tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9048513897002542822024-02-20T21:39:14.746-06:00Big Bear HockeyYouth Hockey Tournaments in 15 cities, offered at all levels, for the hockey player who craves competition. Boys and Girls.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger416125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-11921845027173414202019-11-13T00:30:00.000-06:002019-11-13T00:30:02.237-06:00What type of Leaders Do Kids Need?<br />
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Children often look up to the people who are in authority
over them, people like their parents and their <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">coache</a>s. </div>
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<o:p></o:p><br />
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Thus, if you have a young athlete in your life, it’s
important that you act as a good leader. But, what does that mean exactly? What
type of leader should you be?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Challenge and Support
<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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To start with, you should definitely challenge the young
people around you. This means that you don’t allow them to not give their all.
You always push them to be better, to play harder, and to take advantage of
every opportunity presented to them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And, while pushing kids is good, pressuring them is not. You
shouldn’t badger them about winning every game or be too hard on them when they
make a mistake. Instead, good leaders teach kids how to see mistakes or failures
as learning opportunities, instead of as reasons to beat themselves up.<o:p></o:p></div>
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A good leader can push in positive ways, but he or she will
also support the child every step of the way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When you give a piece of constructive criticism, always follow it with a
compliment. And, be willing to listen and offer advice when a child has a
problem or just needs someone to talk to.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Avoid Fear Tactics<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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In addition to being supportive and kind, make sure you
don’t fall back on fear tactics as a way to “reach” kids because it just plain
doesn’t work.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Don’t threaten that a child will never “go pro” if he
doesn’t practice. Don’t manipulate children with bribes to make them perform a
certain way. Don’t do anything that makes a child fearful or desperate to win
or to play to a certain level.<o:p></o:p></div>
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No leader is perfect. But, if you can remember that your
main goal is to challenge, support, and ultimately empower the young people in
your life, you’ll find it easier to make the right moves.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-38033895970688667112019-11-08T00:30:00.000-06:002019-11-08T00:30:02.037-06:00Win or Lose, Always be a Class Act<br />
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If you’re a hockey player or if you regularly spend time
around <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">hockey players</a>, whether as a coach, parent, or anything in between, you
know that every athlete experiences both wins and losses.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And, no matter whether a team wins or loses, it’s important
to show good sportsmanship and a good attitude. Being a “class act” is
important no matter the outcome of a game. </div>
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<o:p></o:p><br />
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<b>Celebrate Wins, but Be Respectful<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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If you are lucky enough to be on the winning end of a game,
it’s fine to celebrate your victory. High-five your teammates, cheer, cry. Do
whatever you need to do to express your happiness over the win.<o:p></o:p></div>
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However, do be mindful of the other team. Don’t rub your win
and, by effect, their loss in their faces. Teasing, taunts, jeers, or anything
of the sort should never be acceptable. Instead, be happy about your win, but
also genuinely congratulate the other team on a game well-played.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Try to keep in mind that, next time, your team could be on
the losing side. That simple thought should help to put things in perspective
and should keep everyone’s behavior in check.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Always Shake Hands<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Most of the time, hockey games require a mutual handshake
between the two teams after the game, offered as a way to show respect and to
remember that, after all, it’s just a game.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sometimes, after a loss, all you want to do is storm off the
ice and pout. However, never allow this behavior. Hold yourself or your players
to a standard of always participating in the handshake or other show of respect,
no matter the outcome of the game.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Winning is great, and losing is not. However, the only thing
you can ultimately control is how you react to both. So, as an athlete,
remember to put class and good sportsmanship above all else, and you really
can’t go wrong.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-91882997013357275032019-11-04T00:30:00.000-06:002019-11-04T00:30:01.924-06:00The Role of Data in the Recruitment Process<br />
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Many young athletes hope to one day earn an athletic
scholarship. However, these scholarships can be hard to come by.<o:p></o:p></div>
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When at athlete is lucky enough to score a scholarship,
however, he’ll enjoy reduced tuition or even free tuition in some cases, having
medical expenses reduced or even covered, and an increased opportunity of one
day going pro.<o:p></o:p></div>
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As mentioned, though, scholarships are hard to get, with
only around 2% of high school athletes ending up with one. Fortunately, there
are things you can do to help the athlete in your life stand out, and a lot of
your efforts hinge on data.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Data: The Proof is in the Numbers<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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A big reason that proven data helps an athlete stand out is
because numbers are always accurate and give a recruiter a clearer <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">profile ofan athlete</a> and his abilities. So, while it’s still important to list highlights
and overall achievements, data is rapidly become one of the most impressive and
accurate features looked at by college recruiters. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>How to Make Your Data Stand Out<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Because data has become so important to recruiters in recent
years, you must work to make your athlete’s data stand out. </div>
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<o:p></o:p><br />
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For starters, be sure you’re tracking it via the most
reliable source possible. Try and use a data management software or program
that is popular and commonly used among high school athletes, while also being
reputable.<o:p></o:p></div>
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For best results, try and have your athlete’s data tracked
for as long as possible. The earlier they start tracking and the more progress
they show, the more appealing they look to recruiters. <o:p></o:p></div>
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While data might not be the only thing that recruiters care
about these days, it is a major thing. So, follow these tips to help your
athlete have a higher chance of securing a sports scholarship.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-38380967209886709992019-10-30T00:30:00.000-05:002019-10-30T00:30:05.611-05:00How to be a Mentaly Tough Athlete<br />
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When
most people think of <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">athletic strength</a>, they think of athletes doing exercises
and building muscle to increase their power and endurance.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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And,
while physical strength<i> is</i> an important part of being an athlete, mental
strength is equally important.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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When
an athlete is mentally strong, he can always perform at his best, no matter
what. Even if the competition is very tough or he’s not feeling great, a
mentally strong athlete can push through and play strong.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />
So, you may be wondering, how do you build mental strength? Well, like physical
strength, it takes regular “exercise” and practice.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Know
Your Weaknesses <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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When
you go to the gym, you focus on areas that need more development. The same
