Fuel Determines How You Play | Playoff & Tournament Nutrition For Hockey Players

Author: Coach Rox

Posted on: March 03, 2026

Summary

Playoffs & tournament weekends shouldn’t feel like chaos.

Between early morning games, tight schedules, and long rink days, most athletes end up scrambling for food — and that’s where performance drops.

In this episode, we break down exactly what to pack in your cooler so you’re not chasing meals, standing in restaurant lines, or making last-minute bad choices.

Hydration. Smoothies. Overnight oats. Quick energy snacks. Practical grab-and-go options you can buy anywhere.

Preparation doesn’t have to be complicated — but it does determine how you play.

If you’re a junior hockey player, parent, or coach preparing for playoffs or tournament season, this is your simple fuel blueprint.

Fuel right. Play better.

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Gary Roberts Performance works with youth, junior, and professional athletes to build long-term performance systems inside and outside the gym.

00:00 – If You’re Searching for Your Meal… 00:32 – The Tournament Cooler Philosophy 01:45 – Why Hydration Is Always First 03:05 – The Smoothie Formula (Exact Ingredients) 04:10 – Overnight Oats for Early Games 05:20 – Hard Boiled Eggs & Simple Protein 06:10 – Honey + Almond Butter Quick Energy 06:55 – Trail Mix Strategy (When to Use It) 07:55 – Bench Fuel: Apple Sauce & Quick Carbs 08:45 – What Bars Should You Buy? 09:45 – The Biggest Mistake Parents Make 10:25 – Fuel Determines How You Play