Sports

Tips for hockey players to prepare for league qualifiers

March 3, 2023   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

With playoffs and league qualifiers underway across the province, Minor Hockey Associations are offering tips for players on how to prepare and stay focused.

First off – keep having fun. While playoffs and qualifiers can be stressful, don’t lose sight of what it’s all about.

This could be the final few games you have with your teammates, so enjoy the experience no matter what happens.

Players should stick to their routines. By staying with your hockey routine, you will eliminate distractions. Keep your mind focused on the task at hand.

This includes checking all your gear before leaving for the rink and arriving with plenty of time.

When you start playing, focus on the game at hand. Your team may not have had a great regular season, but nothing stops you from being the better team on the ice during any game.

Qualifiers are a marathon, not a sprint. Don’t worry about other games; focus on the one you are currently taking part in.

Being an underdog team can produce surprising results during qualifiers. Putting in a full team effort will yield positive results on the ice.

Make sure you eat right. Eating healthy foods will give you the energy you need on the ice. Along with proper rest, your body will be better equipped to take on the challenges you face during a game.

Focus on the little things during a game. Be competitive right from the start in every game.

Puck battles in the corner and those extra strides to get the puck before your opponent all add up over the course of a game and will tilt the odds in your favour.

You will know the dates of your qualifiers in advance, so make sure you plan ahead. Avoid any distractions or conflicts that can cause you to miss a game or practice.

As part of a team, your teammates will rely on you to be there when you are needed.

Playoffs and qualifiers are a big deal. Being ready for them means you will have your best personal results and help your teammates do their best as well for a successful season.

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