Tips for Teaching Your Youth Hockey Player to Manage Their Gear

Hello Hockey Parents,

If you've ever spent a frantic 20 minutes searching for a missing elbow pad right before a game, you know the struggle - managing hockey gear can be a challenge! However, it's a crucial aspect of fostering responsibility in young athletes. So, if your hopeful NHL star often misplaces their stuff, here are some useful tips to help them effectively manage their hockey gear.

1. Gear Ownership:

Talk to your player about the importance and value of their hockey gear. Explain that it's their responsibility to take care of their equipment because it protects them on the ice and plays a key role in their performance.

2. Gear Checklist:

Create a checklist of all the necessary gear. Review this list with your player before and after each game or practice to ensure everything is packed. Encourage your player to keep this habit even when you're not around.

3. Designated Gear Space:

Having a specific place to store all gear can save time and mental effort. This could be a shelf in a closet, an area in the garage, or even a corner of the room. This helps your player know where to find and replace their gear.

4. Cleaning and Maintenance:

Teach your youth player the importance of regularly cleaning and airing out their gear. Explain how it helps prolong its life and performance. This can also teach them to treat their gear with respect.

5. Personalized Gear:

Consider marking your player's hockey gear with a fabric marker or personalized labels. This can deter mix-ups and will help your player quickly identify their belongings.

6. Gear Bag Etiquette:

Guide your player on packing their bag systematically - heavier items at the bottom, lighter ones on top. The same gear should always go in the same pocket, making it instinctive to find and replace.

7. Instill Accountability:

A forgotten piece of gear equals a lesson learned. It might sound tough, but allowing your player to face the consequences of forgetting their gear (like sitting out a practice) can teach them the importance of responsibility.

Remember, teaching gear management is a step-by-step process. There will be missteps along the way. Encourage, guide, and provide constructive feedback. With patience and consistency, eventually, your youth player will master the art of managing their hockey gear.

Here’s to raising responsible and accountable athletes!

Erin @ My Hockey Store.