Why Playing More Than One Sport Is One of the Best Things a Young Hockey Player Can Do

Let’s get one thing straight, we love hockey. And we’re pretty sure your kid does too. But if they’ve also got a soccer ball in one hand and a baseball glove in the other? That’s not a distraction from hockey, that’s a huge advantage.

At Champions, we’ve been helping kids become better hockey players since 2007. One of the smartest (and science-backed) ways to keep improving on the ice? Stay active in a variety of sports.

Luke Saunders & Roman Matchett (Baseball), Liam MItchell (Roller Hockey), Brady MacDonald & Lane Edmondson (Volleyball), Drew Doherty (Baseball), Taylor Warren (Lacrosse)

The Science Is Solid: Multi-Sport Kids Become Better Athletes

Getting reps in different sports helps young athletes build a more complete skill set that they can bring right back to the rink. Here’s how:

1. They build better coordination - Different sports challenge the body in different ways. Soccer builds footwork and endurance. Baseball and lacrosse sharpen hand-eye coordination. Basketball helps with spacing, agility, and reaction speed. Every one of those skills can transfer to hockey.

2. They reduce injury risk - Playing a mix of sports helps develop balanced muscle groups and different movement patterns. That can lead to stronger, more resilient athletes over time.

3. They stay sharp and engaged - Playing another sport can give kids a fresh perspective and help them stay excited about training and competition. It keeps things fun, and when things are fun, kids are more likely to give it their all.

4. They tend to perform better long term - Studies show that multi-sport athletes often have higher overall athletic performance and more success later in their main sport.

   
   

Just Ask the Best in the World

Some of the NHL/National Team’s top players didn’t just grow up playing hockey:

• Sidney Crosby and Jack Johnson played baseball together at Shattuck.

• Connor McDavid played soccer and baseball into his early teens.

• Wayne Gretzky credits baseball and lacrosse with helping shape his vision on the ice.

• Cale Makar grew up playing a range of sports before focusing on hockey.

• Hayley Wickenheiser was a dual-sport athlete, competing in softball for Team Canada alongside her legendary hockey career.

Hayley Wickenheiser (Softball), Jack Johnson & Sidney Crosby (Baseball), Wayne Gretzky (Lacrosse)

Champions Supports the Whole Athlete

At Champions, we’re all-in on hockey. It’s what we do. But we also know that becoming a great hockey player doesn’t only happen with a stick in your hand. Playing other sports builds athleticism, decision-making, and confidence, all of which make players better when they’re back on the ice.

Corbin Kirkpatrick (Soccer), Isaac Miller (Baseball), Ciaran Frame (Water Sports), Mally & Westin Garsch (Skiing), Grady Antworth (Baseball)

It’s Not Just About Sports

While playing multiple sports can help kids become better athletes, we also believe in the value of well-rounded experiences beyond just being on a team. Whether it’s music, art, reading, travel, or even stepping into leadership roles like reffing, umpiring or coaching, these activities help young people build confidence, empathy, and communication skills. They teach responsibility, perspective, and how to handle pressure in different ways. At the end of the day, hockey is just one part of who they are. We're proud to support the development of great players, but even prouder to help shape great people.

Braxton Kirkpatrick, Hart Johnston, Carter Kennedy, Declan MacFarlane & Cooper Pringle, Shayne Burgoyne, Dawson Brewer, Bryce Jewett, Rostislav & Miroslav Zeldin