As we embark on this on ice adventure, it is also important to instil off ice skills in our children. Hockey is a very physically demanding sport as you will see as our kids come off the ice drenched in sweat.

As coaches, we will provide adequate water breaks but it is also important to note that Hydration needs to occur before jumping on the ice and and after. If kids come to the ice dehydrated they will struggle on the ice. Furthermore drinking too much water during physical activity can lead to stomach cramps, or bathroom breaks mid practice.

Hockey Canada has published this player checklist. Please go over it with your child and ensure they understand hydration, especially drinking water over sugary drinks which can actually dehydrate instead.

Fluid Checklist
– I drank 1-2 cups upon waking.
– I am not super thirsty throughout the day.
– I drank 1-2 cups before my practice or game.
– My urine is pale in colour before my practice or game.
– I drank enough during my practice or game.
– After my practice or game I drank at lease 1/2 to 1 litre of fluids.
– My urine is pale in colour an hour after practices or games.

See you on the ice!