Want an example of development and when it truly matters? Look at Detroit Red Wings forward, Emmitt Finnie!

Finnie was 5'3 when he was picked in the 4th round of the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft by Kamloops.

He kept growing.

In 2022, he did not have a goal in 48 games for the Blazers.

In a great article on Emmitt from The Athletic, Don Hay is quoted as saying "I think what he embraced was work. He kind off put work over skill, and he just found a way."

In his draft year, he had nine goals and 35 points in 64 games.

The Red Wings grabbed him in the 7th round of the 2023 NHL Draft and the kid kept working, made his debut this season on Detroit's top line.

He's now 8th in rookie scoring in the NHL.

How does this translate?

Your 13 year old does not have to be "ready" for anything right now.

Your 10 year old does not have to be pigeon-holed into a position.

Your 8 year old should only be worried about having fun.

The time will come, if you are lucky enough, when your athlete will have to go "all gas, no breaks".

It is NOT as early as you think!