Getting Mentally Focused for the Upcoming Hockey Season

Kevin Geist
6 days ago
2 min read

The start of a new hockey season is always exciting—fresh opportunities, new teammates, and a chance to take your game to the next level. But being prepared isn’t just about sharpening your skates or improving your shot. Success on the ice also depends on how

well you prepare mentally.

Here are some ways youth hockey players can focus and get their minds ready for the

season ahead:

1. Set Clear Goals

Before stepping back on the ice, take time to think about what you want to achieve this season.

Do you want to improve your skating speed?
Become more confident with the puck?
Step up as a leader in the locker room?

Write your goals down. Clear, realistic goals give you direction and something to stay motivated about when practices get tough.

2. Build a Positive Mindset

Every season comes with challenges—bad games, tough opponents, or moments when confidence dips. Learning to stay positive and bounce back is key. Remind yourself: mistakes are part of the game, and each one is a chance to learn.

A good practice is to create a short pre-game mantra like: “Play fast, play smart, have fun.” Repeating it helps you focus on what matters instead of worrying about mistakes.

3. Visualize Your Success

Visualization is a powerful tool used by pro athletes. Spend a few minutes each night imagining yourself skating hard, making smart plays, or scoring goals. Picture the sounds of the rink, the speed of the play, and the feeling of confidence. The more vividly you visualize, the more prepared your brain will be when the season starts.

4. Develop a Routine

Consistency brings comfort and confidence. Establish a simple routine before practices and games—whether it’s stretching a certain way, listening to a pump-up playlist, or doing a few off-ice stickhandling reps. A routine gets your mind and body locked in.

5. Manage Stress and Stay Balanced

School, friends, and hockey can all pile up. Learn how to manage stress by:

Getting plenty of sleep
Eating healthy foods
Taking time away from hockey to recharge mentally

A balanced life off the ice leads to better focus and performance on it.

6. Embrace Teamwork and Communication

Hockey is a team sport—success comes from working together. This season, challenge yourself to communicate more on the ice, support teammates, and stay positive on the bench. Good teammates help create a winning culture.

Final Thought

The upcoming season is a blank slate filled with opportunity. By setting goals, staying positive, and preparing your mind as well as your body, you’ll be ready to make the most of every practice and every shift.

So lace up, lock in, and get ready—this is your season to grow, compete, and love the game of hockey more than ever.