Tryouts and training camp are pivotal moments in a hockey player's journey, filled with anticipation, nerves, and high expectations. Every player dreams of making the team, progressing to the next level, and hopefully some day even making the NHL...but what happens when the outcomes don't align with our hopes? How can we cope with disappointment and learn to trust God's plan in the midst of the uncertainty. Let's have a look at how embracing God's timing can bring comfort, resilience, and a deeper understanding of His purpose for our hockey and life journeys.

1. Surrendering to God's Plan: In the competitive world of tryouts and training camps, it's easy to fall into the trap of believing we have control over the outcomes. However, true peace and contentment come from surrendering our desires to God and trusting that His plan is far greater than our own.

"Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails." (Proverbs 19:21)

2. Coping with Disappointment and Finding Hope in the Midst of Setbacks: When the results of tryouts don't go as planned, it can be disheartening. Leaning on our faith can help us find hope, perspective, and the strength to keep moving forward, even in the face of disappointment.

"Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning." (Psalm 30:5)

3. Embracing God's Timing: God's timing is rarely aligned with our own, but it is always perfect. Explore stories from Scripture and the experiences of other athletes who discovered the beauty of God's timing in their hockey journeys. Learn to trust that He knows what is best for us, even when it doesn't match our expectations.

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord. (Isaiah 55:8)

4. Learning and Growing from Challenges: Tryouts provide opportunities for growth and character development. Instead of viewing setbacks as failures, see them as opportunities to learn, improve, and develop resilience. Trust that God is using these challenges to shape you into the person and player He wants you to become.

"Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope." (Romans 5:3-4)

5. The Power of Prayer, Seeking Guidance and Peace: During tryouts/training camp, it's crucial to maintain a consistent prayer life. Through prayer, we can seek God's guidance, find comfort in His presence, and experience His peace that surpasses all understanding. 

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:6-7)

6. Encouragement in Community and Surrounding Yourself with Support: In times of disappointment, having a supportive community of fellow teammates, family or friends can help. Spend time with those who will encourage you, pray for you, and remind you of God's faithfulness. 

"Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. If either of them falls down, one can help the other up." (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10)

7. Gratitude in the Process: Rather than fixating solely on the end goal, practice gratitude for the opportunities, experiences, and growth that come with the experience. Embrace each moment with a heart of thanksgiving, knowing that God is present and working in every step of your hockey journey.

"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

“Every hockey player has his or her share of adversity. I have had to deal with injuries. At times it was hard not to question my faith and wonder why these things were happening to me…I was reminded to keep my faith in God and that everything happens for a reason. The adversity I have faced has only brought me closer to God and made my success that much better." - Connor Timmins, Toronto Maple Leafs