Every kid’s different.
Some blast music. Some tape their stick three times. Some shoot a ball off the garage for an hour.
And that’s fine — routines are good. But if we’re being honest, a lot of players go through the motions without knowing if it’s actually helping.

So let’s talk about what a good pre-game routine looks like — one that’s simple, effective, and sets players up to compete.

Start With This: Move Your Body

Before you even get to the rink, your body should already be awake.

I’m not talking about a full workout, but something:

• Light bike or jog

• Dynamic warm-up in the garage or living room

• Skipping rope, jumping jacks, or stickhandling with intent

Moving your body gets your brain firing too. Showing up cold and expecting to just “get into it” by the second period doesn’t work.

Eat Something That Fuels You

I see kids show up under-fueled all the time. A bagel four hours ago isn’t enough.

60–90 minutes before the game, get a mix of carbs and protein:

It doesn’t have to be perfect — just make sure it’s enough to get through the game feeling strong, not sluggish.

Hydrate (All Day, Not Just Before Warmup)

Chugging water in the dressing room before the game doesn’t make up for not drinking all day.

Best bet: start early and sip often. Add electrolytes if you’re a heavy sweater or playing back-to-back days.

Mentally Dial In

A lot of young players never check in mentally before a game. They scroll TikTok until the coach starts talking.

Here’s something better:

• Visualize your first shift

• Remind yourself what kind of player you want to be today

• Set a simple focus (ex: “Be first to every puck” or “Win battles low”)

That 30 seconds of focus can change how your game starts — and how it goes.

Routines Are Personal — But They Should Have a Purpose

There’s no one-size-fits-all. Some players need to loosen up. Others need to focus. But going through the motions without a reason? That’s not a routine — it’s just habit.

Ask yourself:

• Does this help me feel ready?

• Does this get me in the right mindset?

• Does this get my body going?

If the answer’s yes, keep it. If not, adjust.

Last Thing: Keep It Simple
A routine should help you, not stress you out.
Forget the superstitions. Forget trying to copy someone else’s warm-up.
Find what works for you — and be consistent.

That’s how you build confidence before the puck even drops.