thing needs to be done when building mental toughness. Athletes must carefully
observe themselves and make note of their mental weaknesses. From there, they
have to come up with a plan to combat those weaknesses. </div>
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<o:p></o:p><br />
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<br /></div>
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Consider
if and when you become distracted on the ice, what causes you to get frustrated
and lose your temper, or what kind of things lead you to feeling and acting
defeated. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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If
you can identify your triggers and the bad thoughts or attitudes they cause,
you’ll find it much easier to come up with an actionable plan to keep these
things from happening. Whether it’s giving yourself an inner pep talk when you
feel discouraged or taking a few deep breaths to say calm, addressing mental
weaknesses is a huge step toward building mental strength and toughness.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Let
Go of the Past<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Many
athletes falter and fail because they cannot stop beating themselves up over
things that went wrong in the past. Or, they’re so fearful of repeating a past
mistake that they let their fear hold them back from playing their best.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Be
honest with yourself about whether or not you’re holding onto a fear or a
regret from a past game. Then, actively work on letting it go to increase
mental strength and health.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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These
are just a couple of strategies for building mental toughness. Work with a
coach or even a sports psychologist to discover more strategies and put them to
the test.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-72612718312420891122019-10-25T00:30:00.000-05:002019-10-25T00:30:13.654-05:00Common Myths about College Recruiting<br />
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Do you have a young hockey player who is desperately hoping
to <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">get recruited</a> by a college team? If so, you’re probably busy crossing your
fingers and learning everything you can about the recruiting process. As you
learn, just be careful you don’t buy into any of the common myths surrounding
recruiting.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Coaches Can Make Contact Anytime<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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The myth about coaches being able to get in touch whenever,
wherever actually comes from the fact that things did used to work that way in
the past. Not so long ago, NCAA DI recruiting allowed for athletes to call on
coaches, and the coaches could answer whenever they wanted to. So, even though
coaches couldn’t necessarily contact athletes whenever they wanted, many people
found ways to work around these rules and still basically be in the clear.<o:p></o:p></div>
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However, that’s not the case anymore. As the rules stand
now, no recruiting conversations or verbal offers can take place until June 15
of the summer following the athlete’s sophomore year. Recruits can send emails
and letters to recruiters to let them know who they are, but no communication
from the recruiters can occur until after the above date. </div>
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<o:p></o:p><br />
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<b>Coaches Will Seek You Out<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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For a long time, the thought was that, if an athlete was
really talented, coaches would come and find him. While this does still happen,
it doesn’t happen to every good player out there.<o:p></o:p></div>
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That’s why it’s important for you and your athlete to get
proactive if college recruiting is a goal of yours. Send emails to recruiters
who you think are a good fit. Also, utilize tools, like online recruiting
networks, that allow athletes to post videos, news articles, and more showing
off their skill.<o:p></o:p></div>
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This is just some of the misinformation floating around
about recruiting. So, be careful what you believe, do your research, and
educate yourself. The more you know, the less likely it is that your child will
get legitimately recruited by the right person.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-75770201438816439712019-10-21T00:30:00.000-05:002019-10-21T00:30:12.202-05:00Is Your Yong Athlete Sleep Deprived?<br />
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Youth hockey players have a lot on their plate. They have to
get up, go to school, go to practice, and head to games a few times a week or
so. Plus, they have chores at home, as well as exercise and athletic training
to build strength. All of that, plus socializing with friends, doesn’t leave
much time for getting enough rest. <o:p></o:p></div>
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So much activity and not enough rest can quickly lead to
sleep deprivation, which, in turn, can lead to decreased <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">success on the ice</a>, as
well as an increased risk of strain and injury. Plus, when a player is sleep
deprived, he can potentially make the ice less safe for other players around
him as well. For these reasons, it’s important to know the warning signs of
sleep deprivation and to address the problem if any of the signs are spotted.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Being Slow or Difficult to Wake Up<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Most parents have had to shake their children awake in the
morning. Kids really hate getting up early, and they usually just want to go
back to sleep. </div>
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<o:p></o:p><br />
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<br /></div>
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While that’s common among young people, take notice if your
child is especially difficult to wake up. Perhaps you have to call him multiple
times before he hears you, or you shake him for quite awhile before he even
starts to stir.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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If you think that your child’s reluctance to wake might be a
little more severe than normal, sleep deprivation could be the cause.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Increased Clumsiness <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Something else to be on the lookout for is increased
clumsiness. If your normally graceful child starts bumping into things or
taking way more spills on the ice than he used to, sleep deprivation might just
be the cause. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of course, regardless of the signs you notice- these are
just a couple of possibilities- there’s only one cure for sleep deprivation:
getting enough sleep. Set a bedtime and stick to it if you’re worried about
sleep deprivation or think your child athlete might have it. After all,
adequate sleep is only going to benefit your child.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-31052756004377097652019-10-16T00:30:00.000-05:002019-10-16T00:30:07.567-05:00Is Your Sports Rivalry Getting Out of Control?<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the reasons that people <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">compete in sports</a> is because
a little healthy competition is a lot of fun. In fact, it’s not uncommon for
teams to develop little rivalries against one another. This is particularly
common in youth hockey.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sometimes, these rivalries stay fun and are enjoyable for
all. Other times, though, they start to get a bit out of control and can lead
to some serious bad blood between players. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV-kNjefgXInJSgs6IFfRU93Dbfib8RwwN1YHrQWZqVkMrSTobdDHgQ46q2qg_pY7J1s1v_xM2hocDybTo0_iuVlPL3Dxcbr6AkiGHrtDLRrir5fkG31s7nZyn6jsvthAyQngfjzn0LbMu/s1600/rivalry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="447" data-original-width="721" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV-kNjefgXInJSgs6IFfRU93Dbfib8RwwN1YHrQWZqVkMrSTobdDHgQ46q2qg_pY7J1s1v_xM2hocDybTo0_iuVlPL3Dxcbr6AkiGHrtDLRrir5fkG31s7nZyn6jsvthAyQngfjzn0LbMu/s320/rivalry.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s important to be aware of the warning signs that a
rivalry is going too far so that you can stop the problem in its tracks, before
it really grows out of control.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Vandalism<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One major warning sign is when one team vandalizes something
of the other’s. Things like destroying skates or equipment, spray painting mean
words on locker room doors, or destroying an athlete’s personal property are
all way out of line.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In fact, it’s a good idea to discourage any kind of
tampering with the other team’s property. Don’t allow athletes to hide gear or
other items, even in a joking way, from the opposing team. This type of
behavior can quickly escalate out of control.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Deal with vandalism seriously if it does occur, and teach
