Being a fan is one of the best parts of hockey.
It’s the chance to support your team, celebrate the highs, and be part of an incredible community. Being a good fan goes beyond just wearing team colours or chanting from the stands. It’s about respecting the game, supporting the players, and fostering a positive environment for everyone at the rink. So, get your travel coffee mug ready, this is the unofficial rulebook for being a hockey fan. Here are some simple ways to make sure you’re cheering the right way:
Rule #1: Remember, It’s About Fun (Not the NHL Draft)
It’s easy to get caught up in the competitive spirit, but remember for the kids, hockey is about having fun, making friends, and learning life skills. Your child wants to see you cheering them on, not critiquing their every move from the stands. Celebrate the effort, the teamwork, and the love of the game, regardless of the score.
Rule #2: The Golden Rule of the Stands
Cheer for your team, but please remember the kids on the other team are someone else’s children. Just as you want your player to feel supported, so does every other parent. Keep your comments positive and directed at your own team. A classic, “Let’s go, Team Name!” goes a long way. Not every player has a strong support system, so let’s cheer for all kids on your team and show encouragement wherever it’s needed.
Rule #3: Respect the Coach
Your child’s coach volunteers countless hours to help them learn and grow. Trust their judgement. If you have a concern, don’t confront them right after a game when emotions are high, honour the 24 hour rule. Set up a private time to talk and express your concerns respectfully. Remember, your coach is part of the team you’re both working toward the same goal: your child’s development.
Rule #4: Respect the Officials
Refs are human and they make mistakes. Yelling at them from the stands teaches your child poor sportsmanship and won’t change the call. Model the behavior you want to see in your child. A bad call is a teaching moment; it’s a chance to talk about handling adversity and moving on.
Rule #5: Leave It Better Than You Found It
Whether it’s cleaning up after yourself, respecting the arena staff, or helping keep the environment fun and safe, small actions go a long way.
The Ultimate Goal: Be a Good Fan
After the game, win or lose, high-five the team, thank the coaches and refs, and congratulate your player and other players on a game well played. Being a good fan is the most important lesson your child can learn, and you are their most important teacher. Whether you’re in the rink or at the dinner table, your actions speak louder than any whistle.
At the end of the day, being a good fan means creating a positive, respectful atmosphere where players, coaches, and fellow fans all feel supported. When the stands are filled with good fans, everyone wins.
