Photo Credit: Heather Pollock Photography
1. Keep Having Fun
While the stress level can be high during this time of year, don’t lose sight about what it’s all about. These could be the final few games that you spend playing with your teammates and friends before the off-season so enjoy the time together as you go on this special journey. If you were having fun during the regular season, why change anything now?
2. Stick to the routine
This can be preaching to the choir with hockey players who can be a superstitious bunch but sticking with your routine during Qualifiers will help eliminate some distractions. Keeping your mind focused on the task at hand can help relax players and remove any worries. Don’t forget anything at home before leaving for the rink!
3. One Game at a Time
You may not have been the better team during the regular season but nothing is stopping you from being the better team today. Thinking about running the table for the entirety of Playdowns can be daunting. Instead of overwhelming yourself, take Playdowns one game at a time. This is a marathon, not a sprint. Don’t get ahead of yourself because that’s when you’ll get distracted.
5. Eat Right
There are many resources out there on eating healthy and preparing quick meals that will help fuel your body on gameday. Avoid feeling sluggish on the ice by getting a proper night’s rest. Again, Playdowns is about limiting distractions and coming up with a meal plan in advance is one less thing to worry about.