New Parents in the Game? Here is What You Need to Know!

By Todd Jackson, Hockey Canada /

 

So here you are, a new parent in Canada’s great game.  You likely have been told to make sure your son or daughter has all the right equipment that fits right and that is in good condition.  You have visited the local sports store and purchased tape, a stick, skate guards and all the amenities necessary to prepare your young player for what’s ahead.  But have you thought about the importance of your role as a parent, as your child progresses through the hockey season?

One of the most important things is that you enjoy your child’s experience in the game and that you show them that you are having fun. Hockey is all about having fun, making new friends and creating a positive family experience. As a parent in the game make sure you play a lead role in creating the fun environment that is so important. Enthusiasm, positive energy and a sense of excitement will help create a fun atmosphere.

Like anything we do, being good at it makes it more enjoyable. Hockey requires special skills that are unique to the game. Skating, stickhandling and shooting are the key ones. So, one of the most important steps for your son or daughter is to learn the basic skills of the game. Encourage them to listen closely to their coaches as they are taught the basic skating, stick handling and safety skills while on the ice.

 

Emphasize to your kids the importance of these skills and support your coaches as they give your young player the tools they need to enjoy the game and stay safe! Encouraging street hockey, inline skating and even a game of mini-sticks in the rec room are other fun ways for the kids to improve some these important skills.

As a parent you should also learn the rules that young officials use to officiate as your kids progress into playing hockey games.  Rules give structure and safety to games and it is important that parents respect the rules and the officials as they enforce these rules on the ice. Remember, that young officials are learning to and it is important that you respect them as they grow as officials in the hockey system.  We can’t play games without them and by abusing officials we lose a high number of these important components of the game every year.

Finally, we would not be completing the picture without talking about RESPECT in the game. It is imperative that all involved play a role in ensuring that respect is an integral part of hockey regardless of the level. As parents you play a very important role in helping to maintain respect in today’s game.  Talk to your kids and let them know there are expectations to being involved including respecting other players, their coaches, the officials and all the volunteers that deliver this great game. By you as a parent taking on a lead role we are one step closer to the fun, safe, respectful environment we all want to be involved in.

Have a great season and remember, enjoy the experience and take away the many positives that it generates!

Files from Hockey Now and Hockey Canada. For more information on Minor Hockey rules, training and Hockey Canada’s development models, visit www.hockeycanada.ca.