Youth Hockey

Youth sports in America is very big. People have dedicated their lives into creating the next superstar. However, hockey is a little bit different. Ice Hockey and Roller Hockey is currently on the decline. The main reason for this is concussions. Kids are getting hurt and then become to afraid to step on the ice or court. USA Hockey a few years ago changed a rule that kids could not start checking until Bantam Hockey (14 and under). Unfortunately, kids were still getting hurt and many were quitting. Kids these days are being undisciplined and reckless by trying to take someone's heads off because they did something that bothered them. Another reason why hockey is on the decline is because of the equipment. The equipment itself is not the issue, it is the price of the equipment. Hockey by far is the most expensive sport to play because of all the equipment that is needed. For example, the normal price for player skates is about $300-$400. For low income families, that is a hassle. Equipment for goalies is also ridiculous. The price for pads have skyrocketed over the past few years. The top end pads can go anywhere between $1500 and $2000. If hockey equipment was a lot less expensive, more people would play. Even though hockey has concussion problems, it does not happen as often as it does in football. You would have to be hit a certain velocity and angle to get a concussion in hockey. Even though the equipment is expensive, it is very protective. If ran right and coached right, hockey could become a child's life and dream to play in the NHL.