I don't have kids yet. But in a unique way, I do have many. Hundreds of girls in our gymnastic classes at NFF Gymnastics and the athletes that I mentor as a performance coach at KM Elite Performance. I resonate with the sentiments of every parent. I cheer for each athlete, living the game side by side, rejoicing in their triumphs, and feeling the weight of their setbacks.
Yet, there's a dimension beyond the glaring numbers on the scoreboard. Delving deeper reveals the intricate dance of strategy, skill, and spirit. As a parent, understanding this depth can help you guide your child's athletic journey more effectively.
The Unseen Depths of a U13 Ice Hockey Match
One athlete I closely mentor recently played in a U13-Elite Level Ice Hockey match. Although illness kept me from the rink, I was glued to the live stream. Our prior discussions weren’t centered on just scoring; they were about holistic growth and in-game focus. On the surface, his performance seemed standard, with his team losing 4:7 and him not registering any points. But let's delve deeper.
He showcased stellar defensive skills, often being the last man in defense, a notable feat for someone who plays Center. He captained his line with authority. His ability to pressurize opponents was evident, drawing 5 out of 8 penalties against the opposing team. However, due to Switzerland's U13 rules, these penalties didn't result in power plays.
Here are some highlights from my notes during our post-game discussion:
Score and Penalties - Athletes Team vs. Opposing Team
01:48 - 1:0 - Athletes Team
05:23 - 2:0 - Athletes Team
06:30 - 2:0 - 2min Penalty against Opposing Team
06:52 - 2:1 - Opposing Team (Shorthanded but not really)
09:25 - 2:1 - 2min Penalty against Opposing Team
10:23 - 2:2 - Opposing Team (Shorthanded but not really)
As you see, the game tying goals in the first period came on a Power Play situation by my Athletes Team. I do not have any empirical Data for what usually happens in a scenario like this in Junior Leagues. But lets take the Statistics of the Swiss National League, the Pro League here in Switzerland, the semi-pro Swiss League and the highest Amateur Ligue - i am also pretty sure this data is more or less comparable to any other professional Ice Hockey League in the world.
Goals Against per Game on Power Play
| National League | Swiss League | MyHockey League |
Best | 0.02 | 0.02 | 0.03 |
Worst | 0.13 | 0.18 | 0.19 |
Average | 0.06 | 0.09 | 0.06 |
Taking those statistics into account, the score in a more advanced Level would still be at the worst case: 2:1 for the Athletes Team. Or better said - if you know this young guys, they master their sport at this level pretty good and each of this players can score, especially with a man advantage. So let's make it 3:1 just for us as parent's who compare the game to a pro Level, where we want our kids to shine.
I don't want to dig deeper into the rest of the game by now, but do your own math. Adding 6 minor Penalties to the opposing Team and only 1 to my Athletes Team.
Here are the statistics for Power Play efficiency.
| National League | Swiss League | MyHockey League |
Best | 21.76% | 26.03% | 25.2% |
Worst | 14.74% | 14.19% | 11.11% |
Average | 18.14% | 21.48% | 17.7% |
Drawing from all these professional Swiss league data, a different story emerges if one considers how the game might have played out at a higher level.
Based on a singular math basis this makes 1.2 goals at an average Power Play conversion rate at 20% effectiviness. So the score in our case, would be - in a statistical world - at least 4:1.
The Importance of Understanding for Parents
"It's more than just the score; it's about recognizing the profound impact of each player's contributions"
1. Different Rules at Different Levels: As showcased, rules can diverge between youth levels and professional encounters. To truly appreciate an athlete's performance, familiarize yourself with these distinctions.
2. Seeing the Bigger Picture: While scores are evident markers, recognizing the athlete's roles and nuanced contributions provides a more holistic understanding. The U13 game is a testament to the importance of evaluating beyond the scoreboard.
3. Remember, It’s Their Journey: Athletes need unwavering support and encouragement. As parents, recognizing it's their unique journey is pivotal.
Tips for Parents
1. Educate Yourself: Grasp the rules, tactics, and intricacies of your child's sport.
2. Open Communication: Foster a dialogue with the coach, understanding their insights on your child's progression.
3. Support Beyond Scores: Revel in the minor victories, be it mastering a new skill or executing a strategic play, rather than just focusing on scores.
4. Avoid Pressure: Let your child revel in the sport, allowing them the freedom to err. These mistakes pave their learning journey.
The Integral Role of a Coach
A well-informed coach comprehends the developmental trajectories of young athletes. Their insights extend beyond mere stats, offering a nuanced understanding of an athlete’s progress. Aligning with such a coach ensures your child receives holistic training, nurturing both their physical and mental prowess.
Conclusion: Fostering a Holistic Sports Environment
The world of youth sports is intricate. By comprehending its rules, acknowledging the broader perspective, and collaborating with a seasoned coach, parents can create a nurturing environment for their budding athletes.
Remember, it’s about more than the immediate score; it's the long-term evolution of your child in the sport they cherish.
Thanks for reading. Hope it gave you some insights.
Let us know what you want to know more, you can contact us over our Social Media Profile at Instagram
or write us an email
Comments