Our Kids Play Hockey
268 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 16 hours ago - ★★★★★ - 47 ratingsDiscover the playbook for youth hockey success with "Our Kids Play Hockey," the podcast that's become a game-changer for parents, coaches, and mentors dedicated to young athletes. As the go-to audio resource in the youth hockey niche, our podcast delivers a weekly deep dive into strategies, training tips, and inspirational stories directly from the rink.
Whether you're guiding a mini-mite or prepping a bantam for the big leagues, "Our Kids Play Hockey" provides the insights and advice necessary to navigate the exciting, yet complex world of youth hockey. Each episode features expert analysis on skill development, drills, coaching styles, and the psychology of coaching youth players, ensuring your time at the rink is both rewarding and effective.
Listeners will find a community within "Our Kids Play Hockey," where shared experiences from across the hockey parenting and coaching spectrum pave the way for empowering the next generation of players. With interviews from industry experts, discussions on the latest gear and safety standards, and tips for managing team dynamics, this podcast is a comprehensive guide for anyone invested in youth hockey's growth and excellence.
"Our Kids Play Hockey" is brought to you by a trio of seasoned hockey parents whose combined decades of rich, hands-on experiences infuse each episode with wisdom, heart, and invaluable insights.
Christie Casciano Burns: Esteemed USA Hockey Columnist, acclaimed author, and respected anchor at WSYR, Christie brings a wealth of knowledge and a profound love for the game to the table, enriching our discussions with her deep-seated expertise in hockey culture and media.
Mike Bonelli: A distinguished USA Hockey Coach and organizational consultant, Mike offers invaluable insights drawn from years of experience shaping players and teams. His strategic acumen and innovative coaching methodologies are cornerstones of the podcast, providing actionable advice for listeners.
Lee M.J. Elias: As a hockey entrepreneur, seasoned author, and strategic team advisor, Lee infuses the podcast with dynamic leadership principles and a winning mindset. His approach to team strategy and personal development is informed by a rich background in both sports and business management.
Together, these professionals unite to deliver unparalleled perspectives on the multifaceted world of youth hockey, making "Our Kids Play Hockey" an essential listen for anyone looking to elevate their game or guidance within the sport.
Make "Our Kids Play Hockey" your trusted source for all things youth hockey. Subscribe to connect with thought leaders and passionate voices that are shaping the future of the sport, fostering a healthy, engaging, and competitive environment for all young players.
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Episodes
The Ride to the Rink: Defy Conventions And Persevere Towards Success
April 25, 2024 04:00 - 4 minutes - 3.05 MBIn this heartfelt episode of The Ride To The Rink, Hockey Mom Christie shares a powerful story penned by her son, Joey at age 14, illustrating his profound journey through the world of hockey. Titled "Challenged and Inspired by Hockey," Joey's narrative delves into his relentless work ethic and determination that set him apart from his peers in a generation often criticized for its instant gratification mindset. Despite starting hockey later than most of his peers, Joey’s commitment turned...
Safeguarding Youth Athletes: Insights from Physical Therapist Dr. Addison Lerner-Lentz
April 20, 2024 04:00 - 1 hour - 47.5 MBIn this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," hosts Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli dive into the crucial topic of youth athlete health and workload management. The episode features a special guest, Dr. Addison Lerner-Lentz, a seasoned expert in physical therapy and sports coaching. With Christie Casciano-Burns on assignment, Lee and Mike lead a conversation that explores the delicate balance between pushing young athletes towards greatness and ensuring they remain healthy and injury-free for...
The Ride To The Rink: Mastering Tryouts
April 18, 2024 04:00 - 3 minutes - 2.57 MBHockey Mom Christie offers young hockey players invaluable advice on how to tackle tryouts with confidence and grace. Drawing from wisdom imparted by a respected coach, Christie outlines key strategies to help players stand out and effectively manage the inevitable stress and drama of tryouts. Key points include adopting the right mindset by viewing it as your responsibility to make the team, staying active and engaged whether you have the puck or not, and demonstrating strong character bo...
The Wraparound Roundtable: Join Our Ultimate NHL Bracket Challenge for a Chance to Win Big!
