Youth Buddy Program
What Is the Family Buddy Program?
Whether you're new to hockey, new to New Prague Youth Hockey, or moving into a new competitive level, there can be a lot to learn—from schedules and tournaments to volunteering, team communication, equipment, and association expectations. The Family Buddy Program helps make that transition easier by connecting families with experienced NPHA families who have been through it before. Having another hockey parent you feel comfortable reaching out to can make all the difference as you navigate the season.
New Families
Participation is completely optional. Families who choose to participate will be paired with an experienced NPHA family who can serve as a friendly point of contact throughout the season.
Your Buddy Family is someone you can reach out to with those everyday hockey questions that come up along the way—whether you're wondering what to expect at your first tournament, how volunteering works, what your player needs, where to find information, or simply “Is this normal?”
There are no wrong questions and no expectation that you already know how everything works. Your Buddy Family is there to share what they've learned, help you navigate the season, and connect you with the right NPHA resource when needed.
The goal is simple: to make sure you have someone you feel comfortable reaching out to and that your family feels connected to the NPHA community from the start.
Buddy Families
Experienced NPHA families can volunteer to serve as a Buddy Family.
You don't need to know all the answers! The goal is simply to share your experience, answer general questions when you can, and help families understand things like:
- Schedules and team communication
- Tournaments and travel
- Volunteer opportunities and requirements
- Equipment and hockey logistics
- Association resources
- What to expect throughout the season
If you don't know the answer, that's okay. Helping another family know who to ask or where to find the information is just as valuable.
Every Family Matters
At the end of the day, the Family Buddy Program is about community and connection.
No family should feel like they have to figure out hockey on their own. By supporting one another, we can make NPHA a place where families feel welcomed, connected, and confident as they navigate the hockey season.
Interested in Participating?
Whether you'd like to be paired with a Buddy Family or volunteer to become one, we'd love to have you participate.
Please Note: Participation as a Buddy Family is a voluntary way to support and welcome families within our hockey community and does not count toward required NPHA DIBS volunteer hours.