players to respect the property of others, even rivals.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Name-Calling<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Name-calling might not seem like a big deal, especially if
it’s done in a joking manner. However, what can be a joke to one person can
completely tear apart the confidence of another.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Plus, name calling sometimes has a way of devolving into
racial slurs or remarks about sexual orientation. To keep this kind of thing
from happening, institute and strictly enforce a no name calling policy for all
rival teams.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A little team spirit and a little rivalry is healthy. Take
things too far, though, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster. Thus, do your
best to get rivalries in check and under control.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-84159693341839033382019-10-11T00:30:00.000-05:002019-10-11T00:30:08.980-05:00Don't Limit Your Player to Only Hockey<br />
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If you’re like most parents, then you love seeing your <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">child involved in hockey</a>. It’s a wonderful sport, and of course, there’s always that
dream that your child could turn pro.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Due to your big dreams, you may be tempted to have your
child concentrate solely on hockey and to play it exclusively. In truth,
though, that’s not the best idea. Your child will be much better off if you
allow and encourage him to play multiple sports and pursue other athletic
interests. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That may be tough to take for parents with big hockey
dreams, but there really are benefits to playing multiple sports.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Keep Burnout at Bay<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To start with, when you allow your child to try out
different sports, he’s sure to have a blast. After all, trying something new is
always fun, even if you’re not the best at it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PA5BnjnKh4B5S1bBVMUHsA4rB9PbG64Yf1o-Lkv3e9L0B5q1CYbjIsl0crMqEB7N5Uo1TneWNfGPe4XpRb169KFdVy5Qx2u15dMkOWFuHtpBVOzuT999D2luU9jaBqP9imz65haVb_Pz/s1600/multi+sport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="263" data-original-width="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PA5BnjnKh4B5S1bBVMUHsA4rB9PbG64Yf1o-Lkv3e9L0B5q1CYbjIsl0crMqEB7N5Uo1TneWNfGPe4XpRb169KFdVy5Qx2u15dMkOWFuHtpBVOzuT999D2luU9jaBqP9imz65haVb_Pz/s1600/multi+sport.jpg" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You also take away some of the pressure. When kids know they
can try other things, they don’t feel so “locked in” to hockey or like they
have to excel at it. They start to see sports as opportunities for fun and
growth, rather than as something they have to constantly stress out over.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This will keep your child from feeling burnt out on hockey
or on sports in general, increasing the chance that he’ll have long-term, fun
experiences with sports, instead of giving up on them entirely.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Reduce the Risk of Overuse Injuries<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One major reason to encourage participating in other sports
is because it can reduce the risk of overuse injuries, common among those who
specialize in a sport from a young age.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Playing different sports means using the body differently,
which reduces the risk of repetition related injuries. It can also increase and
build muscle in areas that hockey might have missed and create improved motor skills
all around, both of which make overuse injuries less likely.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Playing a different sport is fun, and it can also keep your
child in good health. So, even if it’s hard for you to let go, allow your child
to explore the sports world and try out different things.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-29727397999896311302019-10-07T00:30:00.000-05:002019-10-07T00:30:03.792-05:00Concussion Care<br />
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Has the young hockey player in your life recently suffered
from a concussion? This sports-related injury is surprisingly common among
young athletes, and not just hockey players either. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Following a concussion, your child should receive proper
medical care and attention. Once the doctor gives the okay, however, your child
can return to the ice if he chooses. Before he does, though, there are some
things you should do. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUSLpCB_f9L5ZgZQa6xBbOXowjANbJG1PqdAU8lOgaLkKyC5cr8gbbMBHEBCRX2UAWhAQuuxskwhErXBhzNKxfICraNz3ppg6OAmE8rUymkkFHbNIMQGx1Nl8yXiy6Lv3o7XnL2ci9kaTb/s1600/concussion+care.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="421" data-original-width="589" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUSLpCB_f9L5ZgZQa6xBbOXowjANbJG1PqdAU8lOgaLkKyC5cr8gbbMBHEBCRX2UAWhAQuuxskwhErXBhzNKxfICraNz3ppg6OAmE8rUymkkFHbNIMQGx1Nl8yXiy6Lv3o7XnL2ci9kaTb/s400/concussion+care.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Consider a Baseline Test<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For child athletes under five, it’s always a good idea to
have a baseline test performed. This test will determine the child’s balance,
concentration, memory, and problem-solving abilities.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If a concussion occurs, you can then perform another test
and compare the results to the baseline to see if anything has changed due to
the injury. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If it’s too late for that in your case, consider baseline
testing before your child takes the ice again. That way, if concussions occur
in the future, you’ll have the baseline test as a comparison tool.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Develop a Care Plan With Your Child’s Coach<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Following a concussion, be sure to talk with your child’s
coach. These professionals can be a wonderful resource for helping your child
to safely transition back into the sport.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Share any relevant information from your child’s doctor if
you feel comfortable. Then, from there, you and the coach can work to develop a
plan for getting your child healed, back in shape, and back on the ice. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Address Fears<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally, don’t forget that, while your child’s body may be
healed, he may still be dealing with fear and anxiety involving returning to
the ice.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Talk to your child about his worries, offer comfort, be
patient, and never force him to continue the sport if he really doesn’t want
to.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A concussion is scary for both the child and the parent.
But, if you follow these tips, you can get through it together.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-60814613512460569702019-10-02T00:30:00.000-05:002019-10-02T00:30:09.233-05:00What to Celebrate WhenYou Lose<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Losing is never fun. It doesn’t feel good. It’s
disappointing, and if you’re not careful, a loss can zap your confidence.
However, if you have a child who <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">plays youth hockey</a>, the occasional loss is
going to be inevitable. Sometimes, even entire seasons may not go as planned.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since losses will happen in your child’s life, it’s
important that you know how to see the positive side of things. Yes, when you
lose, there may not feel like there’s <i>any</i> positive side. But, there is.
You just have to see it, and, when you do, your child will too! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg41PrbWkmCZ20VzY3noZMDbg1KS1nF7ytyLfLTSjmknk6dCzEzv7i254KzsGHe2OUn1OGjUOFBp03u0emZzO3sOI41q4TtewuQzwSMkOOfxhfWswbuW4qMobYMrLRkft8-kobvQcg7pwCN/s1600/come+play.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="396" data-original-width="487" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg41PrbWkmCZ20VzY3noZMDbg1KS1nF7ytyLfLTSjmknk6dCzEzv7i254KzsGHe2OUn1OGjUOFBp03u0emZzO3sOI41q4TtewuQzwSMkOOfxhfWswbuW4qMobYMrLRkft8-kobvQcg7pwCN/s320/come+play.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Focus on the Experience<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When your child is feeling down in the dumps after a loss,
encourage them to look back on the entire experience, not just the outcome of
the game.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Did they have fun traveling to the game? What was the best
part of playing in the game? Was the experience exciting?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you can get your child to think about the positive and
fun side of their experience, in spite of the loss, you can help them to focus
more on the positive and feel better.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Celebrate What Was Learned<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In addition to talking about the fun parts of your child’s
experience, ask your child what they learned by participating in the game.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Could they have skated faster? Gotten more rest the night before?
