Our Kids Play Hockey Our Girls Play Hockey: The Guilt of Missing Hockey: What Players and Parents Need to Hear
đź’ Do you ever feel guilty for missing hockey?
Missing a practice for school. Saying no to a tournament. Choosing family time, another sport, or just a much-needed break. If that knot in your stomach feels familiar, this episode is for you.
In this powerful conversation, Lee Elias and Hayley Scamurra tackle a topic that players, parents, and even coaches experience — but rarely talk about out loud: the guilt of not always being at hockey.
From youth hockey pressures to elite-level perspective, Lee and Hayley unpack why this guilt exists, where it comes from, and how it can quietly lead to burnout if left unchecked. They also share practical advice for players and parents on how to communicate with coaches, recognize signs of overload, and create healthier expectations around commitment and balance.
✨ In this episode, we cover:
- Why missing hockey doesn’t mean you care less
- The difference between commitment and burnout
- How family, school, and other interests actually help development
- What healthy communication with coaches really looks like
- Signs your player may need rest — physically and mentally
- Why guilt shouldn’t be the driver in youth sports decisions
This episode is a must-listen for families navigating packed schedules, emotional pressure, and the belief that hockey must always come first. Because sometimes, the healthiest choice is stepping away — and that’s okay.
🎧 Listen in, reflect, and let us know what resonated with you.
đź“– Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Is It Okay to Miss Hockey? Navigating Guilt, Balance, and Burnout in Girls Hockey
đź“© Have a topic you want us to tackle? Email us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com
or click the link in the show notes to submit your question.
#OurGirlsPlayHockey #YouthHockey #HockeyParents #GirlsHockey #SportsParenting #AthleteWellbeing #HockeyLife #AvoidBurnout
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