Hanging Up the Skates How to move forward when the competitive playing career reaches the end

At some point, every player faces the moment when hockey isn’t the center of everything anymore. Maybe it’s an injury that won’t go away. Maybe money gets tight. Or maybe you’ve just hit a wall and can’t climb to the next level. Whatever the reason, stepping away from the game is tough.

For years, hockey might have been the way you introduced yourself: “I’m a hockey player.” It feels like that’s who you are. But here’s the truth—it’s something you do, not the only thing that defines you. That’s a hard shift to make, but once you see it, you realize there’s more to you than just the game.

The first step is not to erase your hockey identity, but to use it differently. The same drive that got you up for early practices, pushed you through tough workouts, and kept you competing can be applied to other parts of life. That competitive fire doesn’t disappear when you stop playing—it just needs a new direction.

Staying active helps. You don’t have to run the same drills you’ve done since you were a kid, but you can find new ways to challenge yourself. Lifting, running, or even trying a new sport can give you that same rush. Competing with friends—whether it’s in the gym, on a court, or even in something casual—keeps that edge alive without the pressure of chasing a roster spot.

You also don’t have to leave hockey completely. Coaching younger players, helping at camps, or even just volunteering around the rink keeps you connected. Passing on what you’ve learned is one of the best ways to stay part of the game. Hockey gave you a lot—this is your chance to give something back.

Another big step is figuring out what else you enjoy. For a long time, your answer to “what are you into?” might have been just hockey. Now’s the time to explore. Maybe it’s music, writing, business, or something totally unexpected. Trying new things doesn’t mean you’re leaving hockey behind—it means you’re building a bigger picture of who you are.

Having people around you who get it makes a difference. Coaches, teammates who’ve already moved on, or even friends outside the sport can remind you that you’re more than just a player. They can push you to think about the future, even when you’d rather not. Listening to them can make the transition smoother.

If you’re still playing, here’s some advice: start preparing now. Don’t wait until the game ends to think about what’s next. Explore other interests, build connections, and think about the kind of life you want after hockey. The earlier you start, the easier it will be when the time comes.

Walking away doesn’t mean losing everything hockey gave you. The discipline, the toughness, the ability to work with others—those skills carry over into every part of life. Hockey will always be part of your story, but it doesn’t have to be the whole story.

Looking back, I don’t see the end of my playing days as a loss. I see it as a turning point. Hockey shaped me, but it doesn’t define me. I’m more than an ex-player—and so are you. The rink may fade into the background, but the lessons, friendships, and fire to compete will always stay with you.