So you’ve decided to become a hockey player. Congrats! Now let’s find out how much money you are going to make from it.
The first thing you are going to need to do is figure out how much you are going to get paid as a junior hockey player. How much is junior hockey? Well, it’s basically youth hockey (U9-U18) in the United States. There are regional variations to the rules so check with your local minor hockey association for the specific regulations.
The second thing you are going to need to do is determine how much you are going to get paid per game. Many hockey players get paid per week or per month so make sure you factor in the average number of games you play per week. If you are planning on playing more than 20 games per week, then you are going to need to look into getting a locker room (this is especially useful for teams and travel teams that play regularly).
Let’s examine how much money you can expect to make as a junior hockey player based on what you have already done.
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What Should You Expect To Make?
The first step is to determine how much you should be paid based on the costs associated with playing this sport. You should expect to make at least 5 times your school costs. If you are coming from a private school, then you should expect to make at least 10 times your school costs.
Now, you certainly need to put in the hours so that you can get the training from a reputable hockey school. You also need to be prepared to pay for your equipment, which is pretty self-explanatory. Lastly, you need to consider paying for your travel costs to and from practices and games. The cost of gas and parking meters in the city are going to add up quickly.
Let’s examine the costs associated with playing hockey and how much you should be paid for each of them.
Hockey Equipment And Attires
The cost of equipment and attire for junior hockey players is very high. There are skates (ice skates, rollerblades, and in-line skates), helmets, shoulder pads, elbow pads, pants (including pads), and gloves. All of this adds up quickly. If you are a high school player, you will need to have a full gear bag packed and ready to go at all times. The bag should have a designated space for your helmet, gloves, and the like. One major cost that isn’t included in this list is the cost of uniforms. Your minor league team is going to deal with this aspect, but you will need to pay for regular cloths as well.
The rulebook for youth hockey is going to dictate what types of equipment are necessary. If you are a beginner, you will only need a small hockey bag. As time goes by, you are going to need to have a bigger one. The major pieces of equipment above are going to be necessary for any player. Your equipment is going to depend on where you play and will change over time as the sport evolves. One other important note is that you have to check the rules before you start playing. Some equipment is allowed and some equipment isn’t. For example, rollerblades are allowed in some regions and not in others. Check with your local associations or federations for the regulations regarding this issue.
Where Do I Practice?
While you don’t need to have a private practice rink to play hockey, it is highly recommended. Private practices give you the opportunity to work on the things that you aren’t able to do in a game. They also give you the chance to work with a professional coach. This is extremely useful for any player who hopes to make it to the next level. A good private practice facility will have all of the equipment you need (including pads!), strength coaches, and other amenities.
There is also the option for you to practice at a local high school. Many large cities have a school gym that is suitable for hockey. If you practice at a high school, then transportation costs are going to be a major issue. Working out at a gym doesn’t have the same appeal as working out at a private practice facility.
Who Is My Coach?
If you are a junior hockey player, you are going to need a coach. A good coach can make all of the difference in your ability to succeed. They can teach you the fundamentals of the game and how to interact with your teammates. A good coach can also give you advice on how to improve your game and can help you prepare for the next level.
Finding a good coach isn’t difficult. Simply contact your local minor hockey association and ask them to recommend a coach who is both certified and experienced in teaching children and teens. Your association will be able to help you find the right person for the job.
How Much Time Do I Put In?
This one is really difficult to estimate because it depends on how fast you want to succeed. If you are planning on playing at the next level, then you are going to have to dedicate a lot of time to practice. How much time do you need to practice? It depends on you and how prepared you want to be when you arrive at the next level. If you are not ready, then you can expect to struggle and maybe even lose a game or two before you figure it out.
There are certain tasks you are going to need to complete. You are going to need to set aside time for strength training, working on your skating, and setting up meets with other hockey players. You will also need to be prepared to travel to and from practices and games. Make sure you have all of this in mind before you set your alarm clock for 4:00 am so you can get the most out of your practice session.
How Do I Deal With The Media?
If you are a hockey player, you are going to be in the media all of the time. Good luck! You are going to be interviewed by different people, have your picture taken for different publications, and use your social media platforms to interact with fans and other players.
Deciding how to deal with the media can be tricky, especially if you are a teenager. Some players prefer to stay off social media while others embrace the opportunity to engage with fans and other players. There are, however, a few things you can do: Be confident but don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Be humble but don’t be a doormat. Be careful about what you say because once you are published, you can’t take it back. Keep a level head and remember what you are there for.
Am I Ready?
The biggest question you need to ask yourself is: Am I ready? Are you sure about committing to a sport so soon? Are you sure that you haven’t wasted your time playing other sports? Hockey is a lot of work and requires a lot of patience, but the rewards are incredible. Play to your strengths! If you are a fast reader and have a good handle on mathematics, then you can prepare for the SATs and apply to any college or university of your choice. Don’t be afraid to explore all of your options.
If you are sure that hockey is for you, then go for it! Just make sure you put in the work. If you aren’t sure, then maybe try out another sport. There is a lot to know about hockey, and the sooner you figure it out, the sooner you will be on your way to the pros.