Terrible. I feel this kids pain as I was that kid in AAA Bantam. It's the reason I stopped trying for high-level hockey and went back to community. And the reason I have the coaching philosophy I do, even at high levels. You earn your ice-time. It's easy to see who works hard, regardless of skill level. No on gets better sitting on the bench.
At 9 years old it shouldn't even matter.
__________________
|