Hockey is a fast, intense, highly demanding sport that requires quick bursts of speed, sharp decision-making, strong skating, and the ability to repeat those efforts over and over again. Because of that, what a player eats before stepping on the ice affects their energy level, focus, endurance, and recovery. Understanding the best combination of carbohydrates and protein before a game is important for any player who wants to feel strong, stay quick, and avoid running out of gas halfway through a period.
The truth is that losing an edge almost never comes from just one cause. Instead, itâs nearly always a combination of how the skates were sharpened, the playerâs own technique, and the ice conditions theyâre skating on. Understanding how all of these factors work together helps you guide players toward real solutions while also building trust and credibility in your shop.
With mental toughness always being a key to solid hockey play, we’re thrilled to once again present Shawnee Harlee’s monthly insights into that area. And, in this entry video, she addresses the well worn question, “My bad! My Bad!”
Folks should know I create this page as sort of a courtesy, trying to give visitors a sense of what’s “coming” within the next month…
Safe plyometrics are becoming one of the most valuable tools for hockey players who want to build stronger skating power, quicker acceleration, and more explosive movement patterns on the ice. Many young athletes hear the word âplyometricsâ and immediately think of high box jumps or difficult drills they see on social media, but real plyometric training doesnât start with extreme exercises. It starts with learning how to jump and land safely, because the goal is to build power, not create injuries…
Understanding how multi-sport balance supports long-term growth can help families create a smarter approach that protects their young athleteâs passion, motivation, and physical safety. When families find the right balance, kids often perform better in hockey and enjoy their training more throughout the year.
Tryouts are one of the most stressful times in the hockey year, not only for players but also for parents and coaches. The tension doesnât come just from competing for a spot, but from the uncertainty that surrounds the process. Families want clarity, players want fairness, and coaches want a smooth evaluation period where athletes can perform their best. A huge part of making that happen is strong communication.
Most teens already know sleep is important, but many donât realize just how closely sleep is connected to their strength, reaction time, mood, learning ability, and long-term athletic development. For hockey players who balance school, practices, games, training sessions, and travel, sleep isnât just something nice to have — it is one of the biggest competitive advantages available…
Creating an inclusive locker room culture in hockey is one of the most powerful ways to improve team chemistry, individual confidence, and overall performance. A locker room should never feel like a place of stress, worry, or judgment…