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As Team Canada gears up for the Milan Cortina Olympics, head coach Jon Cooper is once again emphasising the importance of the little things in hockey. His now-iconic ‘Small Moments’ speech, delivered at last year’s 4 Nations Face-Off, has resonated deeply with the players, underscoring that greatness is often built on a foundation of overlooked yet crucial actions.
A New Era for Team Canada
During the inaugural 4 Nations Face-Off last year, Cooper gathered his athletes to impart a motivational message that would significantly impact their mindset. With the majority of the squad lacking experience in high-stakes international play and only a handful of players remaining from the 2014 Olympic gold medal-winning team, Cooper aimed to set a new tone.
“Everyone focuses on the highlights, the iconic goals and plays that define championships,” he explained. “But it’s the small moments—those blocked shots, backchecks, and forechecks—that truly shape a winning team.” This philosophy highlights the necessity of recognising and valuing every contribution on the ice.
The Power of the Unseen
Canada triumphed at the 4 Nations tournament, clinching victory against the United States, with Connor McDavid’s overtime goal becoming a celebrated highlight. Yet Cooper asserts that his memories of the game are filled with the less glamorous aspects. “While McDavid’s goal will be remembered, I’ll always recall the face-offs won and the defensive plays,” he reflected.
This focus on minute details creates a sense of accountability and teamwork, vital for success in the Olympic arena. By sharing this insight, Cooper aims to instil a collective mentality within his squad—one that values every player’s role.
Expanding the Message
As Team Canada reconvened this autumn in Calgary, Cooper expanded upon his original speech, integrating examples from various sports to illustrate his point. He referenced Nick Taylor’s crucial putt at the 2023 Canadian Open, emphasising that every successful moment is built upon earlier, less celebrated efforts.
Additionally, he highlighted the Boston Red Sox’s historic comeback in the 2004 MLB playoffs, focusing on the team’s strategies from the very first game of their series against the Yankees. Cooper also showcased footage of Canada’s victorious 4×100-metre relay team at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where individual performances paled in comparison to their collective success.
Emotional Resonance
After delivering his impactful message to the players, Cooper was invited to speak to Hockey Canada’s board of directors. He adapted half of his speech for the audience, which elicited an emotional response, even from the coach himself. “I didn’t expect it to resonate so profoundly,” he confessed, reflecting on the tears shed during that meeting.
Brandon Hagel, who has played under Cooper both for Team Canada and the Tampa Bay Lightning, remarked on the lasting impact of the speech. “It’s definitely one I’ll remember for a long time,” he stated, adding that while he missed Cooper’s Stanley Cup speeches, this one stands out.
Why it Matters
Cooper’s emphasis on the significance of small moments is not just a motivational tactic; it is a philosophy that could shape the future of Team Canada in their pursuit of Olympic gold. As they prepare to compete on the world stage, the team’s focus on these foundational aspects will be crucial in fostering a culture of excellence. By acknowledging that every play—no matter how minor—contributes to the grand narrative of success, Cooper is equipping his players with the mindset necessary to achieve greatness. This approach may well be the key to unlocking their potential as they aim for gold in Milan.
