3 Must-Have Virtues For Hockey Parents
The puck drops and your mini Gretzky glides across the ice. Your heart swells with hope and pride. Will this be their breakout game? Their moment of glory?
Not so fast, eager parent. Curb your ambition. These fledgling athletes need room to stumble, to fall without shame. For now, let go of fantasies about championships, scholarships and scouts in the stands.
Focus instead on the thrill of the ice beneath their skates, the crisp sound of blades carving, the awkwardness of novice knees wobbling. See their flushed cheeks and unwavering effort. In these small triumphs lies the true victory.
When errors happen, as they will, bite back the critique itching to escape. Shouting rarely helps them learn. Simply reassure and redirect. They’ll improve with time and practice. For now, keep egos checked and tones even-keeled.
If opponents play dirty, remain dignified. Should calls seem unfair, trust karma to balance the scales. Exuding grace, not outraged entitlement, is the example our children need.
When spirits sink after defeat, shift the lens wider. Recall highlights, humor and camaraderie. Listen more than lecture. Through compassion and context, dejection lifts.
With the right mindset, the rollercoaster of youth sports can nourish kids beyond the stats. Patience, restraint and perspective are the pillars to maintaining your cool through it all. Keep these close and victory will surely come – not just on the scoreboard but at home.
