Fun versus Satisfaction
by John Hannon
Fall 2003

Youth hockey players often hear the directive to "have fun" out there.

This is, of course, a noble and idealistic goal. It reinforces the thought that childhood should be enjoyable and
carefree.

What is having fun? Goofing around? Laughing? Play-acting?

Is working to the point of exhaustion having fun?

Is toiling and sweating having fun?

Is developing a passion for studying and learning having fun?

Is playing through pain having fun?

Is giving up other social activities to play or practice having fun?

Around the time players move past the age of 10, the "game" of hockey turns to the "competitive sport" of hockey;
especially for those pursuing excellence and aspiring to play at the college, junior, or pro level.

This is when such players can no longer simplistically be urged to "have fun." Why? Because working to the point of
exhaustion, toiling and sweating, studying and learning, playing through pain, and giving up other social activities are
not fun.

This is when satisfaction must replace fun as the driving force for self-motivation and player development.

What is satisfaction?

#1 Satisfaction must begin with a commitment to make the most of one's God given abilities. As has been said, "To
those that are given more, more is expected."

# 2 Satisfaction needs to continue with a relentless dedication to the pursuit of excellence. This means seizing upon
every learning opportunity, never settling for a second-rate teacher/coach, and never putting up with the antics of
uninformed or improperly influential parents.

Satisfaction is getting a little bit better every day.

Satisfaction is coming from behind to steal a victory.

Satisfaction is beating an opponent you were believed to have no chance against.

Satisfaction is backchecking to save a goal.

Satisfaction is sticking up for a teammate.

Satisfaction is passing to your teammate so they can score on an empty net.

Satisfaction is being physically and mentally exhausted, even in defeat.

Satisfaction is having a tear in your eye when the final game of the season ends.

Satisfaction is seeing a player on the verge of quitting the game having their spirit rekindled.

Satisfaction is seeing a player you coached become a coach.

There is nothing wrong with fun. But fun is not the same thing as satisfaction. It is critical for the development of elite
young athletes that the two not be confused.