Attended more practices?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Don’t encourage your child to blame himself or feel bad
after a loss, but do encourage him to think about what might have been done
differently. Then, celebrate the fact that your child has this new knowledge to
carry to the next game.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finding things to feel happy about after losing isn’t always
easy. But, if you and your young athlete think carefully, you can usually come
up with plenty of things to celebrate.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-41390969669667831412019-09-27T00:30:00.000-05:002019-09-27T00:30:00.475-05:00Practical Questions to Ask Your Player's New Coach<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
When you learn that your child is getting a <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">new hockey coach</a>, all kinds of questions to ask probably spring to your mind. You might
want to know, for example, if the coach believes in giving all players equal
playing time or makes this decision based on merit. You might also want to know
what the coach’s policy is on discipline and things like missed practices. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgntdTlmRbEGVqOui1OaZiKChx9y4Uw9rR6tp5mdbW19FL6LWJsT_LKxodRFU8wm4EEzn4TWztX-NVCoJUt1_D4BNQhbjqMs50XTlSWtHInTqf-6Xfubq5PCdqV36rl7fbLAuj4h8gY5Nmh/s1600/coach2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="238" data-original-width="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgntdTlmRbEGVqOui1OaZiKChx9y4Uw9rR6tp5mdbW19FL6LWJsT_LKxodRFU8wm4EEzn4TWztX-NVCoJUt1_D4BNQhbjqMs50XTlSWtHInTqf-6Xfubq5PCdqV36rl7fbLAuj4h8gY5Nmh/s1600/coach2.jpg" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And, while those are all good questions to ask, don’t forget
that the most practical and simple questions are often the best and will tell
you a whole lot about this new and important person in your child’s life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Ask About Past Playing Experience <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Almost all coaches start out as players themselves. So, if
you want to learn about the coach and his on-the-ice credentials, ask about his
experience as a player.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He might have been the star of the hockey team in high
school or college, or he might even still be playing in an adult league. You’ll
never know unless you ask!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Ask About Coaching Training or Certifications<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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Once you know about the coach’s past as a player, take some
time to learn how he’s prepared to become a coach.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Did he go to school for physical education or exercise
science? Or, maybe he has taken specialized training or certification programs.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ideally, you want a coach with both education and real
experience. But, at the very least, you want a coach who is willing to take
steps to become even better with time. As long as you have that, don’t judge
too harshly just because there are no fancy credentials attached to his name.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In fact, if you can spend less time judging and more time
just focused on getting to know the coach, you’ll probably find that,
regardless of past experience, this is a person willing to help your child to succeed
in sports. And, really, what else could you ask for?<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-15437373971551991922019-09-23T00:30:00.000-05:002019-09-23T00:30:06.761-05:00Self-Care Tips all Young Athletes Need<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
In today’s world, young athletes, <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">hockey players</a> especially,
have a lot of stress and pressure. Sure, they’re having fun playing the sport
of their choice. But, they’re also having to balance games and practices with
doing homework and making good grades, as well as any chores or
responsibilities at home.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All of that balancing can take a toll on a player’s mental
state and health. This, in turn, can make the player less focused and
successful on the ice. To avoid these issues, it’s important for all players to
learn how to practice self-care, ideally with the encouragement, support, and
guidance of the adults in their lives.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Encourage Regular
Rest </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
It is extremely important that all people, but especially young
athletes, get adequate sleep. Youth athletes are growing, and they’re also
being tough on their bodies in the process. Thus, they need plenty of sleep to
grow and repair their bodies.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Furthermore, adequate sleep encourages better athletic
performance, improved mood and positivity, and increased focus.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Discussing the importance of sleep and setting and sticking
to regular bedtimes can help the athlete in your life to get the rest he needs.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Advocate for Water
Consumption<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Being dehydrated isn’t good for anyone. Athletes, in
particular, need to stay hydrated since the physical activity they engage in
can lead to excessive sweating, which dehydrates them further.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Provide bottled water or a reusable water bottle to the
athlete in your life and encourage them to drink it throughout the day. Also,
don’t keep sugary sodas or juice around since these lack in nutritional value
and can actually make dehydration worse.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Minimize Stress<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One final tip is to help the athlete in your life to learn
to minimize stress.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You might, for example, come up with a study schedule that
helps your athlete to get his schoolwork done while still meeting athletic
responsibilities.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Or, you could help by teaching your athlete to always be
prepared for game day by packing a bag with a healthy lunch, uniforms and
equipment, and any other necessities the night before.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When you determine what is stressing out your athlete and
then come up with a plan to target it, you’re not only reducing stress for the
athlete. You’re also teaching positive life skills that will benefit this young
person for years to come.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Self-care, in and of itself, is a positive and important
life skill. The more you teach your athlete to value self-care, the happier,
more productive, and more successful he’s likely to be.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-91673799051296545482019-09-18T00:30:00.000-05:002019-09-18T00:30:03.879-05:00How to Help Your Player Bounce Back<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">Youth hockey</a> is a wonderful sport that’s a lot of fun for
the players. However, it also teaches them a lot of lessons, lessons about
life, teamwork, and responsibility.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some
of those lessons, though, won’t be learned without a few mistakes or poor
decisions along the way. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguut2XUIwoxYQ8TxouOhem7ousGu0LNPd3l6dDHpEyNVlosCJvJQZrl-oGSfedCk21h1yDedUlZ4VtgPY9B6Tgjo_8QwisGSuoEReYYo6uNC0vCyg4UM8TJbv5UoXC-xieYujmr1e2fz4N/s1600/hockey+player.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="313" data-original-width="491" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguut2XUIwoxYQ8TxouOhem7ousGu0LNPd3l6dDHpEyNVlosCJvJQZrl-oGSfedCk21h1yDedUlZ4VtgPY9B6Tgjo_8QwisGSuoEReYYo6uNC0vCyg4UM8TJbv5UoXC-xieYujmr1e2fz4N/s320/hockey+player.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When the young athlete in your life makes a poor choice or a
mistake, what should you do? The answer isn’t to berate them or make them feel
horrible. It’s to help them to learn from the mistake and to bounce back and
become better than ever. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to help
make this possible.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Stay Calm<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sometimes, parents, coaches, and other people in a young
hockey player’s life have the tendency to “freak out” when something goes
wrong.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They might get mad when a player makes a wrong move on the
ice or stops attending practices. Whatever the case is, your job is to not lose
your cool.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Don’t blow up at or yell at your player. Instead, ask him
what’s going on, why he made the decision he did, and how he could do better
next time. Try to focus on the consequences of the bad choice and how to avoid
those consequences in the future.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When you stay calm and approach the topic in a gentle,
understanding manner, you’re more likely to get a positive final outcome.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Stop Habits from
Forming<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When players make one mistake, it’s no big deal. However, a
continued mistake can start to become a habit.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As a parent, coach, or other adult in a child’s life, you
want to prevent bad habits from forming. That’s why it’s important to reinforce
good habits, like attending practice regularly, always playing your best, and
consistently showing good sportsmanship.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And, when you do catch bad behavior or poor decisions,
address it right away. If you can prevent it from happening again, you can stop
a forming bad habit in its tracks.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Remember, your job is to be supportive and encouraging of
your young athlete no matter what. If you can do that, there’s a good chance
your player will always bounce back from any bad choices.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-43907996580115553542019-09-13T00:30:00.000-05:002019-09-13T00:30:02.462-05:00Identifying Potential Mental Health Issues in Young Hockey Players<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Are you a <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">youth hockey coach</a>? Or, maybe you’re a parent of a
player or a volunteer who regularly interacts with the athletes. Whatever the
case may be, it’s a good idea to be aware of the warning signs of a potential
mental health issue with your players. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdgCRG8Ms6TfzZUdE8iSfVlwYBQ7feCAmJTWqZrtLleX5jNsC1Pj8s1xrldFCQIzaCU39wyS1jPcKlyaS4Qkn6EEI0uf2oWaJ3S4F6NTdhyphenhyphencp1bAsLJzGNV4R7w87cIb24JKParpCgQyfz/s1600/mental+health.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="292" data-original-width="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdgCRG8Ms6TfzZUdE8iSfVlwYBQ7feCAmJTWqZrtLleX5jNsC1Pj8s1xrldFCQIzaCU39wyS1jPcKlyaS4Qkn6EEI0uf2oWaJ3S4F6NTdhyphenhyphencp1bAsLJzGNV4R7w87cIb24JKParpCgQyfz/s1600/mental+health.jpg" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today’s young athletes are under tremendous amounts of
stress and pressure, both on and off the ice. Sometimes, these feelings can get
overwhelming and can contribute to mental health concerns.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While you can’t cure mental health issues, you can be aware
of the warning signs. And, if you notice them in the athletes in your life, you
can suggest that they talk to a counselor or other professional who can
potentially help.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">What to Look For<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s important to note that there are all kinds of mental
illnesses and mental health concerns. It is never your job to diagnose a
condition. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, many mental health issues do have overlapping
warning signs you can watch out for, including:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Changes in behavior <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Being extremely emotional and/or volatile<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Overreacting to mistakes or losses<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Perfectionism <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Getting irritable and frustrated easily<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Isolating oneself from other players/the coach<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->A lack of interest in sports or other activities
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Suddenly skipping practices or games<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Poor hygiene <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">How to Help<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you have concerns about a player, talk to the player
first. Ask if anything is different or wrong in their lives or if there’s
anything you’d like to talk about.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s also a good idea to let the child’s parent know that
you have concerns. Try to do this in as gentle a way as possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Make it clear you are only saying something
because you care about the child’s best interest.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What the parents choose to do from there is up to them.
