Get Your Hockey Tournament Goody Bag Ready: What to Include?

Hockey tournaments are an exciting time for players, coaches, and fans. Along with the thrill of the game, tournament goody bags are a special treat for players. Creating the perfect goody bag can be a daunting task, but with a little planning, it can be a breeze. In this article, we will go over what to include in a hockey tournament goody bag to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for all players.

The right essentials can make a big difference in a hockey tournament, so it is crucial to pack everything you need. From the essential gear to snacks and drinks, personal care items, and fun accessories, we’ve got you covered. In addition, we will also share some practical tips to help you create the perfect goody bag.

Whether you are a seasoned tournament organizer or a first-time coach, this article will provide you with all the necessary information to make your hockey tournament goody bag a hit. So, get ready to make your players’ day and give them a goody bag they will never forget!

Read on to find out what to include in a hockey tournament goody bag and how to make sure your players have the best possible experience during the tournament.

The Essential Gear:

When it comes to a hockey tournament, there is certain gear that every player needs to have. First and foremost, players need to bring their skates – without them, they won’t be able to take to the ice! Along with the skates, players also need to bring their hockey stick. It’s always a good idea to pack an extra stick, just in case one breaks during the tournament.

Another essential piece of gear is protective equipment. This includes a helmet, shoulder pads, elbow pads, gloves, and shin guards. Without this gear, players run the risk of getting seriously injured. It’s important to make sure that all of the protective gear fits properly and is in good condition.

In addition to the protective gear, players should also bring comfortable clothing to wear off the ice. A comfortable hoodie and sweatpants can help players relax and stay warm between games. A comfortable pair of running shoes can also come in handy for walking around the tournament venue or warming up before games.

Finally, players should bring a bag to carry all of their gear. A hockey bag is a great option, as it’s designed specifically to hold all of the necessary equipment. Make sure the bag is large enough to hold everything and has comfortable straps for easy carrying.

Having all of this essential gear on hand will ensure that players are ready to take to the ice and play their best during the tournament.

Hockey Stick

1. Size: One of the most important things to consider when choosing a hockey stick is the size. Make sure you choose a stick that is the right size for your height and weight. A stick that is too long or too short can affect your gameplay.

2. Flexibility: The flexibility of the hockey stick is also an important factor to consider. A stiffer stick is better for players who take more slap shots, while a more flexible stick is better for players who take more wrist shots.

3. Material: Hockey sticks can be made of different materials, such as wood, composite, or carbon fiber. Each material has its own pros and cons, so it’s important to choose one that suits your style of play.

Choosing the right hockey stick can make a big difference in your gameplay. Make sure you take the time to consider the size, flexibility, and material of the stick before making your purchase.

Snacks and Drinks:

Playing hockey can be tiring, so it’s essential to keep your energy levels up during the tournament. Snacks are a great way to do this. Consider including a mix of sweet and savory snacks, such as granola bars, trail mix, and beef jerky. These snacks are easy to eat on the go and can provide a quick boost of energy.

It’s also important to stay hydrated throughout the tournament, so don’t forget to pack plenty of drinks. Water is the best option, but you can also include sports drinks for electrolyte replacement. Avoid sugary drinks like soda, which can cause a crash in energy levels.

If you’re looking for something a little different, consider including coffee or tea packets for a quick caffeine boost. Just make sure to also include hot water or a portable kettle if you plan to offer these options.

Another option for a refreshing drink is to include flavored water packets. These are a great way to add some flavor to your water without adding any sugar or calories. They come in a variety of flavors, so you’re sure to find something that everyone will enjoy.

Finally, don’t forget to pack some gum or mints. These can help freshen your breath and keep you feeling alert and focused during the tournament.

Energy Bars or Trail Mix

If you need a quick boost of energy during the game, energy bars or trail mix can provide a quick and convenient solution. These snacks are portable and easy to eat on the go, making them a great choice for busy hockey players.

Energy bars are a popular choice among athletes because they are often packed with protein, carbohydrates, and other essential nutrients. Look for bars that are low in sugar and high in fiber to keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Trail mix is another great snack option for hockey players. It typically contains a mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, providing a balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. Look for trail mix that is low in added sugars and salt.

Personal Care Items:

Towels: Hockey is a high-intensity sport, and players sweat a lot during the game. Towels are essential to wipe off sweat during breaks or after the game.

First aid kit: Accidents can happen on the ice, and a first aid kit is a must-have item in any hockey tournament goody bag. It should contain items such as bandages, antiseptic, and pain relief medication.

Sunscreen: Playing outdoor hockey tournaments under the sun can lead to sunburns and skin damage. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen to protect your skin.

Hand sanitizer: Players shake hands and come into close contact with each other during the game, which can spread germs. Keep hand sanitizer in your goody bag to help reduce the risk of infection.

Lip balm: Cold weather and dry indoor air can cause chapped lips. Keep a lip balm in your goody bag to keep your lips moisturized and healthy.

First-Aid Kit

A first-aid kit is an essential item to include in your hockey tournament goody bag. Accidents can happen on the ice, so it’s important to be prepared. Your kit should include adhesive bandages, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, and medical tape.

For more serious injuries, include a cold compress, elastic bandages, and a pair of scissors. It’s also a good idea to pack some over-the-counter pain medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Be sure to consult with a doctor or medical professional before taking any medication.

