The ABCs of Hockey According to Saul L. Miller

The ABCs of Hockey According to Saul L. Miller

In high-pressure moments — a game, a tryout, or even a tough practice — your mental game can be the difference between hesitation and high performance. In his book Hockey Tough, Saul L. Miller introduces the Hockey ABCs, designed to keep athletes clear-headed and decisive under pressure.

While rooted in hockey, Miller’s approach, especially what he calls Power Thinking, applies to athletes in every sport. It’s a powerful reminder that preparation, internal dialogue, and confidence fuel consistency.

A – Strategy (Situational Thinking)

Miller encourages players to define their role within different scenarios — power plays, forechecks, penalty kills, etc. Having a mental roadmap in these situations eliminates hesitation and sharpens decision-making.

This applies far beyond hockey. Athletes in any sport benefit from mentally mapping out key roles and responsibilities. Visualizing common situations—like defending a fast break, executing a serve-and-volley, or running a designed play—reinforces confidence and helps athletes react instead of overthinking.

Coaching Tip: Write out or walk through three game scenarios and your role in each. Define where you should be, what you need to see, and what success looks like.

B – Personal Thoughts (Performance Cues)

This is where your internal dialogue either builds you up or breaks you down. Miller emphasizes using personal affirmations and short performance cues to keep your mind aligned with how you want to play.



These aren’t fluffy mantras — they’re short, powerful reminders that direct your attention, keep you in the moment, and regulate your emotions. Here are some examples:

• “I am fast and quick to the puck.”
• “Head up, see the ice, be a playmaker.”
• “Take the Body and Control the Gap”
• “Shoot to Score.”

Your cue might be about speed, positioning, communication, or toughness — what matters is that it’s yours. These phrases help block out distractions, remind you what you need to do to be elite, and reconnect you with your best mindset.

Coaching Tip: Pick one cue for your next game. Write it on your water bottle, repeat it in the locker room, on the bench, and before your first shift.

C – Confidence Through Preparation

When strategy and self-talk align, confidence naturally follows. Athletes don’t need to feel confident to perform well — they need to be prepared. Visualization, clear thinking, and empowering inner dialogue create the mental reps that generate confidence and composure.

Miller’s concept of Power Thinking proves that mindset isn’t something you hope for — it’s something you build.

“The mind is a powerful tool that can shape the outcome of any game.” — Mario Lemieux (NHL Hall of Famer)