The district playoffs are starting soon and for most teams the final periods are about to be played. The headline comments above were actually said by a son to his father/coach. It is interesting that a fifteen year old player is able to succinctly articulate his feelings and his anguish. In twelve words he expressed what so many have written in these pages and in youth sports publications for years.
Hockey is a kid’s game and it is about the kids. Oh sure, winning is important, or rather trying to win is important. Parents and coaches sometimes get too caught up in the win and loss record of the team. Parents worry about what line their child is playing on and especially if the coach makes a change. “Why is the coach changing the lines?My child can’t player with the child of lesser abilities, it will hurt his career. The speculation and wondering is interesting but not important compared to the many valuable lessons that kids learn playing sports.
In a recent discussion with the father of a young man who played A Bantams for me in Wayzata and played high school hockey there, I learned his son is a straight A student in college and playing sports recreationally at school. The father remarks that his son did have some interest from Division 3 schools, but not the schools he wanted to attend. In their family college is required and hockey is optional. Both father and son are happy.
This same parent has younger children playing hockey and we shared ideas about what a parent learns as their kids go through the youth hockey programs. Here are some of the lessons learned, some the hard way.
Instead of anger and frustration it is a time for celebration and reflection. Celebrate a season of hard work, sweat, tears and laughter. Celebrate new and old friendships on and off the ice. Reflect on how the players have grown as hockey players and individuals. Savor the victories and defeats equally as both offer important lessons and valuable memories. If you remember the points listed above your journey in the game will be far more enjoyable for you and the players in your family.