If there’s one thing that unites hockey parents beyond our love for the game and our dedication to our kids, it’s our relationship with coffee. Whether it’s a 6 am practice or a late-night game, coffee isn’t just a beverage- it’s a lifeline.

The Essential Coffee Brands for Hockey Parents

Let’s start with the basics: the brands that fuel our rink-side lives.

1. Tim Hortons:

   For Canadian hockey parents (and plenty of us in the states), Tim Hortons is practically synonymous with hockey. There’s something about that familiar double-double (two creams, two sugars) that feels like a warm hug on a freezing rink morning. Timmy’s drive-thru becomes a second home, especially on those early weekend mornings when the sun isn’t even up yet. Or so I’ve heard.

2. Starbucks:

   The ever-reliable Starbucks is a staple for hockey parents who need their coffee with a little flair. Whether you’re a fan of the classic Pike Place Roast or need an extra shot of espresso in your Carmel Macchiato, Starbucks has you covered. Plus, their extensive menu means there’s something for every mood- hot, iced, sweet, strong- you name it.

3. Dunkin’:

   For those in the U.S., Dunkin’ is a go-to for affordable, no- nonsense coffee that gets the job done. Need something quick and reliable? Dunkin’s got your back. The iced coffee, in particular, is a fan favorite, even in the dead of winter because, face it, when you’re in a rink all day, the temperature outside doesn’t matter.

4. Local Favorites:

   Don’t underestimate the power of your local coffee shop. Many hockey parents swear by their neighborhood cafe, where the baristas know them by name (and maybe even their order). Supporting local businesses while getting your caffeine fix? Win-win.

   How Do Hockey Parents Like Their Coffee?

   Every hockey parent has their own unique coffee style, but there are definitely a few trends:

   1. Strong and Simple:

      Many of us are running on fumes, so we keep it strong and straightforward. Bold black coffee or a double shot of espresso is all it takes to keep us alert through hours of practice and games. No frills, just fuel.

   2. Cream and Sugar, please:

      For those who like a little sweetness in their cup, a classic coffee with cream and sugar is the way to go. It’s comforting and familiar, much like the smell of a hockey bag that’s been living in the truck of your car for a few too many days.

   3. Iced All Year Round:

      Hockey parents are a tough breed, and that toughness extends to our coffee habits. You’ll see us sipping iced coffee in the middle of January, standing by the boards in our winter coats. Why? Because we’re used to the cold, and we need to stay cool under pressure (like when the ref makes a questionable call).

   4. A Little Extra Kick:

      Let’s be honest- sometimes, you need more than just coffee to get through a game. For those especially early or late games, a slash of Bailey’s or Fireball in the coffee is a not-so-secret weapon of hockey parents everywhere. Whether it’s to take the edge off or to warm up from the inside out, a little something extra can make those freezing rink mornings a bit more bearable.

      Coffee for Kids?

      Now, the million-dollar question: do we let our kids drink coffee?

      The answer? It depends.

      For the younger ones, it’s usually a hard no. They’re already bouncing off the walls, and the last thing we need is a caffeinated 8-year-old doing laps around the rink faster than their coach can keep up.

      However, as they get older, some teens start to develop a taste for coffee. Maybe it’s peer pressure, or maybe they’ve just been around us too long. For high school players, especially those juggling school practice, and social lives, a cup of coffee in the morning or before a game might become part of their routine.

      But, like everything else, it’s all about moderation. A small cup here and there isn’t going to hurt, but we’re definitely not sending them out on the ice with a Venti in hand.

      In Conclusion: Coffee and Hockey Parenting- A Match Made in Rink Heaven

      Coffee is more than just a drink for hockey parents, it’s a ritual, a comfort, and sometimes, a necessity. It’s what gets us through those long, cold days at the rink and what keeps us cheering from the stands, no matter how early or late the game is.

      So, next time you find yourself at the rink take a moment to appreciate that cup of coffee in your hand. Whether it is Tim Hortons, Starbucks, Dunkin’ or your favorite local spot, it’s doing more than keeping you awake. It’s helping you be the best hockey parent you can be. And let’s face it, without coffee, we’d all be a little less motivated to keep up with the hectic, wonderful world off hockey.

      Leave how you drink your coffee in the comments.