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Habits to a Successful Start of the Hockey Season: Grit, Adaptability, & Team First Mentality

The start of a new hockey season is here! It presents new opportunities and the chance to grow as both a player and a teammate. No matter age/skill there are a few important areas every young player should focus on: work ethic, understanding your coaches, and being a great teammate.

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Work Ethic is always #1
Although talent and skill are the most sought after attributes to an individual’s game, concentrated effort is what separates good players from great ones. Every rep in practice and dryland, along every drill is a chance to improve. Effort isn’t just about doing what’s being asked—it’s about the approach one takes to improve themselves and their teammates. Finding consistency in preparation and pushing yourself even when no one is watching is a great start. Focusing on consistent effort from day one and your game will naturally improve, coaches will notice (and reward such efforts) and teammates will have no choice but to follow your lead.

Adjusting to Different Coaching Styles
Similar to that of players, no two coaches are the same. Some are tough and direct, others are more patient and encouraging. Throughout your hockey journey, you’ll encounter many different personalities and teaching styles. Instead of comparing one coach to another, focus on what you can learn from each. Every coach has something valuable to offer, and being open to their methods shows maturity and respect. Remember, their goal is the same as yours—to help you become a better hockey player and person.

Be the Teammate Everyone Wants
Hockey is the ultimate team sport. You can’t win games or improve as a group without support. Being a good teammate means more than passing the puck—it’s about encouraging others, staying positive, and putting the team before yourself. Your behavior and attitude are infectious to the people around you. Are you going to celebrate your teammates’ successes, pick them up when they’re struggling, or roll your eyes when you didn’t get what you want? The value of a player who makes the locker room stronger is higher than the value the ones who score goals because at the end of the day, if individuals come together as a team everyone will score and accomplish their goals. You are the creator of your own environment, so what kind of teammate are you?

Final Thoughts
The beginning of the season isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about setting habits that will carry you through the months ahead. Focus on working hard, listening and adapting to your coaches, and being the kind of teammate who makes everyone better.