How to help your child cope with stress of hockey tryouts

Hockey lovers rejoice: the puck is about to drop on a new season. But before the first game comes a necessary evil – tryouts. The process can be extremely stressful for young players.

“It’s a bit nerve-wracking at times,” 11-year-old forward Jamison Beauchemin said. “I just skate and try as hard as I can.”

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There are many ways parents can help their superstars score a spot on the team. Experts say the biggest is to not focus on factors kids can’t control.

“The more you talk about a poor decision or politics, you’ve just limited your child’s ability to get better,” sport psychologist Dr. Adrienne Leslie-Toogood said.

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If they do get cut, the goal is to stay positive. A healthy attitude is key to ensuring your child remains hooked on hockey.

“If a kid goes away and works harder, they’ll be great next year,” Leslie-Toogood said. “If a kid loses their love of their sport, they’re not going to make the team next year.”

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Keeping them away from what’s at the heart of the game.

“I like playing hockey because it’s just fun to play on a team with friends,” Beauchemin said.