🏒 What you say before the game matters more than you think…

We’ve all been there — the car ride to the rink, the final words before your child heads into the locker room. You want to motivate them, support them, and set them up for success.

But what if some of those well-intentioned phrases are actually doing the opposite?

In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee, Christie, and Mike flip one of their most popular topics on its head — breaking down the top things you should NOT say to your child before they hit the ice… and what to say instead.

💥 From “You need to score today” to “Don’t mess up,” these common phrases can create pressure, fear, and overthinking — even when they come from a place of love.

Instead, the team shares simple, powerful ways to build confidence, encourage teamwork, and help your player step onto the ice feeling free, focused, and ready to compete.

🎯 In This Episode, We Cover:

Why “you’re the best player out there” can backfire
The hidden danger of “you need to score today”
How “don’t” language rewires your child’s thinking
Why pressure-based motivation rarely works long-term
The truth about confidence, nerves, and performance
What your child actually needs to hear before a game
How to shift from results-based talk → process-based support

🧠 Key Takeaway

Your words shape your child’s mindset before they ever step on the ice.
The goal isn’t to hype them up — it’s to free them up.

❤️ A Better Pregame Message

“I love you no matter what happens out there… and I love watching you play.”

Simple. Powerful. Effective.

📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: 🏒 What NOT to Say Before a Hockey Game (And What to Say Instead)

📩 Got a story or something you’ve said (or heard) at the rink?
Email the team at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com
— they’d love to hear it!

#YouthHockey #HockeyParents #SportsParenting #MentalGame #ConfidenceInSports #HockeyDevelopment #ParentingTips #HockeyLife #KidsSports #OurKidsPlayHockey

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3 Things You SHOULDN'T Say To Your Kids Before a Game