Is Your Child Coachable? Why It’s Critical for Youth Hockey Success
- Nebraska Elite
- Jan 27
- 4 min read
Coachability is a cornerstone trait for youth hockey players aspiring to thrive in their sport and build a solid foundation for success in Nebraska’s growing hockey scene. How far does your child want to go in their hockey career? Whether they’re dreaming of lifting the Stanley Cup or just excited to graduate from Mites to Squirts, the question remains: what tools do they need to succeed?
Sure, their edge work is solid, their shots are on point, and their flow? Totally enviable. But here’s the real game-changer: how well does your child take instruction? In other words, is your child coachable?
Why Coachability Matters in Youth Hockey
Coachability is more than just taking instruction—it’s about how your child adapts, learns, and grows under new guidance. And as they advance, their ability to stay coachable will play a huge role in their success.
As a parent, you want to see your young athlete grow and thrive in their sport. But here's the thing—progress often means leaving behind familiar teammates and coaches. (Put the tissues down, you can still have hockey meet-ups with your favorite hockey moms or dads. Think of those off-ice dryland sessions you can bond over!)
They may have been a star under their first coach—their best friend’s dad who ran Mites practices like a pro—but what happens when they join a new team? Or move to a different program? Or if their coach moves on? These transitions are inevitable, and the key to thriving through them is simple: being coachable.
If you’re wondering whether your child is coachable—or how to help them become more so—we’ve got you covered. Here are some top tips and resources to guide you through fostering this critical trait. And hey, we’ll even talk about what to do if your kid’s coachability needs a little extra work.
8 Signs Your Child is Coachable (source: Minnesota Hockey)
Coaches love working with kids who are coachable—it makes their job easier and the team stronger. But how can you tell if your child has this critical trait? Here are eight signs of coachable kids, as well as tips for identifying where your child excels and where they might need support.
Eye Contact: Coachable kids pay attention. When a coach is speaking or drawing up drills, they look at the coach rather than getting distracted by the crowd or their gear. This shows they are engaged and focused on understanding what’s being taught.
Tip: For younger kids, small physical cues—like putting their hands on their knees—can help them stay attentive.
Front and Center: The kids who stand right in front during instructions show that they care about getting the details right. This behavior reflects purpose and dedication, traits that help them absorb what’s needed to succeed.
Sitting Still: Players who sit calmly during pre-game or post-game talks without fidgeting show they’re taking the moment seriously.
Tip: For younger children, keep in mind that attention spans are short, so it is also up to their coach to keep messages concise.
Asking Questions: Coachable kids aren’t afraid to ask questions. If they don’t understand a drill or situation, they will ask for clarification! This shows engagement and encourages other players to see questions as a tool for growth.
Seeking Advice: Players who approach their coach for advice reflect self-awareness and a genuine desire to improve, demonstrating a proactive attitude toward learning and personal growth. Coaches value this initiative just as much as parents do!
Leadership: Coachable kids often lead by example, whether it’s correcting a teammate in a constructive way or taking the lead in small tasks like organizing equipment. These players show they are invested in the team’s success and willing to go the extra mile.
Being a Good Teammate: Team-first players are often the most coachable because they understand that the group’s achievements matter more than individual recognition. Team-first players are those who celebrate others’ successes, share encouragement, and act unselfishly.
Being Early and Prepared: Preparedness is a cornerstone of coachability. I know this can be wildly dependent on the parents, so bear with me on this one. Showing up early, having all their gear, and being ready to go without needing constant reminders are signs of responsibility and respect for their coach and team.
How to Foster Coachability in Your Young Athlete
While identifying coachable traits is important, building and nurturing them is the next step. If you notice your child has areas for improvement, here are five practical ways to help:
Cultivate a Love for Learning by encouraging your child to see every practice, game, and critique as a chance to grow. You can help them to understand that there’s always room to improve, no matter how skilled they become. And reinforcing the idea that curiosity and a willingness to learn will not only make them better athletes but can also open doors in sports and beyond.
Redefine Success. Sure, winning is exciting, but it shouldn’t be the only goal. Show your young athlete that personal and team growth is just as valuable as what is on the scoreboard. Athletes who focus on improvement become more open to trying new things and stepping outside their comfort zone, which are essential traits for long-term success and coachability.
Emphasize the Importance of Feedback: Listening is the foundation of being coachable. Help your child understand that feedback, whether it’s from their coach, teammates, or even setbacks, is a valuable tool for getting better. Teach them to accept constructive criticism as an opportunity rather than a negative.
Encourage Adaptability: Sports are full of challenges—playing new positions, learning new strategies, or adapting to different coaching styles. Remind your child that being flexible in their approach is key to their development as a team player. Celebrate their efforts to adjust and take on new challenges, as these experiences help build resilience and coachability.
Teach Resilience in the Face of Failure: Every athlete faces setbacks, but what matters most is how they handle them. Help your child view mistakes as learning opportunities rather than defining moments. By reflecting on what went wrong and focusing on how to improve, they’ll grow stronger and more receptive to coaching during tough times.
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