In this episode, Michael and Angela try to decode the wild, confusing, heavy maze that is youth hockey levels. From Mites to Squirts, PeeWees to Bantams, and all the way up to U16s and U18s, they break down what each level actually means—plus all the mysterious sublevels that somehow make it even more complicated. Because apparently “just hockey” isn’t a thing.

They also dive into the skill tiers—from house league chaos to AAA intensity—and explain what really changes between levels (hint: it’s not just skill… it’s stress, cost, and how far you get to travel on a weekend).

And because karma is undefeated, they share a story from this past weekend where they completely ignored their own advice from Episode 8 about forgotten equipment—leading to a full-blown family meltdown and the ultimate sin: a forgotten jersey. Yes, the podcast hosts became the cautionary tale.

It’s chaos. It’s parenting. It’s youth hockey.
And it’s another perfectly on-brand episode of Pucked Up Parents 🏒😂

Angela and Michael are back—and they’re frozen solid. 🥶 In this episode, the Pucked Up Parents hosts tackle one of youth hockey’s greatest challenges: surviving the Arctic tundra known as the ice rink. From mastering the art of layering to debating heated vests, wool socks, mittens, and why nothing ever keeps your toes warm, they break down what actually works.

They also call out the mysterious “rink heaters”—you know, the ones that exist in every building but are somehow never turned on—and share tips for braving outdoor rinks, where the cold doesn’t mess around and preparation is everything.

Along the way, Angela introduces the legendary Walgreens Jockstrap of Shame, and Michael has a life-altering moment when he finally learns the difference between a beanie and a toboggan (spoiler: he’s been wrong for years).

On this episode of Pucked Up Parents, hosts Angela and Michael tackle one of the most inevitable parts of youth hockey life: forgotten, broken, or mysteriously missing gear. From skates left at home to sticks snapped in warmups, if it can go wrong on a hockey trip—it probably will.

Angela shares a emergency goalie glove repair at an away tournament that proves lacrosse string, a needle, borrowed tools, and pure parental determination can save the day when panic is setting in. Together, Angela and Michael break down what to do when mishaps strike, offering practical tips like stay calm, assess the damage, make a plan, ask for help, and remember—YouTube is your best friend.

Whether you’re a seasoned hockey parent or new to the chaos, this episode is a reminder that gear disasters happen to everyone, and surviving them is practically a rite of passage. Laugh, learn, and maybe double-check that bag before you leave the house. 🏒😅