April 16, 2024 18:00 - 1 minute - 1.09 MBThe Playoffs Are Here!! Join our NHL Bracket Challenge for your chance to win a grand prize! One winner will receive a Wraparound Prize Pack plus additional prizes to be announced during playoffs. How to join our league: - Fill out the Google form at https://hockeywraparound.com/blogs/the-wraparound-roundtable/bracketchallenge - Get the password from the form confirmation page (we'll email it to you too!) - Join our league! (https://bracketchallenge.nhl.com/en/leagues/13251) Any addition...
The Crucial Role of Passing and Teamwork In Youth Hockey
April 13, 2024 04:00 - 46 minutes - 31.6 MBWelcome back to "Our Kids Play Hockey"! In this enlightening episode, Lee Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Christie Casciano Burns dive deep into the essential skill of passing in youth hockey. Inspired by a letter from a coach in Norway, our hosts engage in a lively discussion, shedding light on the significance of passing, teamwork, and the development of hockey IQ at the youth level. Key Highlights: The Importance of Passing: Explore the critical role passing plays in developing young athletes'...
The Ride To The Rink - Be More Well Rounded!
April 11, 2024 04:00 - 7 minutes - 5.23 MBIn this week's episode of "The Ride to the Rink," Lee Elias dives into the multifaceted benefits of being a well-rounded individual, not just for hockey players but for anyone striving to enhance their cognitive and physical abilities. Lee shares personal insights and experiences, highlighting the importance of engaging in various activities outside of hockey. Key Points Discussed: - The Value of Playing Multiple Sports: Lee discusses the well-documented benefits of engaging in various spo...
Building Teams and Developing Champions with Neil Smith and Vic Morren of the NHL Wraparound Podcast
April 06, 2024 04:00 - 1 hour - 58.7 MBIn this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," hosts Lee Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli dive into a conversation with two hockey legends, Neil Smith and Vic Morren. Neil and Vic share their invaluable experiences and philosophies on building successful teams and fostering leadership qualities in young athletes. What You'll Learn: The Art of Team Building: Discover Neil Smith's approach to creating a championship team, focusing on the blend of talent, character, and lea...
The Ride To The Rink - Parents and Players Should Talk Before Youth Hockey Tryouts
April 04, 2024 04:00 - 6 minutes - 4.79 MBOn this week's episode of "The Ride To The Rink," Lee dives into an often-overlooked aspect of hockey tryouts and evaluations: the mental and emotional journey that players and their parents experience. While the physical challenges of tryouts are widely acknowledged, the psychological pressures accompanying them can significantly impact performance and well-being. Episode Highlights: Understanding Anxiety in Tryouts: Lee shares insights into the common anxieties faced by both players and ...
The Wraparound Roundtable - Giveaway: A Great Team-First Approach W/Andy Sutton and Verbero Hockey
April 02, 2024 15:00 - 13 minutes - 9.39 MBThis week on the Wraparound Roundtable, we are giving away a pair of custom camo gloves from Verbero Hockey. Our hockey friend this week is Andy Sutton, a name many of you will know as he is a NHL Veteran who played pro for 15 years before becoming the CEO of Verbero Hockey. In addition to this week’s code word, in our short episode, you will learn more about the people behind Verbero and how they are becoming one of the game's top “team” brands. In our extended interview (watch here: htt...
How the Blackhawks Are Transforming Hockey Culture and Fan Engagement with Jaime Faulkner
March 30, 2024 04:00 - 1 hour - 44.3 MBThis week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey" features an inspiring conversation with Jaime Faulkner, President of Business Operations for the Chicago Blackhawks. Jaime shares insights into her multifaceted role, which largely focuses on advancing the fan experience—a goal the Blackhawks' team is truly succeeding at. Jaime’s leadership and vision in a pivotal position within the Blackhawks organization highlights the evolving landscape of hockey at all levels. Key Insights: The significanc...
The Ride To The Rink - The 4 Things Coaches Will Look For At Tryouts This Season
March 28, 2024 04:00 - 4 minutes - 3.16 MBIn this week’s episode of "The Ride to The Rink," Mike shares invaluable advice for young athletes heading to their hockey tryouts. Whether you're a seasoned player familiar with the team or someone stepping into a new organization, Mike's tips are designed to help you prepare effectively and stand out during tryouts. Key Points Discussed: Preparation is Key: Mike emphasizes the importance of arriving at the rink fully prepared. This includes knowing the location and timing of your tryouts...
