Why Skipping Summer Tournaments Might Be the Best Move

As summer rolls in, many families in the youth hockey world feel the pressure to keep their kids on the ice through a packed schedule of tournaments. While the drive to improve and compete is admirable, the truth is: young hockey players don’t need to be playing in tournaments all summer. In fact, stepping back from the constant travel and competition can be one of the best things for their development—and your family’s well-being. Heck, if you've already committed and want to back out, never hurts to ask. I'm sure those teams can find someone else to take your child's place. Trust me, it will be ok.

Here’s why:

1. It’s Expensive—And Often Not Worth It

Summer tournaments can cost thousands of dollars when you factor in registration fees, travel, hotels, meals, and time off work. For most families, that’s a significant investment. And for what return? At younger ages, the benefits rarely justify the cost. The games are often unstructured, the competition inconsistent, and the coaching minimal.

That money could be better spent on targeted training, local development programs, or even saved for future opportunities like elite camps or equipment upgrades. Financially and developmentally, the return on investment just isn’t there for most kids under 14.

2. Scouts Aren’t Watching—Yet

There’s a common myth that summer tournaments are a hotbed for scouts. In reality, most scouts don’t start seriously evaluating players until they’re 14, 15, or 16 years old—and even then, they’re more likely to attend sanctioned events during the regular season.

If your child is younger than that, the focus should be on skill development, not exposure. Playing in front of empty stands in a different city every weekend won’t move the needle on their hockey future. What will? Becoming a better skater, puck handler, and decision-maker—things that are best developed in a structured, focused environment.

3. You Get More Value Training Locally

Instead of spending time and money on travel, players can get more focused, individualized training by staying close to home. Whether it’s working with a skills coach, strength and conditioning, or just getting extra ice time, local training offers better development per dollar—and hour—spent.

Local programs also allow for consistency. Players can build relationships with coaches who understand their needs and track their progress over time. Plus, staying local means more time for rest, recovery, and balance—key ingredients in long-term athletic success.

4. Multi-Sport Athletes Are Better Athletes

Summer is the perfect time for kids to play other sports—soccer, baseball, lacrosse, swimming, or even just unstructured outdoor play. Studies consistently show that multi-sport athletes develop better overall athleticism, avoid burnout, and are less prone to overuse injuries.

Cross-training builds coordination, agility, and mental flexibility. It also keeps kids mentally fresh and engaged. When they return to hockey in the fall, they often do so with renewed energy, sharper instincts, and a broader athletic foundation.

5. More Time for Family and Fun

Let’s not forget: they’re kids. Summer should include time for family vacations, barbecues, beach days, and just being a kid. These moments are just as important as any game-winning goal. Childhood memories aren’t made in hotel lobbies or rink parking lots—they’re made around campfires, on road trips, and during lazy afternoons with friends.

And for parents, fewer weekends on the road means more time to relax and reconnect as a family. Hockey is a big part of your life—but it shouldn’t be the only part.

6. Avoiding Burnout and Injury

Year-round competition increases the risk of mental burnout and physical injury. Young bodies need rest, and young minds need variety. Overuse injuries—especially to knees, hips, and shoulders—are increasingly common in youth hockey players who don’t take time off.

A break from the grind of tournaments can help players return to the game in the fall with renewed energy and passion. Rest isn’t a setback—it’s a strategy.

7. Long-Term Development Over Short-Term Wins

The best players aren’t the ones who peak at 10 or 12—they’re the ones who develop steadily over time, with a strong foundation of skills, athleticism, and love for the game. Summer should be about building that foundation, not chasing medals.

Short-term wins in summer tournaments might feel good in the moment, but they don’t always translate to long-term success. What matters more is whether your child is improving, enjoying the game, and staying healthy.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing wrong with playing in a tournament or two if your child enjoys it and it fits your family’s schedule. But don’t feel like you’re falling behind if you choose a different path. In fact, by focusing on smart training, rest, and balance, you might just be giving your young athlete the best chance to succeed—not just in hockey, but in life.