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U S A H O C K E Y PA R E N T H A N D B O O K 7 BE PROACTIVE: Ask your local association what is included in return for your registration fees, and how the money is allocated toward ice time, officials, travel, and administration. Ensure these topics are covered during preliminary parent meetings so you understand your finan- cial commitment for the season. AVOID UNNECES- SARY SPENDING: Pack lunches and snacks, stay in hotels with complimentary breakfast, and limit extensive travel to distant tournaments. Development happens at the local rink. Road trips can be fun, but they aren't where you get the most bang for your buck. Proper fit matters U S A H O C K E Y PA R E N T H A N D B O O K 7 U S A H O C K E Y PA R E N T H A N D B O O K TRY HOCKEY FOR FREE While you're already part of the sport, if you have friends whose children would like to try youth hockey, USA Hockey hosts Try Hockey For Free events each year that give children who haven't had that opportunity to play hockey a chance to try it for free. THE SKATES AND STICK DON'T MAKE THE PLAYER. Put your children in equipment that fits properly and is safe, comfortable, and adequate. Resist the temptation to outfit them lavishly. If you have questions regarding when a big-ticket splurge may be appropriate, ask your coaches or association. SIZING UP YOUR HOCKEY STICK: Regarding sticks, proper length is crucial. While there is a range, a good rule of thumb is that the top of an upright stick with the toe of the blade on the ground shouldn't rise above a players eyes of standing in shoes. In skates, the top of an upright stick with the toe of the blade on the ground shouldn't rise much above the chin or sit below the collarbone. T R Y H O C K E Y F O R F R E E . C O M