Elevating Youth Hockey with Justin Scott Through Global Insights and Grassroots Development
March 23, 2024 04:00 - 1 hour - 57.5 MBIn this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, we explore the evolving landscape of hockey training, emphasizing the blend of physical and cognitive skills necessary for modern players. We dive into the discussion with Justin Scott, a renowned power skating specialist and certified hockey skills coach, to understand the global perspective of hockey's growth and how it translates into local training methodologies. Key Points Discussed: Expanding Hockey Globally: We discuss the worldwide expansion...
A Masterclass in Leadership and Inclusivity with Madison Packer
March 21, 2024 04:00 - 6 minutes - 4.78 MBIn this week’s episode of "The Ride to the Rink," we dive into the essence of what makes a great teammate with the guidance of Madison Packer, a renowned professional hockey player known for her leadership on and off the ice. Madison shares her insights into the simple yet profound principles of kindness, inclusivity, and respect within the team dynamic. What You Will Learn: The fundamental qualities of being a fantastic teammate. The importance of creating a safe and inclusive environmen...
Passion, Perseverance, and Pioneering Towards The Professional Women’s Hockey League with Madison Packer
March 16, 2024 04:00 - 1 hour - 50.3 MBOn this week’s episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," Lee Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Christie Casciano Burns are joined by Professional Hockey Player Madison Packer. Madison's hockey journey is a testament to resilience, leadership, and passion. From her early days on the ice in Birmingham, Michigan, to becoming an NCAA champion with the University of Wisconsin, and now stepping into the professional arena with PWHL New York, Madison's story is not just about hockey, but about life, family, and br...
The Ride To The Rink - Cultivating Sportsmanship and Character in Youth Hockey
March 14, 2024 04:00 - 3 minutes - 2.56 MBIn this week's episode of The Ride To The Rink, hockey mom Christie Casciano Burns delves into the crucial topic of sportsmanship in youth hockey. Christie shares her perspective and experiences, highlighting the importance of good sportsmanship on and off the ice. She addresses the negative impact of poor sportsmanship, such as throwing equipment and tantrums during games, and emphasizes the value of congratulating the opposing team regardless of the game's outcome. Christie's insights aim ...
Retired NHLer Andrew Albert's Insights on Nurturing Youth Hockey Talent Through Play and Persistence
March 09, 2024 05:00 - 1 hour - 42.8 MBEver wondered what it takes to make it in the NHL? Dive into this captivating episode of 'Our Kids Play Hockey,' where retired NHL defenseman Andrew Alberts pulls back the curtain on his journey to the top. From his early days in Minneapolis to becoming a Hockey Player Development Director, Alberts reveals the secret sauce: a blend of play, persistence, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. We also discuss how Andrew and the team at Sense Arena is using cutting-edge VR technology...
The Ride To The Rink - Winning the Crease: Mental Mastery & Team Dynamics in Goalie Tryouts
March 07, 2024 05:00 - 5 minutes - 3.73 MBOn this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey,: The Ride To The Rink" we're joined by the Goalie Doctors who dive deep into the psychological and social intricacies crucial for acing goalie tryouts. This episode is not just about the mechanics of goaltending but about mastering the mental game and fostering team synergy, whether you're in the crease or skating in front. In This Episode: Discover the art of mental and social finesse essential for goaltenders during tryouts, transcending b...
GIVEAWAY - NHL Sense Arena Has Innovated Training Beyond The Physical World
March 05, 2024 18:00 - 10 minutes - 7.54 MBBig giveaway this week! We are giving away a Meta Quest 3 VR headset and an annual license to NHL Sense Arena on this week’s Wraparound Roundtable. Listen for the secret code; enter it in the form linked below, and you’re in. Winners will be announced within one week of this posting. (Big bonus points if you follow @NHLSenseArena and @hockeywraparound and tag/comment with us on a post) We were privileged to interview nine year NHL Veteran and current Hockey Player Development Director for s...
