THE HUMBLE PLAYER There is nothing worse than a 60-point forward that ends the season with a plus/minus of negative 20

Hockey is a team sport that tends to glamorize numerical achievements. The fact remains; there is nothing worse than a 60-point forward that ends the season with a plus/minus of negative 20. Even worse when all he cares about are HIS points.

So let’s go through the main steps to becoming a humble hockey player.

A humble hockey player recognizes his limitations. All players have weaknesses. It’s those shortcomings that are supposed to humble us.

The humble player welcomes criticism and direction from coaches and teammates. If we are humble, it’s easier to comprehend that we have shortcomings in our game, so the humble player welcomes constructive direction. If humble, the need to improve is known, and the player wants coaches to help explain the where and how.

The humble player appreciates the contribution of his teammates. No player can succeed alone.

The humble player shows class in defeat while displaying modesty in victory. When the humble player loses, he understands that the opponents played better, and he congratulates them on their win. And when the humble player wins? There are no crazy celebrations and he realizes that victory is the result of his team’s hard work.

The humble player respects his coach. He doesn’t criticize the coach, he doesn’t display negative body language, and he shows gratitude and does the job the coach asks him to do.

The humble player respects both the on and off ice officials. He doesn’t protest a whistle, even if it was inaccurate.

Boys, I can promise you this; follow the above guidelines and your hockey career will be a lot more enjoyable while you are a joy to your teammates as well.

Another thing to consider, the little ones are watching every move. YOU have the unique opportunity to be a positive influence on THEIR game, and life…don’t blow it.