In this episode of BlueLine Banter, host Nick Skweres sits down with the Chicago Hawks and Darien Phantoms player development team – Steve Poapst, Steve Climo, Brian Lite and Ricky Gomez – to answer one of the most common questions in youth hockey: "Is my kid where they're supposed to be?"

Together, they break down the player placement and development process from Mite to Midget, explaining how skills, effort, and more impact each player's path. The coaches discuss benchmarks at every level, from skating and puck control to hockey IQ and compete level, and emphasize how patience and perspective are key for parents and players alike.

Listeners will gain insight into how tryouts are evaluated, why skill development outweighs early wins, and how lessons learned on the ice translate to life skills like accountability, teamwork, and resilience. 

Whether your player is chasing butterflies at Mites or preparing for junior hockey, this conversation highlights the importance of trusting the process, supporting your child's love of the game, and remembering that every hockey journey looks a little different – but all are worth the ride!

The Chicago Hawks Hockey Club is the largest youth hockey club in the state of Illinois. The Chicago Hawks and Darien Phantoms are committed to the ongoing development and promotion of competitive youth amateur hockey. We are Everything Youth Hockey Should Be.

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