However, by noticing a potential problem and letting parents know, you could
make someone’s life much better and happier.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-81662686644222025682019-09-09T00:30:00.000-05:002019-09-09T00:30:07.584-05:00How to Mentally Prepare Your Athlete for the Big Game<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Every hockey parent has been there- the night before the big
game or even the day of. Tensions are high. Your child is nervous, worried, and
maybe even a little excited. You might feel much the same. No matter how well
you’ve prepared for this day, it’s important not to let mental tensions or
blocks get in the way. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to get your
young athlete and maybe even yourself ready for the game ahead.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Cast Aside Outside Worries<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When your child steps on the ice, the only thing he should
be thinking about is his performance and playing the game as well as possible.
If worries from home or outside life are affecting your player, it will show in
his game.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thus, work on teaching your child to put aside outside cares
and worries and to focus only on the sport. You may wish to physically have
your child write down outside concerns and throw them in the trash- a helpful
exercise. Or, you can just work on sitting down before play, breathing,
discussing other concerns, and deciding, together, not to worry about them
while on the ice.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Do Something Relaxing </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR8ghCDtp6A1LTFw-LdgFecvavyLsHh0L9TA_Bc66EuCMD0WkAi5x6CBGg0i9_vPbl6tHoZCZpC4tFwXWE2xbFpdGmJsUYP87j5I3tgxW_X9833unyd7XvJ-NfxJGFMfsRuhbHzlF268xs/s1600/relax2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="296" data-original-width="472" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR8ghCDtp6A1LTFw-LdgFecvavyLsHh0L9TA_Bc66EuCMD0WkAi5x6CBGg0i9_vPbl6tHoZCZpC4tFwXWE2xbFpdGmJsUYP87j5I3tgxW_X9833unyd7XvJ-NfxJGFMfsRuhbHzlF268xs/s320/relax2.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<b><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the easiest ways to help your player relax before a
big moment is to…well…relax. The night before the game or even the morning of,
if there’s time, do something fun and light.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Play a board game, watch a movie, or just go for a walk. No
matter what you do, relaxing and having fun can take some of the pressure off
and allow your athlete to have a good time, which often leads to playing their
best.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Don’t Focus on Winning<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally, difficult as it may be, take the focus off of
winning.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">Encourage your athlete</a> to just get on the ice and have a
good time. Don’t allow him to dwell on what a win or a loss might mean. Instead,
just keep the focus on having fun and not worrying about the outcome.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
De-stressing before a game isn’t easy. But, if you can get
your player into the right mental state, chances are that there will be nothing
major to stress over anyway!<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-90279559970777084332019-09-04T00:30:00.000-05:002019-09-04T00:30:14.139-05:00Tips for Not Being "That Parent"<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
We’ve all seen “that parent” at hockey games. You know the
one- the one who yells at the refs and/or yells at the kids- theirs and/or
other people’s- and probably storms out when things don’t go their way. If
you’re being honest with yourself, maybe you’ve even been that parent a time or
two.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
Whether you have or not, there’s always room for improvement. So, if you don’t
want to be “that parent,” and, instead, want to be better and more supportive,
just follow these simple tips.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Don’t Criticize the Competition </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdeoHR6exVPh_BAKqh9gQQiykU4DQkCyU0_mbefU9ovM8PijMgKiAKEbmruuMJW4wJigUMEBniEWjdeOo1Lyx1-CEs2QX6RmNi-r317a_ITYmEMrxP1WZOociJAUiMt1vtIicIiqzs6V0S/s1600/calm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="524" data-original-width="711" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdeoHR6exVPh_BAKqh9gQQiykU4DQkCyU0_mbefU9ovM8PijMgKiAKEbmruuMJW4wJigUMEBniEWjdeOo1Lyx1-CEs2QX6RmNi-r317a_ITYmEMrxP1WZOociJAUiMt1vtIicIiqzs6V0S/s320/calm.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<b><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One toxic thing many <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">hockey parents</a> do is criticize other
players, both on and off their own child’s team. They might make small
judgments or say horribly negative things. Either way, their behavior and their
words are still toxic and hurtful.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Make it your goal, as a parent, to never comment on another
player unless it’s positive. Even then, be careful so that your child doesn’t
feel like he’s being compared or subtly put down. This will help your child In
major ways and set you apart from those parents you don’t want to be like.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Never Pressure Your Child<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When parents see real sports potential in their child, they
sometimes put pressure on the young athlete, often without meaning to.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Even if you think your kid is the next NHL superstar, don’t
say it. Encourage your child, support your child, but don’t set impossible
standards or even make your future dreams clear. Listen to what your child
wants, honor it, but don’t pressure or even put expectations out there.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If something great happens in your child’s sports future,
awesome. But, if it doesn’t, at least your little one will never have to feel
like he didn’t meet your expectations.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No hockey parent is ever going to be perfect. But, if you
follow these tips, put your child first, and strive to be a good role model,
you’ll probably come out well above the majority.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-34282053157995555272019-08-30T00:30:00.000-05:002019-08-30T00:30:09.002-05:00Special Needs Hockey<div class="MsoNormal">
In recent years, there’s been a major push toward making all
things, including sports, more accessible for those who have different
abilities than the average person. In the hockey world, this includes making
play possible for players who may be deaf, blind, or have other special needs.
