A New Season, A New Opportunity: Navigating Red Deer Minor Hockey Tryouts

A New Season, A New Opportunity: Navigating Red Deer Minor Hockey Tryouts

With the start of a new hockey season upon us, there's a buzz of excitement in the air as players in Red Deer lace up their skates and hit the ice once again.  However, along with the thrill of a fresh start comes the inevitable nerves that accompany tryouts.

Hockey is a fantastic sport that teaches so many valuable life lessons, and we all love being a part of it, but let's face it tryouts can be one of the most nerve-wracking times of the season.  Everyone feels it parents, players, and even coaches.

While some players may thrive under the pressure of tryouts, the reality is that many find it overwhelming.  As a parent, there are steps you can take to help ease your child’s anxiety during this crucial time.

It’s natural for parents to be emotionally invested in their child’s success, but it’s important to be mindful of how your own behavior can impact your child’s mindset.  A calm and supportive approach can make a world of difference.  The athletes on the ice are all giving their best effort and encouragement should be for all the athletes and not directed towards one.

Every parent wants what’s best for their child, but sometimes the pressure and anxiety parents feel can unintentionally affect their kids and kids pick up on everything, whether it's during the car ride to the rink or while they're on the ice.  So, it’s important to stay positive and composed.

Avoid putting additional pressure on your athlete by emphasizing the significance of the tryouts. Your athlete already knows how important these tryouts are.  They hear it from their friends and past teammates.  As much as possible, keep the conversation light and focus on supporting them.

Hockey players, even from a young age, are creatures of habit.  Maintaining a familiar routine can help provide a sense of stability during tryouts.

If your child has a pre-game routine like arriving at the rink at a certain time, stretching before hitting the ice, or even a specific pre-game meal, stick to it.  Consistency in their routine can help them feel more at ease and focused.

We also emphasize the importance of overall well-being.  Make sure they’re getting enough sleep, eating well with a balanced diet, and staying hydrated.  A well-rested and well-nourished player will perform better and feel more confident.

When it comes to offering advice, keep it simple.  Effort and attitude are two things every player can control, and they are qualities that coaches always notice.  Encourage your child to give their best effort and to stay positive, regardless of the outcome.

We want players to highlight their strengths during the tryouts.  With limited time for evaluations, it’s important for players to showcase what they do best.  Whether it’s speed, skating ability, or a powerful shot, now is the time to let those skills shine.

Red Deer Minor Hockey has worked hard to ensure that every player has a positive experience, regardless of the team they make.

We’ve designed our tryout process to be fair and thorough, and we’re committed to ensuring that every player finds the right fit.  It’s important for families to know that whether your athlete makes the top team or not, they will be part of a strong, supportive program that values development and growth.

We also encourage parents and players to keep the bigger picture in mind. Not making the top team doesn’t mean the end of a player’s hockey journey. In fact, it can often lead to more opportunities for development, leadership, and ice time on another team.

At the end of the day, we want every player to remember that tryouts are just the beginning of the season. No matter which team your athlete ends up on, they’ll have the chance to improve, learn, and enjoy the game we all love.

It has been a great start to the tryout season and as it gets busier and busier make sure you are checking the web site for updates.

Yours In Hockey,

Jason Stephens

General Manager

Red Deer Minor Hockey