Balancing School and Hockey: A Game Plan for Young Athletes

As the hockey season kicks into gear, young players are lacing up their skates and diving into the action. But there’s another arena where many are also competing: the classroom. In this energizing episode of Ride to the Rink, Mike Bonelli and Lee MJ Elias offer a playbook for kids looking to balance their academic responsibilities with their passion for hockey—without dropping the ball (or puck) on either front.

Whether you're a peewee just getting started or a seasoned teen player, this episode is packed with helpful, real-world advice.

Start with a Plan

Planning isn't just for adults or coaches—it's a life skill that young athletes can (and should!) start practicing now.

Mike's Core Advice:

• Plan ahead. Don’t wing it. Map out your week.

• Set goals. Not just for hockey, but for school and other activities.

• Share your schedule. Communicate with your parents, teachers, and teammates so everyone can support your success.

When kids plan and share their schedule, it helps everyone involved—and earns major respect from adults.

Create a Personal Routine

Lee emphasized that building your own routine is key. Not your parents' job. Not your coach's job. Yours.

Ask yourself:

• What do I need to get done before leaving for a game?

• How long will it take me to eat, pack, and get dressed?

• What’s my travel time, and are there delays (like rush hour)?

Treat hockey the same way you treat school: come prepared. If you don't cram for tests, don't cram for games.

Lee's Big Tip: Do the Math

Lee shared a personal story about acing a test by cramming at the last minute—and why that one-time win led to years of frustration. The message? Don’t rely on luck. Build systems that work.

Smart planning includes:

• Writing a gear checklist (no more forgotten skates!)

• Creating a "pre-rink" task list (Did you eat? Feed the dog?)

• Packing your hockey bag the night before

Bonus Tip: Help your parents plan your game-day logistics. Ask what time you should leave and why. Be part of the prep, not just a passenger.

Proactive Kids = Happy Parents

When kids take ownership of their routines, it reduces stress for the whole family. As Mike put it: "Put yourself in a position where you're easy to help. Give your parents the plan."

A little effort now goes a long way:

• You won't forget your stick

• You won’t rush out the door

• Your parents might even buy you a donut (or a healthy snack!)

Final Whistle: Believe in Yourself

The Ride to the Rink duo wrapped up with an encouraging reminder: You can do this. Building routines and balancing responsibilities is a life skill that will serve you far beyond the rink.

Take action this week:

• Write out your weekly schedule

• Create a gear checklist

• Sit down with your parents and help plan your next game day

You've got this, and we believe in you. Want to share your own game-day routine or ask Lee and Mike a question? Have your parents email team@ourkidsplayhockey.com or text the link in the episode.

Until next time, skate hard, plan smart, and enjoy the ride.