Our Kids Play Goalie: Tryout Strategies for Success with The Goalie Doctors
March 02, 2024 05:00 - 1 hour - 53.4 MBOn this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey" Lee Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli welcome back Matt Tendler and Mitch Harris for a special "Our Kids Play Goalie." We focus on the goalies' perspective during try out season and the Goalie Doctors provide expert advice and insights to how to stay cool, calm, and collected in the crease. What's Inside This Episode: An in-depth discussion on the unique stresses goalies face during tryouts and evaluations. Insightful advice ...
The Ride To The Rink - Evaluating Growth In Youth Hockey At The End Of The Season
February 29, 2024 05:00 - 7 minutes - 5.24 MBIn this week's episode of "Ride to the Rink," Lee MJ Elias discusses the significance of self-evaluation and growth for young hockey players as the season draws to an end. Lee emphasizes that development should not solely be measured by a game's outcome but by personal improvement and teamwork. Listeners will learn the importance of setting and accomplishing personal goals, assessing their contributions as teammates, and the value of listening and learning from coaches and parents. This epi...
GIVEAWAY - Is The Tovi Hockey Stick The Greatest Hockey Stick Ever Created??
February 27, 2024 05:00 - 9 minutes - 6.7 MBThis week on the Wraparound Roundtable, we are giving away a TOVI hockey stick with the patented DiamondAire™ BLADE along with a Tovi hat. You’ve most likely seen a TOVI hockey stick in the wild - sometimes known as “the stick with the holes in it," but today we are going to share more information on what separates TOVI from the pack and why many are saying that it is the greatest hockey stick every created. We were joined on this episode of the show by Rich Fucillo, the COO and co-founder...
How to Choose a Summer Camp for Youth Hockey Players
February 24, 2024 05:00 - 24 minutes - 16.9 MBWhen the summer sun hits, every hockey parent starts facing the ultimate power play - selecting the perfect hockey camp for their young athlete. Andrew's heartfelt letter kicks off our heartfelt discussion on aligning camp choice with your child's passion and developmental stage. We lace up and glide through the myriad of options from skills camps to day camps, sharing how the right mix of fun and skill development can light the lamp for kids of all ages. And for those with sights set higher...
The Ride To The Rink - Win Big or Learn Trying: Unlocking the Secrets to Hockey Success and Life
February 22, 2024 05:00 - 5 minutes - 3.65 MBIn this episode of "The Ride to the Rink," host Lee Elias offers a deep dive into the mental and strategic aspects essential for hockey players and coaches as they navigate the intense periods of playoffs, big games, and tryouts. Lee shares his insights on the dynamics of winning and losing, emphasizing the importance of embracing losses as learning opportunities to achieve greater successes in hockey. Highlights Include: Winning and Losing Dynamics: Lee discusses the reality that striving...
March Madness! Preparing for Tryouts in Youth Hockey
February 17, 2024 05:00 - 39 minutes - 26.9 MBAs youth hockey tryouts loom on the horizon, the anticipation and nerves can feel overwhelming for players and parents alike. In this insightful episode, our seasoned hosts Lee Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli dive into the heart of youth hockey's "March Madness," offering a wealth of advice on how to approach tryouts with a winning mindset. What You'll Learn: Strategies for Success: Discover proven strategies for standing out during tryouts and making a lasting impression ...
The Ride To The Rink - Don't Be Like Wayne Gretzky: Unlocking A Champion's Edge
February 15, 2024 05:00 - 7 minutes - 5.13 MBOn this week's episode of The Ride To The Rink with host Lee MJ Elias, we explore Wayne Gretzky's first NHL level encounter with championship grit and what it truly takes to win when it matters most. This episode is a treasure trove for athletes, coaches, and fans, packed with strategies, historical insights, and the mental toughness required for playoff success. Key Highlights: Gretzky's Eye-Opening Experience: Discover the impactful moment when Wayne Gretzky learned a vital lesson from t...
Cultivating Love for Hockey Beyond the Ice: Insights from the Capitals' Youth Hockey Development Program
February 10, 2024 05:00 - 59 minutes - 40.9 MBIn this edition of Our Kids Play Hockey, we dive deep into the world of youth hockey development with Peter Robinson who is the Director of Youth Hockey Development for the Washington Capitals. With a career spanning 17 seasons with the Capitals, Peter shares his journey from a youth hockey player in Maryland to shaping the future of the sport in the DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia) area. Key Highlights: Peter Robinson's Path to the Capitals: Discover how Peter's passion for hockey and h...