Don’t forget to include any necessary medical supplies for specific conditions such as inhalers or epinephrine auto-injectors for allergies. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

Sunscreen and Bug Spray

When playing hockey outdoors, you’ll likely be exposed to the sun’s harmful rays and pesky insects. Protect yourself by bringing sunscreen and bug spray. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it liberally and reapply every two hours or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming.

For bug spray, choose one that contains DEET or picaridin as the active ingredient. Apply it to your skin and clothing before heading out to the rink to ward off mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects. Avoid spraying it near your face or mouth and wash your hands after applying.

Both sunscreen and bug spray come in small travel-sized bottles, making them easy to pack in your goody bag. Just be sure to check the rules of the tournament to make sure you’re allowed to bring them in.

Fun Accessories:

Team Colors: Show off your team spirit with colored items. Wristbands, headbands, and even temporary tattoos can add a touch of fun to your goody bag.

Mini Sticks: Miniature hockey sticks are a great addition to any goody bag. They can be used for indoor games, backyard games, or even for display.

Trading Cards: Hockey trading cards are a timeless classic. Collect them, trade them, and even use them to play a game of chance.

Noise Makers: Cheer on your team with fun noise makers like horns, cowbells, and thundersticks. They add excitement to the game and are a fun addition to any goody bag.

With these fun accessories, your goody bag is sure to be a hit with players and fans alike.

Team Spirit Items

If you want to show your support for your team, consider packing some team spirit items in your goody bag. Here are a few ideas:

• Noisemakers: Cowbells, clappers, or air horns are a great way to show your team spirit and help cheer on your team.
• Face Paint: Use face paint to paint your team’s colors or logo on your face.
• Spirit Wear: Wear clothing or accessories that show off your team’s colors or logo, such as hats, scarves, or t-shirts.

Don’t forget that team spirit is all about having fun and supporting your teammates. So, even if your team doesn’t win every game, you can still show your support and enjoy the tournament!

Mini Hockey Games or Puzzles

If you have some extra space in your bag, consider bringing some mini hockey games or puzzles to play during downtime. This is a great way to keep yourself and your teammates entertained and focused on the game. Look for games like mini air hockey or desktop hockey, or try a small puzzle that you can work on during breaks.

Playing mini hockey games or doing puzzles can also help improve your hand-eye coordination and keep your mind sharp, which can be useful for performing well on the ice. Plus, it’s just a fun way to pass the time and bond with your teammates off the ice.

Some mini hockey games and puzzles are even designed specifically for hockey players, featuring images of hockey equipment and players. These can be a great way to show off your team spirit and love of the game.

Tournament Information:

Registration: Teams must register by the deadline to participate. Late registrations will not be accepted. Make sure to provide accurate contact information and complete all required forms.

Schedule: A schedule of games and activities will be provided to all teams prior to the tournament. Teams should arrive at least 30 minutes before their scheduled games. It’s important to be on time to ensure the tournament runs smoothly.

Rules: All teams are expected to abide by the rules and regulations of the tournament. Any violations may result in disqualification. Familiarize yourself with the rules before the tournament to avoid any misunderstandings.

Schedule of Games

If you’re wondering when your favorite teams will be playing, check out the schedule below. All times are listed in Eastern Standard Time:

Date	Time	Teams
Friday, April 1st	6:00pm	New York Rangers vs. Toronto Maple Leafs
Saturday, April 2nd	1:00pm	Boston Bruins vs. Montreal Canadiens
Sunday, April 3rd	4:00pm	Chicago Blackhawks vs. Detroit Red Wings

Please note that game times are subject to change. Check back here for updates.

Practical Tips:

Dress in layers: Weather conditions can change quickly, especially in outdoor tournaments. Wearing layers allows you to adjust your clothing based on the temperature and weather conditions throughout the day.

Stay hydrated: It’s important to drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration during the tournament. Bring a refillable water bottle and drink regularly throughout the day.

Plan your meals: Plan your meals and snacks ahead of time to ensure you have enough energy to sustain you throughout the day. Consider packing healthy snacks like energy bars or trail mix to keep you fueled.

Pack a Water Bottle

Stay Hydrated: Staying hydrated is important, especially during a tournament. Pack a refillable water bottle and make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Avoid Waste: Packing a reusable water bottle also helps reduce waste. Look for bottles made from eco-friendly materials like stainless steel or glass.

Bring Electrolytes: In addition to water, consider bringing drinks that contain electrolytes. These can help replenish the minerals lost through sweat during intense physical activity.

Bring Cash for Concessions

If you’re planning on buying snacks or drinks at the tournament, make sure to bring cash. Most concessions stands do not accept credit or debit cards, and there may not be an ATM available on-site.

It’s also a good idea to bring smaller bills and change to make transactions easier and quicker. This will help avoid long lines and frustration for both you and the concession staff.

Remember that concession stands at tournaments can get busy, especially during peak hours, so be patient and polite while waiting in line. And, if possible, try to support the local vendors and boosters who are operating the concession stands.

Label Your Gear with Your Name

One of the easiest ways to avoid losing or misplacing your hockey gear is to label everything with your name. This includes your sticks, gloves, skates, helmet, and bags. Use a permanent marker or label maker to write your name clearly on each piece of equipment.

Labeling your gear not only helps you keep track of your belongings, but it also helps others identify your items in case they accidentally pick them up. Plus, if your gear gets lost or stolen, it will be easier for someone to return it to you if it’s clearly labeled.

Make sure to check your gear regularly to make sure the labels are still visible and haven’t worn off. If they have, be sure to re-label your gear before your next game or practice.

Frequently Asked Questions