Finding Balance: Navigating the Spring Hockey Debate for Young Players

As the season winds down for many, the pursuit of championships comes to a close, late evenings at the rink for practice are over, and the stress and drain of tryouts fade away, allowing you to hang up the laces for a few months.

Taking some time off over this May 24 weekend has been awesome, offering just a sneak preview of the weeks and months ahead. But wait - now you're being told that Spring Hockey is a MUST, and players need to be on the ice 12 months of the year.

To compete at the highest level, year-round dedication is indeed needed - but that doesn't necessarily mean 12 months on the ice.

Over the past few weeks, many parents have reached out to me, seeking my thoughts on the matter. I see both sides of the argument, and I'll share some thoughts to help you decide what makes sense for your player and your family.

Here's the BIG thing to remember - Spring Hockey is a business, and people are making money. You have to decide if that additional hockey investment is worth it, especially considering the growing costs of the sport and financial strain overall for most families.

A few springs back, one of my daughters was asked to join and play a couple of tournaments in the spring with Breakaway Hockey Development. At the time, we were also just coming out of COVID, she was missing the game, her friends, and valued the experience to play the game that was taken from her, like so many others in 2020 and 2021. Also, moving to a new all-girls center that season, she wanted to make some new friends as the COVID dressing room restrictions didn't really allow kids to be kids.

Personally, I've had some amazing experiences with Spring hockey, but I also give a lot of credit to the Breakaway Hockey Development team we worked with who had a vision for this being about fun, and not overcharging by adding words like "Elite" to their name, which can create a false allure for some.

Summarizing our experience with spring hockey over the past few years, it has been remarkable. Working with Breakaway Hockey was fantastic, and their emphasis on creating a positive experience for the players was evident. We've shared some memorable moments, created fun camping memories, and it's been delightful to stay connected with all the girls who played at other centers when our paths crossed at the rink.

With that said, I would encourage families to consider what works best for them. Taking a break from the rink can absolutely benefit the long-term development of an athlete.

As you head into the summer with your player, I'd encourage considerations for the following training principles;

Physical Rest and Recovery: Young hockey players engage in intense physical activity during the season, leading to muscle fatigue and increased risk of injury. Taking a break allows their bodies to recover, reducing the risk of overuse injuries and burnout.

Mental Refreshment: Continuous participation in hockey can lead to mental fatigue and decreased motivation. A summer break provides players with the opportunity to recharge mentally, regain focus, and rediscover their passion for the sport.

Skill Diversification: Spending time away from hockey allows young athletes to explore other interests and activities. This diversification not only prevents burnout but also promotes overall athletic development by engaging different muscle groups and motor skills.

Family Time and Social Development: Hockey seasons often demand significant time commitment, limiting opportunities for family bonding and social interactions. A summer break allows players to spend quality time with family and friends, fostering emotional well-being and social skills.

Long-Term Athletic Development: Overemphasis on year-round hockey can hinder long-term athletic development by neglecting fundamental movement skills, strength training, and overall physical literacy. Taking a break enables players to focus on these foundational aspects, enhancing their overall athletic ability.

Also, can't help but think these athletes know a thing or two about hockey and skill development.

"I think it's really important for kids to play other sports. It's good for their body. It's good for their mind. It's good for their soul. It's good for their overall development." - Wayne Gretzky

"Taking a break from hockey in the offseason is crucial for physical and mental recovery. It allows you to come back refreshed and ready to perform at your best." - Sidney Crosby

"Playing multiple sports not only prevents burnout but also helps develop different skills that can benefit you in hockey. It's important to have a balance and enjoy other activities." - Connor McDavid

 "I encourage young hockey players to explore other sports during the offseason. It helps prevent injuries, keeps the passion for hockey alive, and promotes overall athleticism." - Hayley Wickenheiser

"Summer is the time to reset and recharge. Trying different sports keeps you mentally sharp and physically fit. It's all about finding balance and enjoying life beyond hockey." -Jonathan Toews

In the end, as you navigate the complexities of youth sports, it's essential to remember the value of rest and to prioritize what truly makes the player happy. Whether it's taking a well-deserved break after a long season or diving into spring hockey with enthusiasm, the most important thing is ensuring that the experience fosters fun, growth, and fulfillment for the young athlete. By finding this balance and listening to the player's wishes, you can support their journey in sports while nurturing their overall well-being and love for the game.