ADULT HOCKEY TRAINING
EVOLVED
EXPERT-LEAD SKILL DEVELOPMENT DESIGNED TO GROW YOUR GAME, NO MATTER WHERE YOU’RE STARTING.
Mallards Signature Skills Programs
Find Your Squadron.
Improve As One.
Progress feels better when it’s shared. Skills Squadrons bring adult players together at similar stages of their hockey journey, mixing the power of elite coaching and community, resulting in accelerated progression that can only be found at Mallards.
Our Philosophy.
When high-level hockey experience blends with a truly shared hockey culture, progression accelerates. Thoughtful structure, proven development principles, and players who support one another create an environment where growth feels natural and momentum builds fast. The result is stronger hockey, deeper connections, and a community that lasts well beyond the rink.
MEET THE COACHES
LANDON SMITH
clayton smith
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Colorado native Landon Smith progressed through competitive youth hockey and went on to experience the game at the highest levels — earning opportunities to compete in NCAA Division I hockey, participate in NHL development camps, and later play professionally in 3ICE, a fast-paced professional hockey league built around creativity, speed, and skill.
While those experiences sharpened his game and exposed him to elite coaching environments, they also clarified what Landon cared about most: the process of getting better. He saw firsthand how intentional skill work, thoughtful structure, and the right culture could unlock confidence and enjoyment at every level of play.
Mallards Hockey was created from that belief — and from a deeply personal place. Inspired by watching his mom learn to play hockey as an adult, Landon recognized how rare it was for grown players to have access to real development opportunities without pressure, judgment, or ego. He founded Mallards to give adult players the same chance to learn, progress, and fall in love with the game that younger players often receive.
Today, Landon is dedicated to building one of the most thoughtful adult hockey development programs in the country. His focus is on structured progression, skill repetition, and community — creating an environment where players feel challenged, supported, and proud to be part of something bigger than just a weekly skate. For Landon, Mallards is not just about hockey at a high level — it’s about making the game accessible, meaningful, and fun for life.
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Clayton Smith’s hockey roots run deep in Colorado, where he grew up immersed in the state’s competitive hockey community. He developed through the Colorado Thunderbirds program, learning the value of structure, work ethic, and attention to detail from an early age. As his game progressed, Clayton sought out higher levels of competition, participating in junior hockey tryouts and showcases, gaining exposure to demanding environments that emphasized pace, decision-making, and consistency.
Those experiences shaped how Clayton understands the game — not just as a player, but as a teacher. He learned how small details, repeated with intention, create confidence under pressure and allow players to play faster without forcing the game.
Most recently, Clayton competed with the Vail Yeti, a semi-professional hockey team based in Vail, Colorado. Playing in a fast, physical, and competitive setting further reinforced his appreciation for preparation, adaptability, and playing within the flow of the game — lessons he now brings directly to the ice at Mallards.
As a coach, Clayton is known for his calm presence and ability to meet players where they are. He is passionate about helping adult skaters build real, usable skills while enjoying the process of improvement. Whether working on puck confidence, situational awareness, or overall comfort at game speed, his approach is rooted in patience, clarity, and encouragement. Clayton shares the core belief behind Mallards Hockey: that development doesn’t stop at a certain age — and that hockey should remain challenging, rewarding, and fun for life.
