Lindsay Adler, Ontario Reign Intern

After a recent article was published about youth hockey in the Daily Bulletin, we asked a few local hockey experts about what makes youth sports, hockey in particular, so important to kids.

Matt Dunaev, Icetown Riverside GM/Hockey Director, knows firsthand how important youth sports are to kids, as he works directly with them every day at Icetown. 

“Youth sports are extremely important in that it teaches children many lessons that they will take with them in their future adult lives, “explains Dunaev, “Competition can teach important lessons that are difficult to recreate by parents such as how to prevail with class and be defeated with dignity.”

As with any team sport, the essential ingredients needed to succeed are teamwork, unity, and a sense of leadership amongst their peers. 

“In our world of youth hockey there are no exceptions to these rules,” says Dunaev, “Although there is competition and healthy rivalries that are built, there is a remarkable amount of compassion for teammates and competitors alike.”

Ontario Reign Head Coach Karl Taylor is a firm believer in the value of a player’s character and that, “The harder you work, the more dedicated you are, and the more you sacrifice, the easier success will find you.”  he also said "the lessons you learn from being part of a team will help shape your values and character for your future as an adult."

The recurring theme in youth sports is not only the thrill of competition, but more importantly what these kids can take away from it. 

Cliff Cummings, owner of Toyota of San Bernardino and parent to a youth hockey player, concludes that, “Successful people do what unsuccessful people don’t do.  They work the kids in to excel in one of the most difficult sports, and it teaches them and hopefully translates long-term into their personal and business lives.” 

“One of the first things I do in a job interview is ask the person what sports they played and the second question is what did you win, because the only way you win is by working and working hard,” says Cummings.

In the business world, leadership and the ability to communicate and work well with others are valuable assets.  Coaches and parents recognize the need to expose their children and players to healthy competition as well as life lessons needed to excel.

In closing, Dunaev explains that, “Youth hockey, or any other youth sport for that matter, is an essential aspect in child development.  Our kids take life-long lessons, memories and friendships with them from their participation in youth sports and I feel that it is tremendously significant to make youth sports for all children.”

Having children participate in youth hockey, or in any team sport, will prepare them for the various obstacles that life will throw in their path, whether it’s pursuing a career in professional sports or succeeding in the business world.

If you would like to learn more information about youth hockey visit www.icetown.com.