While hockey, like all things, still has a way to go on many fronts in this
area, it has made some major and impressive strides for deaf players.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>An Entire Organization </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWLI_oBXCP3wlpunFl2-mBKvYD3cA14Fvb6bzYjv1tNatcNtFRpHDHNm6HgEmr5GONC3MbqoB3udw7px-swnh0fh9agEhuqmV_4onroKEKa-CF-nGYgI910sdKPP8-ux4V7ffzJXFuOffm/s1600/deaf+hockey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="803" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWLI_oBXCP3wlpunFl2-mBKvYD3cA14Fvb6bzYjv1tNatcNtFRpHDHNm6HgEmr5GONC3MbqoB3udw7px-swnh0fh9agEhuqmV_4onroKEKa-CF-nGYgI910sdKPP8-ux4V7ffzJXFuOffm/s320/deaf+hockey.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<b><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One great organization that exists is the American Hearing
Impaired Hockey Association, which focuses heavily on making learning and
<a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">playing the sport of hockey</a> possible and more accessible for athletes who are
deaf or hard of hearing. The United States is very fortunate to have such an
organization, and hopefully many more, which target other needs, will be
developed in the future.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Making Changes at the Individual Level <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, even those players not involved with this
organization deserve the chance to play, just as all young athletes do. Coaches
are encouraged to educate themselves on how to work with people with different
abilities.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In terms of deaf athletes, coaches should learn to use
non-verbal communication, such as gestures, looks, and even sign language as
much as possible. This will help not only deaf players but those who tend to be
visual learners.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In addition to educating coaches, players should also be
taught to deal with diverse groups of people, including the deaf. Ultimately,
hockey, like all sports, should be accessible for all. Making it so simply
requires people who are willing to learn, grow, and accommodate all needs and
abilities.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Hockey is making major strides with the deaf and
with others with unique needs. Hopefully, all sports will follow its lead.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-85747828158316837572019-08-26T00:30:00.000-05:002019-08-26T00:30:16.926-05:00Is Your Family Over Invested in Youth Hockey<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">Youth hockey is an amazing sport</a>, one that can provide many
long-term benefits to your child. However, there is such a thing as being too
invested in the sport. If you feel that your child and/or your whole family may
be a little <i>too</i> into the game, consider the red flags of an
over-investment in the sport.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>You’re Going Broke </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIZrEEDgU037x6758WVCs9-hVJObH1asYzYE_OiyPW-b042T0vU4Sbn9wBkus67tObz9LPK3giDXBKWkk4PCuMy_w1BddNaCG2hwDOYTKsNdMsLUc0FF-D5usMWko7LLBLFOtkf4sZQDG/s1600/going+broke.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="392" data-original-width="560" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIZrEEDgU037x6758WVCs9-hVJObH1asYzYE_OiyPW-b042T0vU4Sbn9wBkus67tObz9LPK3giDXBKWkk4PCuMy_w1BddNaCG2hwDOYTKsNdMsLUc0FF-D5usMWko7LLBLFOtkf4sZQDG/s320/going+broke.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<b><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s no secret that youth hockey is expensive. Between the
coaching costs, the uniforms, and the equipment, even casual athletes and their
families will invest a lot.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, consider your own finances carefully. Are you
struggling to pay bills because you’re devoting too much money to extra ice
time? Are your other children going without so the “hockey star” in the family
can continue to play?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If the financial demands of hockey are causing other
responsibilities to suffer, it’s probably time to take a step back. This isn’t
to say that you have to give up the sport, but you may want to be more careful
with your money and spend on the sport more carefully.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>You Don’t Miss a Game or Practice for Anything<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What if your child came to you, feeling incredibly sick, on
the day of a major game?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Would you tell the child to go back to bed and call the
doctor? Or, would you force the child to play and save the doctor’s visit for
later?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you answered the latter, you may need to reevaluate your
devotion to the sport. When you start to put getting to games and practices in
front of everything else, like a sick child or a family emergency, you’re
probably too invested.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hockey truly is a wonderful sport. But, the most wonderful
thing of all is your child and your relationship with him or her. If the
balance starts to get a bit uneven and you’re caring about the sport more than
what matters most, it’s time to do some thinking and make some changes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-44204164743931591022019-08-21T00:30:00.000-05:002019-08-21T00:30:16.715-05:00Does Your Player have a Bad Coach? Here's How to Tell<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Frequently, hockey parents find themselves wondering whether
or not their child has the right coach for them. More often than not,
this is just common parental worry and concern, nothing more. However, in some
cases, a child may have a coach who is not doing a good or fair job. If you are
concerned that this could be happening to you, consider whether or not you’ve
noticed any of the <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">warning signs of a bad coach</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Abusive Behavior </b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzNDtWfUrPn1WMVxnHyo3WMVqcDGnJoxWbrfFp3bABD6mDll7Z-im-DuX8N-jpFfMuJXa9SjOIyjpJUPunch1q2J3jrNXrRTspFJw3xoZT4Vkr4qbK5IkG3HuxEKQ-ciCe4wUT1oO0y7_p/s1600/bad+coach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="403" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzNDtWfUrPn1WMVxnHyo3WMVqcDGnJoxWbrfFp3bABD6mDll7Z-im-DuX8N-jpFfMuJXa9SjOIyjpJUPunch1q2J3jrNXrRTspFJw3xoZT4Vkr4qbK5IkG3HuxEKQ-ciCe4wUT1oO0y7_p/s320/bad+coach.jpg" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<b><o:p></o:p></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Your child’s overall wellbeing is a lot more important than
how your child performs as an athlete. Thus, if a coach is purposefully or even
inadvertently harming a child and their self-esteem, this is a major red flag.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Good coaches do not use scare tactics, humiliation, or
threatening or intimidating behavior in order to communicate with their
students. If you see your coach being verbally or physically abusive toward
your child or if your child tells you of such behavior, report the coach and
move on immediately. No matter how effective the coach, these tactics are not
okay.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>A Focus on Winning<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Everyone likes to win. However, the sport of hockey is about
much more than scoring goals. It’s about building and empowering confident
young people.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thus, if you have a coach who cares only about winning and
doesn’t see the big picture, it’s probably time to find someone else or at
least to have a real, serious conversation with the coach about his motives and
goals for your young player.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Knowing when you have a bad coach isn’t always easy. But, if
you listen to your gut and listen to your child, as well as observe the coach
and his behaviors closely, you should know the right thing to do.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-84767146116480776442019-08-16T00:30:00.000-05:002019-08-16T00:30:08.220-05:00Are You Overestimating Your Child?<div class="MsoNormal">
Parents, especially hockey parents, tend to see their
children as perfect, or at least close to it. It’s often hard for parents to
look at their children objectively, as athletes, in that special way that
coaches do. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPShyQHlx5Y5wN4yIvX-AbSzqfdTrQ3qpoU4W1pfThV5enuAPeOsVBkhv_6hS-UZjWZabLXRfAFrxeYCZal6-rJUHvbjOlYXcXPh80SU-g-Skih1kjQ65XNSrzjHICAv_1nxmbzAYd84T_/s1600/rose+colored+glasses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="687" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPShyQHlx5Y5wN4yIvX-AbSzqfdTrQ3qpoU4W1pfThV5enuAPeOsVBkhv_6hS-UZjWZabLXRfAFrxeYCZal6-rJUHvbjOlYXcXPh80SU-g-Skih1kjQ65XNSrzjHICAv_1nxmbzAYd84T_/s320/rose+colored+glasses.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, before you get mad and demand that your child be given
more <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">ice time</a> or a “better” position, stop for a minute and consider whether or
not you’re truly being objective.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Talk to the Coach<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you think your child may be being treated unfairly, take
a minute to talk to the coach. Don’t approach the coach in an angry or
confrontational way. Instead, say that you just want to understand why the
coach is making the choices he is with your child.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If there’s a valid reason for the things you don’t like-
like your child is still working on certain skills or the coach is priming your
child for a different position than he’s previously paid- trust the coach and
his choices. The only time you should speak up is if you really think there is
some kind of favoritism or unfair treatment going on. If you and others can see
that, and you’re truly not just being “partial” to your child, then it may be
time to take real action.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Talk to Your Child<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In addition to having a talk with the coach, talk with your
child.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In a way that isn’t pressuring but is just friendly and
conversational, find out if your child is doing everything he can to be a good
player. Is he attending all practices, giving each practice and game his all,
and treating his teammates, coach, and officials with respect?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If your child is honestly doing his best and the coach is
fair, then just trust that your coach is using your child in the best ways
possible based on his current ability level. If your child isn’t doing his
best, then work with your child to improve, If that’s what your child- not you-
truly wants. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-28332609127958567772019-08-12T00:30:00.000-05:002019-08-12T00:30:01.327-05:00What are You Really Paying for when You Pay for Hockey<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s no secret that youth hockey is a very expensive sport.
