Whether it’s killing time while kids finish practice or getting news on the run, mobile apps are an essential part of managing time for hockey parents and coaches. To help maximize your efficiency (and to have a little fun), we put together a list apps that could save every hockey family a little extra time this season.

Hockey Specific Apps

NHL Gamecenter – For hockey fans, the official NHL app is a must have. You can track your favorite team, check the standings or schedule, look up league leaders and find the latest news from around the NHL with just a few clicks. Bonus points go out to all of the State of Hockey faithful who already have the official Minnesota Wild app!

USCHO and/or College Hockey News - The entire country knows Minnesota is a college hockey hotbed, and that’s not just because of the number of players we produce or the number of programs in our state. We flat out love college hockey. That’s why these two apps were a no brainer for this list. They have everything you could want related to college hockey including scores, stats, standings, news, notifications and much more. If you’re a fan of the Bulldogs or Huskies, be sure to download the NCHC Hockey app as well so you can keep a closer eye on your team.

USA Hockey Mobile Coach – You can now take USA Hockey's coaching materials to the rink, on the road or wherever else you wish with the USA Hockey Mobile Coach app. Find practice plans, skills manuals, dryland training, small area games, videos, a custom practice plan designer and more.

Sport NGIN – With the launch of their new team management features, the Sport NGIN app goes from being a luxury to a near necessity. Not only can you receive score and schedule updates for your child’s team, but you can now receive instant notifications and messages from your coach or manager and RSVP for team events.

Minnesota Hockey Tourney – A shameless self promotion here, but seriously, is there an easier way to stay updated on all 35 Region Tournaments and 14 State Tournaments across Minnesota? Not a chance! This app provides instant scores, notifications on your team(s), directions to arenas, a social stream and all of the latest news and announcements on Minnesota Hockey’s Region and State Tournaments.

On-the-Go Apps

iExit – If you’re new to the whole concept of hockey road trips, this is one app you'll want to check out. iExit will let you know which restaurants, gas stations and other services are available at different U.S. highway exits, so you can quickly decide whether to stop now or wait another 30 minutes.

Waze - Being late to a hockey game is one of the worst feelings for parents and players. The good news is Waze can get you to the rink faster than ever before by providing real-time, driver-sourced traffic and navigation advice. The app will give you step by step instructions on which roads to avoid or use based on the presence of traffic jams and road closures. It even offers a list of the closest and/or cheapest gas stations in your area.  Just make sure it’s a passenger doing the navigating!

Yelp & AroundMe – These two are clutch performers for teams participating in out of town tournaments this season. Both apps provide a list of various businesses and services in the area including coffee shops, restaurants, hotels, shopping areas and much more. If you prefer to read reviews before checking out a new place, be sure to go with Yelp. Otherwise, AroundMe is more family friendly.

Editor’s Note: This article does not reflect the official position of Minnesota Hockey regarding these apps. It is designed to provide ideas and information to our members. All mobile users should select apps based on personal research and preferences.