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 [...]
Youth hockey tournaments are an exciting and essential part of a young hockey player's development. They provide invaluable opportunities for growth, competition, camaraderie, and fun. As a team manager, one of your crucial responsibilities is choosing the right tournaments for your youth hockey team. This decision involves various factors that can significantly impact your players' [...]
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 [...]
Congratulations on becoming a first-year hockey team manager! Managing a hockey team can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it can also be overwhelming if you don't have a plan in place. Here are some tips to help you survive your first year as a hockey team manager: 1. Establish communication channels: It's important to [...]
Hey, youth hockey players! Have you ever wondered what competition is all about when you’re playing in a tournament? It’s not just about winning or losing. There's so much more to your tournament experience! Let’s take a closer look at what competition really means and how it can help you become a better player and [...]
Planning to attend one of our exciting Showdown Tournaments in the Washington DC area? We know that there’s more to your trip than just the games! The nation’s capital is filled with family-friendly activities and sights that make for an unforgettable experience. Here’s our guide to some of the best things to do with your [...]
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 [...]
Ever wondered what goes into organizing one of the top youth hockey tournaments in the country? Join us as we go behind the scenes with Brian and Whitney, the dynamic duo who make it all happen. With 34 years of experience under their belts, Brian and Whitney have created a legacy in the world of [...]
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 [...]
