Option 2:

Hockey is a physical game, and like most sports, the most athletic players are often the best ones. That's why it is so important for players young and old alike to focus on their strength and conditioning during the offseason, rather than just spend their time honing technical skills like shooting and passing. The last several seasons have shown us that the players with the most impact often don't have the best technical skills, but are the strongest, fasted, and best conditioned players on the ice, wearing down their opposition through force of will and body more than any tactical choice. I think all young players looking to make the jump out of the SMJHL and into the SHL should take note of the importance of physical conditioning, but it's even more important for aging players who are beginning to lose a step. If you can't keep up with the speed of the game around you, or stay on your feet after a hard check, no amount of skill will be able to keep you in the league.