Mastering the Art of Passing in Hockey: Becoming an On-Ice Playmaker
February 08, 2024 05:00 - 8 minutes - 6.19 MBWelcome to this week's episode of "The Ride To The Rink," where we dive deep into the essential skills that make a well-rounded hockey player. Today, we're shifting the spotlight to a skill that often doesn't get as much glory as goal-scoring but is equally critical to the game's success: passing. Episode Highlights: The Importance of Passing: We kick off the episode by highlighting how passing, playmaking, and assisting are vital components of hockey that players should practice diligentl...
The Ride To The Rink - Mastering the Art of Passing in Hockey: Becoming an On-Ice Playmaker
February 08, 2024 05:00 - 8 minutes - 6.19 MBWelcome to this week's episode of "The Ride To The Rink," where we dive deep into the essential skills that make a well-rounded hockey player. Today, we're shifting the spotlight to a skill that often doesn't get as much glory as goal-scoring but is equally critical to the game's success: passing. Episode Highlights: The Importance of Passing: We kick off the episode by highlighting how passing, playmaking, and assisting are vital components of hockey that players should practice diligentl...
The Wraparound Roundtable GIVEAWAY: Revolutionizing Hockey Safety with Duzter Hockey
February 06, 2024 05:00 - 11 minutes - 7.74 MBToday, We are giving away full youth set of Duzter Hockey protective base layers that are approved for neck, wrist and ankle protection ahead of the USA Hockey mandate, which go into effect very soon. Duzter Hockey, which is now approved for use in NHL games, was started by 16 year old Martin Negron and his father two years ago. In a short time they have quickly become the go-to brand for youth neck, wrist and ankle protection with their Duzter armor protective products Martin was inspired...
A Deep Dive into Hockey, Parenting, and Life Lessons with John Buccigross
February 03, 2024 05:00 - 38 minutes - 26.3 MBIn this episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," we have the privilege of welcoming John Buccigross, a renowned figure in ESPN's hockey coverage and a passionate advocate for the sport. Known for his in-depth knowledge and love for hockey, Buccigross shares his journey as a hockey dad, broadcaster, and advocate for youth and college hockey. Key Highlights: Buccigross's Hockey Journey: An exploration of Buccigross's path from a passionate hockey fan to a leading voice in ESPN's hockey coverage, h...
The Ride To The Rink: Preparing For The End Of The Season - Commitment, Multi-Sport Balance, and Staying Focused
February 01, 2024 05:00 - 11 minutes - 8.12 MBIn this week's episode of "The Ride to the Rink," our hosts Lee, Mike, and Christie dive into the crucial phase of the hockey season where the weather starts to warm up, and distractions abound. They discuss the importance of commitment to hockey, balancing multiple sports, and strategies for staying focused both on and off the ice. Key Highlights: Commitment to Hockey: The hosts emphasize the importance of fulfilling commitments to your hockey team, even as the season winds down and other...
Secrets Of Working For A Hockey Retailer With Chase Barud of Ice Warehouse
January 27, 2024 05:00 - 54 minutes - 37.7 MBChase Barud from Ice Warehouse joins Mike, Christie and Lee this week on Our Kids Play Hockey to arm you with the insider knowledge you need for your next hockey gear shopping adventure. Chase is here as our guide, drawing back the curtain on what it truly means to select equipment that amplifies your game without succumbing to the hype of the latest and greatest. As we navigate the realm of hockey equipment choices, we delve into the nuances of balancing cost with performance. The heart of...
The Ride To The Rink - Hotel Horror Stories
January 25, 2024 05:00 - 4 minutes - 3.05 MBThis week on The Ride To The Rink, Christie recounts the laughter-filled corridors of hotels during travel tournaments. She shares how young athletes carry their team's reputation with every sprint down the hall and every prank gone sideways. Her tales of camaraderie and the occasional hotel mishap serve as a reminder that respect and sportsmanship create the most indelible impressions.
The Wraparound Roundtable GIVEAWAY: Innovative Strides With Bill Near of Helios Hockey
January 23, 2024 05:00 - 7 minutes - 5.42 MBThis week on the Wraparound Roundtable, we are giving away a HELIOS PRO annual membership, that includes the Core performance sensor which tracks your performance on the ice instantly. Bill Near, who is the Founder and CEO of HELIOS, joins us this week on the roundtable to discuss how and why he started Helios, which is an advanced tracking system for players and coaches that also for next level statistics regarding performance. The system also syncs with all major game streaming services (...