Any <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">hockey parent</a> can tell you that. And, while you may have to pay for
coaching, equipment, and uniforms, that’s not really what you’re <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQZ8nY16Ntx_uHv_NBUvh55FDdkRaPvvSVgTS0wnxGXCcfW39uif1mqTQ1IYKqfe1lEr0hhCJkzgAAJmSS9qOF6U94XUL4d8OMqZ3mElN-I1BhNMUDq0A0KDmfje9cejR5E2m7Tjz7v9yu/s1600/credit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="1016" height="154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQZ8nY16Ntx_uHv_NBUvh55FDdkRaPvvSVgTS0wnxGXCcfW39uif1mqTQ1IYKqfe1lEr0hhCJkzgAAJmSS9qOF6U94XUL4d8OMqZ3mElN-I1BhNMUDq0A0KDmfje9cejR5E2m7Tjz7v9yu/s320/credit.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
paying for
when you fork over money. Instead, what you’re actually paying for is something
much more valuable.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>You’re Paying for Perseverance<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When you pay for hockey, you’re paying to teach your child
perseverance. Every hockey mom or dad has seen their child look tired and
defeated after trying to learn a new move or losing a game. But, then, the most
amazing thing happens. The child gets out there, tries again, and eventually
accomplishes a goal that once seemed impossible. The child learns perseverance
thanks to your support and your wallet. Who could put a price on that?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>You’re Paying for Teamwork<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Something else kids learn, thanks to your hockey dollars, is
the power of teamwork. Your child is learning to work with others out on that
sheet of ice. He’s forming friendships that have the potential to be lifelong
and learning about people and how they work. Your child is becoming a better
person, one who can work with a diverse range of people, and it’s all because
of you.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>You’re Paying for Lifelong Skills<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You pay for your child to learn from a coach. And, if the
coach is good, your child will learn not just about the sport of hockey but
also about life. He’ll learn to move on from losses, to work hard, to find joy
in the little things, and to be a responsible, hardworking person. All of these
things are skills that will carry your child throughout life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">So, yes, hockey is expensive. But, when you
think about all that your child gains from it, isn’t it worth the cost and then
some?<br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-38550348429854850632019-08-07T00:30:00.000-05:002019-08-07T00:30:01.681-05:00What Youth Athletes Wish They Could Tell Their Parents<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many young hockey players greatly love the sport. What they
often don’t love, however, is the way their parents act towards them. So many
hockey parents get overly focused on winning and “being the best.” Sometimes,
they focus on this so much that they drain all the love, joy, and fun out of
the sport for their kids.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You might not think you’re that type of parent. But, whether
or not you are, consider the things hockey kids wish they could tell their
parents, and see if you find something to work on as you read.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Don’t Try to be my Coach<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Resoundingly, so many young hockey players say that they
wish they could tell their parents to stop acting like coaches.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">athletes are on the ice</a>, their minds are going a
million miles a minute. They have to think about when to pass, when to
backcheck, where their teammates are in relation to them and the puck, and what
their coach is shouting at them. The last thing they need is to hear their
parents shouting instructions, often conflicting ones, at them too. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once off the ice, kids don’t want or need a lecture on what
they did wrong. Instead, they just want a hug and a “good game,” no matter
what. Parents need to leave the coaching to the coaches and just be supportive,
loving parents.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN1CiX5HTMq9xkE1xiKOU8li4V8ACn4-QUj9olVsiY3y24N80ImlPhNYBF3Uj2MioQbjH1W4s_rLxMP3clPRU8VtWDktMJQ-cFjkkc1WE0RwzrditT_ZL92_bs41ty1SeWBthgDdfmu9pd/s1600/dont+embarass+me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="1153" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN1CiX5HTMq9xkE1xiKOU8li4V8ACn4-QUj9olVsiY3y24N80ImlPhNYBF3Uj2MioQbjH1W4s_rLxMP3clPRU8VtWDktMJQ-cFjkkc1WE0RwzrditT_ZL92_bs41ty1SeWBthgDdfmu9pd/s400/dont+embarass+me.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Don’t Embarrass Me<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s often hard for kids to admit when their parents
embarrass them. Some types of embarrassment, like a hug before a game, are no
big deal.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Other types, though, can be very damaging. Kids don’t want
you to yell at the referees, especially when you tell them to respect adults.
That’s both embarrassing and confusing. They don’t want you to get angry at
their coaches or to stalk out of the rink after a loss.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Just be there, be supportive, and don’t do anything that
embarrasses your child unjustly. Chances are, when you do that, you’re
embarrassing yourself too.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Your child may never speak up and tell you what he’s
thinking. However, if you try to always put yourself in your young athlete’s
shoes- or skates-, you can probably figure it out. Treat your player just like
you would want your parents to treat you, listen to and respect what they do
tell you, and remember your role in all of this. If you can do those things,
your child probably won’t have anything he’s dying to tell you- except maybe
“thank you.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-477295355755087912019-08-02T00:30:00.000-05:002019-08-02T00:30:01.820-05:00Simple Tips to Help Young Hockey Players Improve<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are two types of <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">youth hockey</a> players. There are those
who play for fun and are just having a good time. Then, you have those who want
to be the absolute best they can be, who may even have dreams and aspirations
of going pro.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There’s nothing wrong with falling into either category.
