Finding the right equipment can improve comfort, safety and impact how the game is played. It's best to check gear pre-season to see what fits, what needs upkeep and what needs replacing. Budgeting for gear pre-season, allows your child to focus 100% on their game. Estimated cost: $35 (Estimated monthly cost for a house league player. Competitive/Rep players will likely have higher costs)
Maintaining equipment could mean the difference between catching a dull blade on the ice and executing the perfect pass. You'll need to sharpen skates and may have to replace laces, tape and sticks. Anticipating costs in advance will help you manage your expenses. Estimated cost: $15 (Estimated monthly cost for a house league player. Competitive/Rep players will likely have higher costs)
Registration, practice, and league fees vary. This expense represents the cost to get your child on the ice with a team that balances their desire to have fun and compete. Estimated cost: $45 (Estimated monthly cost for a house league player. Competitive/Rep players will likely have higher costs)
Getting up at the crack of dawn for a game or practice makes it difficult to pull together your child, their gear and an appropriate snack or meal. Buying meals or snacks for healthy energy--on the road or at the rink-- should be included in your season budget. Estimated cost: $35 (Estimated monthly cost for a house league player. Competitive/Rep players will likely have higher costs)
It's a reality that gas or public transit can add significant expense as practice rinks or games aren't always conveniently located in your neighbourhood. Make sure you add in wear and tear to your vehicle, or carpooling expenses for this figure. Estimated cost: $30 (Estimated monthly cost for a house league player. Competitive/Rep players will likely have higher costs)
The excitement of tournaments can add intensity and focus to your child's game and may even be a requirement to play in a certain league. There may be separate costs per tournament that each family has to pay in addition to their regular registration and league fees. Estimated cost: $20 (Estimated monthly cost for a house league player. Competitive/Rep players will likely have higher costs)
The expense of hotels and meals out should be included in your planning. Travel is a great social and skill-building opportunity for players, but an expense nonetheless. Tolls, off-ice events, and other small expenses could add up, if not anticipated. Estimated cost: $35 (Estimated monthly cost for a house league player. Competitive/Rep players will likely have higher costs)
Maybe someone needs to miss a day's work to take a child to a tournament, or your team will have extra practices. Your year may include surprise expenses that should be a part of your budget planning, so you can focus on enjoying everything that makes a hockey season great.