When Is It Worth Driving An Hour For Youth Hockey?
January 20, 2024 05:00 - 59 minutes - 41.2 MBThis week's episode of Our Kids Play Hockey covers a few topics sent into us asking about travel time and how you know its too much, and the correct way to solve some team-level discipline issues! Tune in as Lee, Christie, and Mike share their expertise and experience with both questions. They truly are the "Dear Abby" of the youth hockey world! We love to help answer your questions, so be sure to send them to [email protected] or submit them via the contact page on OurKidsPlayHoc...
The Ride To The Rink - What Do These Letters Mean?
January 18, 2024 05:00 - 6 minutes - 4.76 MBNot every hockey journey looks the same, but we should be able to celebrate them all. Lee shares his own journey on this episode of The Ride To The Rink and reminds us that we should believe in ourselves regardless of what our journey looks like!
Our Kid Made It To The NHL with Tom & Ellen Atkinson
January 13, 2024 05:00 - 1 hour - 48.9 MBIn this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, we're joined by Tom and Ellen Atkinson, the parents of NHL star Cam Atkinson and four brothers who all played youth hockey. Their journey is a compelling tale of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of a family dream, offering a unique window into the life of a dedicated hockey family. The Atkinson’s discuss the complexities of managing multiple hockey schedules and how they fostered a sense of unity that helped their sons transition from local ponds to ...
The Ride To The Rink: Hey Hockey Player - You're Doing Great!
January 11, 2024 05:00 - 6 minutes - 4.64 MBMid-January marks a crucial turning point in the hockey season, and feelings of exhaustion may be creeping in. But with the right mindset, this time can also ignite a renewed passion for the game. Listen in for some strategies to help you stay connected to your love for hockey and make the most of the season's final stretch. We'll look at conducting a personal review, setting mental structures, and revisiting goals to ensure you end your season on a high, cherishing every moment on the ice. ...
We Need Your Vote - Help Our Kids Play Hockey Win Best Hockey Podcast of 2024!
January 08, 2024 18:00 - 2 minutes - 1.71 MBOur Kids Play Hockey has been honored with a nomination for the 2024 Hockey Podcast of the Year at the Sports Podcast Awards. That's right - we're in the running to win for the second consecutive year! BUT to make this happen, we need your help! It really is thanks to your loyalty and engagement that our community has grown significantly, both in downloads and on social media. This phenomenal growth is a testament to the trust you place in our conversations about the dynamic world of hockey...
Should Coaching Youth Hockey Be Emotionally Draining?
January 06, 2024 05:00 - 1 hour - 42.1 MBIn this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, hosts Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli delve into the emotional aspects of youth hockey coaching. They discuss the important role coaches play in not only teaching the game but also in shaping young lives. The episode extends beyond game tactics and drills, offering a deeper look into the emotional investment and patience required in coaching youth sports. Lee and Mike share practical tips on how to engage young players, maintain their interest, and utiliz...
The Ride To The Rink: Effective New Year Goal Setting
January 04, 2024 05:00 - 5 minutes - 4.14 MBOn this episode of The Ride to the Rink, Lee dives into the critical role of goal setting in both hockey and life. Lee shares insights from his own experiences, demonstrating how setting specific, written goals has led to real achievements. We discuss the importance of having a clear vision and the ability to adapt your goals as you grow. This episode is a straightforward guide on how to effectively set and pursue goals, providing practical tips whether you're a player, coach, or anyone loo...
Encouraging Youth Hockey Players to Step Out of Their Comfort Zones
December 30, 2023 05:00 - 43 minutes - 29.8 MBHow do you help young hockey players step out of their comfort zones and grow both on and off the ice? This week's conversation centers on practical advice for parents, coaches, and mentors, focusing on building resilience, creativity, and courage in young athletes. We dive into the importance of creating a supportive environment where mistakes are part of the learning process. Our discussion sheds light on the balance between consistent practice and the introduction of new, innovative ski...
