tools and evaluation frameworks used in professional hockey organizations.

Earn a respected credential from SMWW, demonstrating your expertise in hockey player development and strategic planning.

Elevate your career and help shape the future of hockey by enrolling today. For more details and to sign up, visit the SMWW Hockey Player Development & Strategy course.