However, for those in the second group, there are many things that can be done
to positively improve oneself as a youth player and beyond.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8YRge02TldCbs0JMQXPl5wHXoZZqz1Tlch4HBx9-N05It3vQRkOB_KXFlzRq1sDNz48gnFDMSv_GfrDletjIuPKuA23ufNC9MRkXvHyJ3QeqF0503NKEepi3fbstzlcYFozkCn39fdDVE/s1600/training.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="817" height="107" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8YRge02TldCbs0JMQXPl5wHXoZZqz1Tlch4HBx9-N05It3vQRkOB_KXFlzRq1sDNz48gnFDMSv_GfrDletjIuPKuA23ufNC9MRkXvHyJ3QeqF0503NKEepi3fbstzlcYFozkCn39fdDVE/s320/training.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Build Strength and Speed<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Often, with young hockey players, real training and off-ice
exercise gets overlooked. However, it’s important for serious young players. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hockey demands strength and speed to be effective. And,
neither of these is possible without a strong, muscular body that holds power.
For this reason, regular strength training, both on and off the ice, is highly
recommended, even for very young players.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A good coach or personal trainer can easily develop a
regimen that is healthful and helpful for kids and teens who play the sport.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Focus on Correct Execution<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Whether it’s in strength training, performing drills, or
anything else, athletes often get caught up on the number of repetitions they
can do. Coaches sometimes fall into this trap as well.<o:p></o:p></div>
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However, instead of yelling at players to do twenty push-ups
quickly, they should ask them to do ten fully and correctly concentrating on
execution. Every move, in training and in the sport itself, should be executed
as well and as correctly as possible for players to truly grow and improve.<o:p></o:p></div>
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For this reason, take the focus off “how much” or “how many”
and redirect it toward proper form and technique. This simple change will make
a world of difference and will lead to speedier improvement all around.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If young players and their coaches and supporters can keep
these useful tips in mind, they should rapidly improve in the sport and get
that much closer to reaching their goals.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-44186678530884551562019-07-29T00:30:00.000-05:002019-07-29T00:30:06.701-05:00Sportsmanship: It Matters Now More than Ever<br />
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There’s a saying that ‘chivalry is dead.” Here lately, it
seems like that phrase could apply to <a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">sportsmanship</a> as well, especially in the
sport of hockey. Given many recent events and the increasingly cutthroat nature
of the sport itself, it almost seems like sportsmanship and its value has gone
out the window. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY_eM2w7ICqf8SCVO_kBQ6NVH69SdbxGkklQg9bYxKOeYRqs27vl9SGArEQZ8CGgk2rTT1325gzINg22W5DW8UYrf11cGIwQW1g6UeEGQvsx5XfQOK3dVLnUumLWl9KDMkxBS4EPkAqnk_/s1600/u+mad+bro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="518" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY_eM2w7ICqf8SCVO_kBQ6NVH69SdbxGkklQg9bYxKOeYRqs27vl9SGArEQZ8CGgk2rTT1325gzINg22W5DW8UYrf11cGIwQW1g6UeEGQvsx5XfQOK3dVLnUumLWl9KDMkxBS4EPkAqnk_/s320/u+mad+bro.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you need a clear picture, consider the fact that
Ndamukong Suh recently and purposefully stepped on Aaron Rodgers’ leg...or that
time he kicked Matt Schaub. Even worse, think about when Todd Bertuzzi punched
Steve Moore and the “Malice at the Palace” brawl. These types of things are
becoming more common than ever in the hockey world, and what’s even worse is
that young players are witnessing or hearing about these types of things, often
from people they consider their heroes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Does this mean that we should just let kids think this kind
of behavior is normal or acceptable? Absolutely not. Now, more than ever,
parents, coaches, and everyone involved in the world of youth hockey needs to
drive home the point that good sportsmanship matters. This means having clear
rules of conduct and equally clear punishments for those who violate the rules.<o:p></o:p></div>
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When big stories break about bad conduct, don’t just hope
kids don’t notice them. They will, especially in the age of social media.
Instead, talk to them about what happened and why it was wrong. Use these
examples as a way to teach good sportsmanship and reinforce why it matters. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This might not be enough to change the entire climate of
hockey as it now stands, but it can change the climate of your local team. And,
ultimately, if young players are raised to value sportsmanship, it can lead to
a change in the future of the sport.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904851389700254282.post-65530849797659320182019-07-24T00:30:00.000-05:002019-07-24T00:30:03.637-05:00Instilling Work Ethic in Young Hockey Players<br />
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<a href="http://bigbeartournaments.com/">Young hockey players</a> are expected to learn all kinds of
skills and qualities that they can utilize both on and off the ice. However,
one of the most important qualities- good work ethic- is also one of the hardest
ones to teach. So many kids in today’s world just seem lazier and more entitled
than in generations past. However, if you know a few tips for teaching this
skill, you can drill it into your players in no time at all! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg41PrbWkmCZ20VzY3noZMDbg1KS1nF7ytyLfLTSjmknk6dCzEzv7i254KzsGHe2OUn1OGjUOFBp03u0emZzO3sOI41q4TtewuQzwSMkOOfxhfWswbuW4qMobYMrLRkft8-kobvQcg7pwCN/s1600/come+play.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="396" data-original-width="487" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg41PrbWkmCZ20VzY3noZMDbg1KS1nF7ytyLfLTSjmknk6dCzEzv7i254KzsGHe2OUn1OGjUOFBp03u0emZzO3sOI41q4TtewuQzwSMkOOfxhfWswbuW4qMobYMrLRkft8-kobvQcg7pwCN/s320/come+play.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Keep Commitments <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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One of the first ways to instill good work ethic is to
require players to honor the commitments they make. This means requiring them
to be at every practice, no matter what and requiring them to make good on
other commitments they may make, like signing up to bring the team snack or
signing up to help put away equipment. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Players must learn that their word means something and that,
regardless of how they might feel on a particular day, they need to honor what
they’ve said they’ll do by actually doing it. This means having consequences
when commitments aren’t honored. While that may seem like “tough love,” it’s
worth it because it works<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Stress Proper Preparation<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Another way to solidify good work ethic from an early age is
to teach players to prepare properly. Have a rule that they have to have all
their equipment and gear with them and on by a certain time in order to
participate in a practice or game. Also, on some days, let players be
responsible for their own warm-ups and other necessary prep. Preparing for work
is just as important as the work itself, and players need to learn this concept
from a young age.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Giving players responsibility and then requiring them to
live up to that responsibility and then enforcing consequences when they don’t
is the basic key to building good work ethic. You may have to get tough, and
you may occasionally upset some players, but at the end of the day, if they
learn work ethic, then you’re doing the right thing!<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0