The Ride To The Rink - Parents and Players Should Talk Before Youth Hockey Tryouts

Our Kids Play Hockey

On this week's episode of "The Ride To The Rink," Lee dives into an often-overlooked aspect of hockey tryouts and evaluations: the mental and emotional journey that players and their parents experience. While the physical challenges of tryouts are widely acknowledged, the psychological pressures accompanying them can significantly impact performance and well-being.

Episode Highlights:

• Understanding Anxiety in Tryouts: Lee shares insights into the common anxieties faced by both players and parents during the evaluation period. Recognizing that nerves are a natural response because it means you care deeply about the outcome is a crucial step toward managing them.
• The Importance of Open Communication: Emphasizing the value of discussing feelings of nervousness or anxiety, Lee suggests that open conversations between parents and children can alleviate stress and build a supportive environment.
• Focusing on What You Can Control: A key message of the episode is the empowerment found in concentrating on effort, preparation, and attitude—elements within a player's control—rather than the uncontrollable aspects of team selection.
• Dealing with Disappointment and Success: Lee offers perspective on handling both the disappointment of not making a desired team and the joy of success, reminding listeners that effort and personal growth define a player more than the team they play for.
• A Call for Unity and Support: The episode calls on families to stand united, focusing on mutual support and effort as they navigate the tryout process, highlighting that the journey is as important as the destination.

Lee closes the episode with words of encouragement, reminding everyone that they are not defined by the outcome of tryouts but by their dedication and resilience. Whether you're a player feeling the weight of expectations or a parent coping with your own set of anxieties, this episode is a must-listen for anyone getting ready to try out for their next season in youth hockey.

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