As a youth hockey coach, parents often ask me the same question:

“What do you look for in a young hockey player?”

Recently I was watching a skate for my son’s age group as players from both teams at his level prepare for upcoming tryouts. As a coach, it’s hard not to observe everything happening on the ice.

A few players from the other team really stood out to me — unfortunately not for the right reasons.

It wasn’t about their skill level. It was their attitude.

During the practice and scrimmage I noticed things like:

• A sense of entitlement
• Poor reactions when things didn’t go their way
• Extra long shifts
• Negative body language toward teammates and situations

It was a reminder of something I tell players all the time:

Tryouts are not just the 3–4 days when organizations officially announce them.

Tryouts are every single time you step on the ice.

Coaches notice more than players realize.

Personally, when I evaluate young players, I’m looking for things that go beyond goals and highlight plays:

• Coachability – Are they listening and trying to apply corrections?
• Effort – Do they compete in drills and battles?
• Compete Level – Are they pushing themselves when things get tough?
• Being a Good Teammate – Supporting teammates and showing respect.
• The Willingness to Improve – Do they want to get better every time they’re on the ice?

At the youth level, development isn’t about chasing labels or levels.

It’s about building habits, character, and a mindset that will help players grow both on and off the ice.

For young players hoping to make the next team, remember:

Your reputation is built long before the official tryout begins.

#YouthHockey #HockeyDevelopment #HockeyCoaching #PlayerDevelopment #NXTGENHockey