Sports Director of the Dnipropetrovsk Regional Ice Hockey Federation defended PhD in methods of training young hockey players at USUST
On June 26, 2026, the Ukrainian State University of Science and Technologies hosted a successful public defence of the dissertation of Danyil Skrypets, a postgraduate students at the SEI ‘Prydniprovska State Academy of Physical Culture and Sports’ and Sports Director of the Dnipropetrovsk Regional Ice Hockey Federation.
Following the public defence, the specialized academic council unanimously awarded Danyil Skrypets the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the field of study 01 ‘Education/Pedagogy’, specialising in Physical Culture and Sports (Specialty 017).
His dissertation ‘Technical training in ice hockey at the initial training stage under distance learning and coaching conditions’, was completed at the Department of Sports Games of the SEI ‘Prydniprovska State Academy of Physical Culture and Sports’, under the supervision of Professor Olena Mitova, Doctor of Science in Physical Education and Sports.
The research addresses a highly relevant challenge in contemporary sport: organising the training of young ice hockey players in a distance learning and coaching environment. The dissertation provides a scientifically grounded framework for the technical development of athletes during their first year of ice hockey training. The proposed methodology structures the training process into five thematic modules, enabling young players to progressively master the fundamental technical skills of the game. As part of the research, the author also developed a comprehensive training system incorporating introductory, simulation-based, and supplementary exercises, alongside extracurricular, remote and independent learning formats. The methodology further includes six specially designed hockey-themed sporting events and independent theoretical assignments to reinforce athletes’ understanding of the sport.
A key outcome of the research is the development of the specialised course ‘Theoretical practicum in ice hockey for the initial training stage’, which integrates theoretical instruction with the acquisition of practical playing techniques.
During the academic discussion, members of the specialized academic council admitted that the dissertation is of high scholarly quality, has practical significance, and contribute to the advancement of modern sports training methodology. Following an open vote, the council unanimously approved the decision to award Danyil Skrypets the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.
The Ukrainian State University of Science and Technologies warmly congratulates Danyil Skrypets on the successful defence of his dissertation and wishes him continued success in his scientific career, implementation of new research projects, professional growth, and further contributions to the development of Ukrainian ice hockey and sports science.
