Minnesota steel hockey

Future Prospects Development Program

Future Prospects Development Program

Future Prospect Development (FPD) is a development-first program designed for younger players who want to build the skills, habits, and confidence needed to succeed at higher levels before AAA matters.

FPD is part of the Steel Performance & Development Program (PDP), the training arm of Minnesota Steel. The program focuses on foundational skill development, practice habits, and learning how to train the right way in a structured, high-tempo environment.

This is not a games program. It is designed to prepare athletes for future development opportunities by teaching them how to practice with purpose.

Training Locations
FPD is offered at two PDP training locations, giving families flexibility while maintaining the same development standards.

  • Northwest Location – STMA Area
  • Southwest Location – Waconia Area

Program Philosophy
At Steel, player development happens in practice. Strong habits, attention to detail, and consistent effort matter more than early results.

FPD is designed to teach athletes:

  • How to practice correctly
  • How to focus on details
  • How to accept coaching and correction
  • How to compete at appropriate pace

There are no shortcuts in development. Players are expected to show up ready to work, listen, and improve. Drills are done with intention, and athletes are held accountable to doing things the right way, not just getting through reps.

What FPD Is

  • A development-only program
  • Focused on skill development (skating, puck skills, and practice habits
    Structured, high-tempo sessions)
  • Built to prepare players for future PDP and AAA environments
  • Designed to build confidence through correct execution

What FPD Is Not

  • Your regular mite program playing games
  • A games or travel program
  • A guarantee of future AAA placement
  • A casual clinic or drop-in skate

FPD is about building a foundation, not rushing outcomes.

Who FPD Is For
FPD is a strong fit for:

  • Returning Mite players who can skate
  • Athletes who love hockey and want to improve
  • Families who value long-term development
  • Players who benefit from structured, purposeful training
  • Are able to be on the ice without parent assistance
  • This program is ideal for athletes who are not ready for AAA yet but want to start training the right way.

Program Structure

  • Schedule: Monday & Wednesday evenings
  • Format: 2 practices per week
  • Session Length: 6 weeks (12 total practices)
  • Sessions:
    • Spring Session - Late March to early May
    • Summer Session - Late July to end of August
  • Training Environment: PDP skill sessions with partial exposure to higher-level pace
  • Sessions are structured to maximize quality reps, attention to detail, and proper execution.

The Steel Development Pathway
FPD builds the foundation → Steel Performance & Development trains athletes inside our AAA environment → Minnesota Steel teams are where athletes compete.

Participation in FPD does not guarantee placement on a Minnesota Steel team. However, it provides athletes with early exposure to PDP standards, expectations, and coaching.

Standards & Expectations
Limited enrollment to protect quality
Athletes must demonstrate effort, focus, and coachability
Continued participation is based on fit and commitment
These standards ensure a positive, structured environment for all participants.

Session Information

  • Spring & Summer Session
    • Dates: Late March – Early May & Late July – End of August
    • Cost: $650
  • Spring Session
    • Dates: Late March – Early May
    • Cost: $350
  • Summer Session
    • Dates: Late July – End of August
    • Cost: $350

 

Still have questions?

If you still have questions or are unsure about our programs please feel free to reach out to us!