The ol’ question in youth sports: “What’s the Return on Investment (ROI)?”
Before we tackle this subject, understand ROI here is a reference—not a promise that you’ll “get paid back.” Your true ROI should be positive hockey experiences, life lessons, friendships, and memories. If you think youth sports will pay for college, put your money in an interest-bearing account, you’ll cover Little Johnny’s scholarship multiple times before he turns 18.
Youth hockey is one of the most rewarding, and expensive, sports for families. Between team fees, equipment, and travel, adding private lessons can feel like a big decision. So, are they worth it?
The honest answer: it depends on your child’s goals, age, and motivation. Let’s break it down before you spend your hard-earned money.
Private lessons offer something team practices rarely provide: personalized attention. Here’s why that matters:
In a team setting, coaches divide time among 15–20 players. Private lessons allow laser-focused instruction on your child’s unique needs, whether it’s skating stride, stickhandling, or shooting mechanics.
Team practices often prioritize systems and game play. Private sessions emphasize fundamentals like edge work, puck control, and body positioning, skills that separate good players from great ones.
Kids often feel more comfortable asking questions and trying new techniques in a one-on-one setting. This confidence can translate into better game performance.
If your child is aiming to accelerate development or prepare for higher-level hockey, private lessons can help them stand out.
Before you commit, weigh these factors:
Cost vs. Frequency
Private lessons typically range from $50–$150 per hour. Occasional sessions for targeted skills may be more cost-effective than weekly lessons. Overdoing it can drain your budget without proportional improvement.
Age & Commitment
For younger players (under 10), group clinics or small-area games often provide similar benefits at a lower cost. Private lessons work best when the player is motivated, not when parents are pushing.
Coach Quality (This is Huge!)
A great player doesn’t always make a great coach. Look for instructors with proven teaching ability and a track record of developing youth players.
Balance
Overloading on private lessons can lead to burnout. Kids need fun, creativity, and unstructured ice time to stay passionate about the game.
| Factor | Private Lessons | Team Clinics |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $50–$150/hr | $20–$50/session |
| Skill Impact | High for targeted skills | Moderate; good for game situations |
| Long-Term Benefit | Strong if player is motivated | Builds hockey IQ and teamwork |
| Risk | Expensive; diminishing returns | Less individualized attention |
Bottom Line:
Private lessons can be a great investment, but only when used strategically. Focus on targeted skills, ensure your child is motivated, and balance lessons with team play and fun. For many families, occasional private sessions combined with clinics and off-ice work offer the best return on investment.
In the end, listen to your child. If they don’t want to do it, don’t like the coach, or don’t practice the skills on their own, step in and make a change. Don’t force it, development should be enjoyable.