How Much Is To Much?

Is there such a thing as doing to much of a single sport? It’s an interesting question, that many coaches and parents debate about. For those of you that need a little more detail as to the question, what I’m talking about is the debate about a youngster playing to much of one sport.

Often times now a days, you will see a kid playing a single sport year round. In hockey you have the regular season, then you move straight into spring hockey, and now you even have summer hockey. In between all that, the kids are going to hockey camps, and let’s not forget the private trainers:) This is alot for sure.

When I listen to coaches and parents speak about this topic, I hear some say that you gotta play multiple sports. It’s good for developing overall athleticism. I also hear others say that EVERYONE else is playing year round so we have to do the same to keep up with the pack. Both have some truth to them, but here’s my ten cents on this.

One of the big things that I talk about in my coaching of clients, is the importance of “balance”. Having a healthy balance in your life is crucial, because I believe that if you’re in a healthy levelled state, so much good will follow. Your practices will be more productive, your motivation and drive will be heightened, and your overall life will be better for it. So, I think it’s great to play other sports and have other hobbies that you love and are passionate about. I also, think it’s great if the person just simply loves playing hockey 24/7. I remember having to be dragged off the ice cause I loved it so much.

I don’t think that any one person is a like and I don’t think you can say that one way is better than the other. I do think however, that some people can lose the love of the game from constantly being pushed to play one sport. So for these types of people, having other hobbies or passions, can add that balance. As for the ones that really do love to live and breathe a certain sport, having other joys will give you a better perspective on life in general. At a young age they might not see this, but over time you will see it as they mature.

The one thing I do agree with, something I said earlier, and that is playing other sports does help build and expand one’s athleticism. I truly believe that.

Whatever way you choose to follow, the one bit of advice I could give, is just make sure that whatever it is that you or your child is doing, remember why you started doing it in the first place… Hopefully it’s simply because you love it, and that you do whatever it takes to let that guide you.

Peace.

Dusty Imoo