Aim of the study. The main aim of this study is to attempt to optimize a model of an ice hockey training system for children and youth with respect to the current economic and political conditions and to present the viability of using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) as an innovative multi-criteria method of solving problems in sport. Material and methods. T. L. Saaty's AHP method [1-3] was used to solve a decision problem. For the purposes of the study, a group of 11 experts who conducted

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... omparisons based on a special questionnaire was created. Collected data were analyzed using the Expert Choice software. Results. An analysis of the obtained values of priorities indicated actions that should be considered during ice hockey training based on relevant criteria. These actions are as follows, in decreasing order of priority values: increasing the number of ice hockey matches played, focusing on the type and significance of matches, preparing coaches, and improving players' physical fitness. The Canadian-American model of training was found to be the most effective, followed by the Russian and the Czech models. NR 64 2013 AN TRO PO MO TO RY KA SUMMARY