Stay to Play tournaments in youth hockey have become a controversial topic among parents. These tournaments require participants to book accommodations at specific hotels. While ostensibly designed to boost local economies and provide convenient housing for players and families, many parents have raised concerns about the potential for financial exploitation.

Go Deeper

So we surveyed the For the Love of Hockey community to get everyone's unique and often local perspective. We created a site with the feedback, which we used verbatim. 

Want to share your point of view?

The survey is completely anonymous so feel free to speak your mind. You can complete the survey here. 

Key Issues with Stay to Play Tournaments:

1. Hidden Costs: While the tournaments themselves might be reasonably priced, the mandatory hotel accommodations can significantly increase the overall expense for families. These hotels often charge premium rates, especially during peak tournament seasons.
2. Lack of Transparency: Parents often question the transparency of the process, as there's little to no oversight on how the tournament organizers select hotels and negotiate rates.
3. Substandard Accommodations: In some cases, parents have reported staying in hotels with subpar conditions, including issues like mold, pest infestations, and unsafe locations.
4. Limited Flexibility: The mandatory hotel stays restrict families' choices and can limit their ability to find more affordable or suitable accommodations.

Potential Strategies for Parents:

• Research Alternatives: Explore nearby accommodations, such as vacation rentals or other hotels, to compare prices and amenities.
• Communicate with Tournament Organizers: Directly address your concerns with the tournament organizers and inquire about potential alternatives or discounts.
• Leverage Military Discounts: If applicable, use military discounts to secure more affordable hotel rates.
• Consider Opt-Out Fees: Some tournaments offer opt-out fees that allow teams to book their own accommodations. While this might incur an additional cost, it can often be more cost-effective in the long run.

So what's the bottom line?

By understanding the potential pitfalls of Stay to Play tournaments and implementing these strategies, we should be able to make informed decisions and minimize the financial burden on our families. After all, youth hockey should be a fun experience for everyone, not a financial drain. So, the next time you're faced with a Stay to Play tournament, don't be afraid to question the arrangements and seek out alternatives. Your wallet (and your sanity) will thank you!