The Ride To The Rink - Balancing Your Ego: Confidence vs. Arrogance in Youth Hockey
December 28, 2023 05:00 - 7 minutes - 5.46 MBEver wondered how the line between confidence and arrogance can make or break a young hockey player's career?Join Mike as he helps us navigate the delicate dance of cultivating a healthy ego in youth hockey. We're not just talking about puffing chests and swagger—there's an art to balancing self-assurance with humility, and it's crucial for players who want to shine individually without dimming their team's collective spirit. From leading by example in drills to handling the highs and lows o...
The Wraparound Roundtable Episode 6: Howies Hockey Giveaway - Sticking With Quality Featuring Josh VanderWel
December 26, 2023 05:00 - 8 minutes - 5.73 MBThis week on the Roundtable, We are giving away FOUR Howies Hockey bundles, which include a loaded tape tin, water bottle, stick wax, accessory bag, hat, and beanie. There’s a good reason when we say “Howies Hockey” you know exactly who we are talking about. But to get the level of household recognition wasn’t an overnight journey. For this episode, we sat down with Howie’s Hockey Marketing Director, Josh VanderWel, to walk through the 20-year journey of how Howie’s started with an idea to ...
Merry Christmas From Our Kids Play Hockey!
December 24, 2023 05:00 - 4 minutes - 3.23 MBAs the festive lights twinkle and the ice glistens Lee, Christie, and Mike are wrapping up the year with a heartfelt thank you to our hockey family. We're toasting to the incredible milestones we've reached together. In this special holiday episode, we're sharing our gratitude and reflecting on the connections made, the stories shared, and the shared passion for the puck that bonds us all. From emails to in-person chats, your engagement has been the driving force behind our exciting journey,...
A Look Back at 2023 with Our Kids Play Hockey
December 23, 2023 05:00 - 46 minutes - 31.7 MBJoin us this week as we celebrate the year's end with heartfelt gratitude. The final episode of 2023 draws the curtain on a year of conversations that have been listened to around the world from Toronto to Nepal, uniting our hockey family across the globe. We revisit the standout moments that shaped our year, from Tim Cook's ethical quandaries in youth sports coaching to Dr. Alicia Naser's wisdom on emotional endurance. We highlight our top 10 episodes, each a testament to the diverse tape...
The Ride To The Rink - Have A Great Holiday!
December 21, 2023 05:00 - 4 minutes - 3.24 MBHave a very happy holiday and make sure to enjoy yourself to the fullest! Take the time to spend with those you care about, and recharge as we head into the new year. From the entire Our Kids Play Hockey Network family, we're wishing you peace, joy, and a festive season that scores more memories than a championship game! Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! NHL Sense Arena, is a virtual reality training game designed specifically to improve hockey sense and IQ for both play...
Turning Youth Hockey Tournaments into Unforgettable Experiences with Showdown Hockey Tournaments
December 16, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 52.3 MBWith a combined experience of 30 years in the industry, Brian and Whitney Harrington join the show to give an insider's look into the world of organizing hockey tournaments, straight from the trenches. The Harringtons are experts in creating an unforgettable tournament experience that transcends beyond just winning games. They share tips on how to maximize your tournament travels and stays, and shed light on unique showdown hockey tournaments events like their Olympic skills competition and ...
The Ride To The Rink - How To Protect Your Mind From Junk For Youth Hockey Players
December 14, 2023 05:00 - 17 minutes - 12.3 MBToday's episode is a game-changer as we navigate the landscape of mental performance with the assistance of Dr. Cassidy Preston. As a mental performance coach and the author of the Amazon bestseller "Mindset First," Cassidy illuminates the significance of shielding our minds from unnecessary distractions, particularly those stemming from social media. He equates harmful mental inputs to junk food, underlining the "input vs output" concept in a way that resonates and makes you rethink your me...
Communication As A Tool In Youth Hockey with Coach Pete Whitney
December 09, 2023 05:00 - 1 hour - 48.3 MBEver wondered why some sports teams perform far better than others, despite having similar levels of talent? One answer lies within the realm of communication, and in our latest conversation with the insightful retired NCAA coach, Pete Whitney, we shine a light on this often overlooked, yet critical aspect of team sports. Together, we explore the communication dynamic in hockey, tracing its influence from youth leagues up to the NCAA level, and discussing how it can often be the determining ...