---
title: A Parent’s Guide to Summer Hockey Training
description: A practical guide for parents to help their child train smartly for hockey over the summer—balancing rest, fun, goals, and budget.
---

[Articles](https://4checkhockey.com/articles)

# [A Parent’s Guide to Summer Hockey Training](https://4checkhockey.com/articles/a-parents-guide-to-summer-hockey-training)

 Written by [Jon Francisco](https://4checkhockey.com/articles/author/jon-francisco) | Jun 11, 2025, 4:19:07 PM

Summer is a golden opportunity for young hockey players to recharge, refocus, and refine their skills. But without a thoughtful plan, it’s easy to either burn out or lose momentum. Here’s how to put together a smart, balanced summer hockey training plan that supports both athletic development and personal well-being—without breaking the bank.

## 1. **Take a Break!**

Before diving into drills and workouts, **schedule time off**. A short break after the season ends is essential for physical recovery and mental rejuvenation. Let your young athlete rest, play other sports, or just be a kid. This downtime helps prevent burnout and sets the stage for a more productive off-season. Even short breaks throughout the summer can be beneficial. 

## 2. **Don’t Forget Your Why**

When motivation dips (and it will), **reconnect with your “why.”** Why do you play hockey? What do you love about it?

A great resource for this is the *Hockey Think Tank Podcast* episode on [“Identifying Your Why”](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hockey-think-tank-podcast/id1441154730) hosted by Topher Scott and Jeff LoVecchio. It’s a powerful reminder for players and parents alike to stay grounded in purpose.

## 3. **Work Backwards from the Season Start**

Start with the end in mind. Look at when tryouts or the next season begins and **work backwards** to map out your training phases. This helps ensure your athlete peaks at the right time and avoids overtraining too early. Writing it out on a calendar is a simple way to visually see what it looks like for both you and your child.

Break the summer into phases:

- **Recovery & Rest (early summer)**
- **Skill Development & Conditioning (mid-summer)**
- **Pre-Season Prep (late summer)**

## 4. **Plan Family Time**

Summer isn’t just about hockey. **Block out time for vacations, family events, and downtime.** A well-rounded athlete is a well-rounded person. Prioritizing family time helps maintain balance and keeps the training plan sustainable.

## 5. **Work Within Your Budget**

Hockey is already an expensive sport. The good news? **You don’t need to spend a fortune to train effectively.** There are creative, cost-effective ways to get quality training:

- Use free online resources and YouTube drills.
- Join community stick-and-puck sessions.
- Organize skill sessions with teammates at local rinks or parks.

## 6. **Identify Areas for Improvement**

Sit down with your athlete and **reflect on the past season**. What skills need work? Is it skating speed, shot accuracy, or hockey IQ? Identifying 2–3 focus areas gives your training purpose and direction.

**Most importantly, your child should have the most input in this process.** When young athletes are involved in setting their own goals, they’re more likely to take ownership of their development. This builds confidence, accountability, and motivation—key ingredients for long-term growth.

## 7. **Find the Right Resources**

Once you know what to work on, **seek out quality training resources**. Some great options include:

- **Jeff Lovecchio’s Instagram (@jefflovecchio)** – A retired pro and elite performance coach who shares tons of free tips and insights.
- **Danny Heath’s Instagram (@danny\_hype)** – A respected coach and founder of Project Hockey, Danny offers excellent on-ice skill development, video breakdowns, and creative drills for players of all levels.
- **[GMBM Hockey Online Training Platform](https://training.gmbm.com/)** – Offers structured, skill-specific programs for all levels.
- **YouTube and free online drills** – A treasure trove of ideas if you’re on a budget.

Mix structured programs with fun, informal practice to keep things fresh and engaging.

## 8. **Make It Fun**

Training doesn’t have to be all sweat and no smiles. Incorporate:

- Mini stick tournaments
- Off-ice games like roller hockey or soccer
- Skill challenges with friends

**Fun fuels consistency.** If your athlete enjoys the process, they’ll stick with it.

### Final Thoughts

A great summer hockey plan isn’t just about getting better—it’s about growing as a person, staying healthy, and having fun. With a little planning, creativity, and heart, your young athlete can head into the next season stronger, smarter, and more inspired than ever.

[View full post](https://4checkhockey.com/articles/a-parents-guide-to-summer-hockey-training)

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