Early specialization in youth hockey has become far too common these days. Children are missing out on the opportunity to try and play other sports because they are staying in the rink all year-round. Yes hockey is the greatest sport out there, but children need to be given the freedom to try and learn new sports. The first 10 to 15 years of their life are meant to be spent trying to figure out what their talents are, as well as what they are interested in. Children need the chance to experiment with other sports before specializing.
There are plenty of other sports and activities out there that children can be playing and trying out in the off-season. Playing other sports can develop different skills that will translate to the hockey rink. Tennis works on quick feet and agility. Baseball works on hand-eye coordination – essential in hockey. There is also swimming – one of the best cardio workouts that is easy on your body. What’s better than being active outside on a nice summer day? Don’t force your child into the cold rink when the sun is shining, but rather give them the power to choose what they want to do. Skills that children develop in one sport are transferable to other sports and therefore will make them more athletic.
Some of the best hockey players played more than one sport growing up. Hayley Wickenheiser played softball and hockey at an Olympic level, Wayne Gretzky took his summers to play baseball and lacrosse. Jarome Iginla played baseball growing up and even played on the Canadian Jr. National team as a teenager. Playing multiple sports has made them overall better athletes and it showed on the ice!
Playing hockey year-round can lead to burnout. If a child is in their skates all year it doesn’t give them much to look forward to in the fall as it is no longer a novelty. Let them try other sports and have a little fun in the spring and summer. This will rejuvenate them and they will come back excited for the hockey season.
