Being a Hockey Parent

From the moment you find out that your child made the team, you are a hockey parent. It is your job, from that point forward, to love, support, and encourage your little hockey player. Keeping a few things in mind will help you to be the best “hockey parent” you can be.

To begin with, RELAX, don’t put a lot of pressure on your child. Yes, you want your son/daughter to do his

or her best, but that doesn’t mean you should ever berate your child (or anyone else’s) for mistakes. Also, don’t push your child toward very specific goals, such as being an NHL player. While “big goals” can be reached, making goals too specific and broad can lead to disappointment, dissatisfaction, and feelings of not being good enough. Focus on your child playing to the best of his or her ability, at which ever level they skate.

Attend and enjoy the games.  If you are of a competitive nature, don’t let your exuberance for the “W” give you reason to not simply enjoy the game and your child's participation. Positive support means a lot to your child. Avoid booing, not at the ref’s or the other team.  You want to show good sportsmanship and teach it to your child. Never attempt to approach the referees or the coaches during a game. Just remain calm, no matter what happens and try to remember, at the end of the day, it is just a game. A good rule of thumb is the 24 hour rule, if you have something that concerns you, see how you feel in 24 hours before you speak openly about it.

If you can keep a positive attitude and keep your expectations and your emotions in check, your child should get a lot of enjoyment out of hockey. Remember, you want hockey to be a fun, pleasant experience for your child, so try not to take it too seriously. Relax and have fun, and your child will too.

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