Youth hockey is about more than wins and goals—it’s about experiences, growth, and community. As a parent, your role is more influential than you may realize. You set the tone for your child’s relationship with the game. Whether you’re cheering in the stands or packing post-game snacks, here are 10 simple do’s and don’ts that [...]
What to Do When Your Team Doesn’t Win the Hockey Tournament Not winning a tournament can feel disappointing, but it’s part of the game — and a valuable learning experience. In youth hockey, success isn’t just measured by the scoreboard but by how you respond to setbacks and grow from them. Handling a loss with [...]
In the whirlwind of holiday chaos and a busy hockey schedule, where the jingle of bells competes with the hustle and bustle of year-end festivities and you are racing to practices, team parties and hockey tournaments, Nelsa Roberto's "My Hockey Mom Prayer" emerges as a reminder to take a deep breath and prepare for every [...]
Youth hockey referees are such an important part of the game, ensuring that players abide by the rules and regulations while ensuring that the game is played safely. However, being a youth hockey referee is not an easy job. They face a lot of challenges, and we must understand and empathize with them. Below, we [...]
Hockey is more than just a game... it's a way of life and passion that can last a lifetime. It's a sport that fosters camaraderie, teaches valuable life lessons, and builds character. As young athletes step onto the ice, they embark on a journey that extends beyond scoring goals and making saves. It's a journey [...]
The format of half-ice tournament games and small-area ice experiences offers many benefits that contribute to the developmen and enjoyment of youth hockey players and growth of the sport. At Showdown Tournaments, we’ve had the pleasure of hosting over eighty 8U hockey teams during the 2023-24 youth hockey tournament season. For years, we have proudly [...]
It's a coming of age in youth hockey when you carry your hockey bag and tie your hockey skates. As a hockey parent, watching your child grow and develop on and off the ice is a rewarding experience. Hockey isn't just about scoring goals and making saves; it's also about fostering independence and responsibility. A [...]
In the youth hockey world, there's a special breed of heroes: Hockey Moms. These incredible individuals embody dedication, passion, and support for their children's journey to the ice. As a hockey mom, you're not just a spectator; you're the heartbeat of your child's hockey experience – their biggest fan, mentor, and driving force. Whether you [...]
Twas the night before the Showdown, in Nashville's embrace, Where country and hockey, find their place. Seventy teams, with youthful delight, From sixteen states, gathered under the night. In Smashville they gather, where guitars heartily strum, In anticipation of the 33rd Country & Western Tournament to come. With skates on their feet and dreams [...]
In the quiet of night, before the puck takes flight, In the realm of dreams, where hopes ignite, The 15th Capital Showdown waits in sight, With fervor, passion, and boundless might. 84 teams, young players in their stride, Through the houses and hotels, whispers roam, Across the frozen rinks, where dreams find a [...]
