Have You Heard the Phrase, “Good teams find a way to win”?
On the surface, it may sound as if only talented teams win tough hockey games. However, the phrase really refers to mental toughness.
The hallmark of mentally tough teams is their ability to adapt, overcome challenges, and execute under pressure.
Sometimes, that means moving on from an ineffective game plan, altering your style of play, adapting to how the game is being officiated, or relying on sheer determination to snatch victory.
Finding a way to win is what separates the good teams from the great teams.
How do you find a way to win? When you break down the phrase, two essential elements become apparent.
“Finding a way” means looking for opportunities to score, whether it’s aggressive forechecking, making a hustle play, or battling for a puck against the boards.
Mentally tough teams know that one play can turn around a game. The second point is that mentally tough teams focus on a “way to win.”
In other words, good teams are not fearful of losing, nor are they playing “not to lose.” When you play not to lose, you are focused on trying not to make mistakes.
You are playing reactively on the ice instead of looking to make a positive play. You are tentative, and hesitancy on the ice leads to scoring opportunities for the opposing team.
Mentally tough teams are on the attack. They play with a sense of urgency. They are immersed in what is happening on the ice moment by moment. They play instinctively.
Good teams know they can win even if they are down a player in overtime. Good teams, mentally tough teams, are confident in their ability to do what it takes to win.
In a 2024 midseason NHL matchup, Ottawa Senators left winger Brady Tkachuk scored 55 seconds into overtime to lift Ottawa to a 3-2 victory over the Calgary Flames for their fifth straight win.
After the game, Ottawa left winger Nick Cousins, who scored earlier in the game, talked about how good, mentally tough teams find a way to win when the game is on the line.
COUSINS: “I think there’s been games this year where maybe we outplayed the other team, and we didn’t find a way to win. Karma was on our side tonight because probably not our best. That was an ugly game from both sides. There was not much going on out there. Good teams find a way to win and big goal by [Tkachuk] in overtime.”
In hockey, good, mentally tough teams distinguish themselves by their ability to adapt, persevere, and capitalize on opportunities in challenging situations. It’s this combination of hustle, resilience, and teamwork that helps turn adversity into success.
In close games or playing under adverse circumstances during a hockey game, ask yourself, “What can I do to turn the game in our favor?”
Then, it’s a matter of matching your actions to your mindset. If you still need a boost of motivation, remind yourself, “Good teams find a way to win.”
Related Articles on Hockey Mental Game:
- Mental Keys to Recovery for Hockey Players
- How Mental Toughness Contributes to Success
- Learning from a Tough Loss in Hockey
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