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Our Kids Play Hockey

294 episodes - English - Latest episode: 1 day ago - ★★★★★ - 50 ratings

Discover 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

USA Hockey Rule Changes 2024 - 2025 Season

July 13, 2024 04:00 - 44 minutes - 30.8 MB

Welcome back, hockey friends and families! This week on Our Kids Play Hockey, hosts Lee Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli dive into the crucial rule changes coming to USA Hockey for the 2024-25 season. From mandatory neck guards to SafeSport certification for 18U players and updated locker room policies, we cover everything you need to know to ensure a smooth start to the season. Tune in for practical advice, thoughtful discussion, and insights on how these changes will impact...

The Ride To The Rink - Unleashing Your Inner Leader: A Special Message from The NHL’s Kim Davis

July 11, 2024 04:00 - 3 minutes - 2.25 MB

In this inspiring episode of “The Ride to the Rink,” we are joined by, Kim Davis, an extremely high-ranking official at the NHL and a global influencer in the world of hockey. Kim shares a powerful message directly aimed at young hockey players about the importance of courage and leadership in shaping the future of the sport and society. Join us as Kim emphasizes the vital role that today’s youth play in driving positive change, both on and off the ice. She discusses the importance of stand...

NHL Senior Executive VP Kim Davis on Revolutionizing Youth Hockey Inclusivity & Development

July 06, 2024 04:00 - 1 hour - 44.3 MB

On this week's episode of “Our Kids Play Hockey,” Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli sit down with Kim Davis, the Senior Executive Vice President of Social Impact, Growth Initiatives, and Legislative Affairs for the National Hockey League. Kim Davis is a transformative figure in hockey, working tirelessly to promote inclusivity and growth within the sport. In this episode, Kim shares her insights on the importance of youth hockey, the vital role of inclusivity, and how hockey can be a powerful tool...

The Ride To The Rink - Celebrating Family and Hockey: Happy 4th of July and Canada Day!

July 04, 2024 04:00 - 3 minutes - 2.11 MB

Welcome to a special holiday edition of "The Ride To The Rink" with Lee Elias! As we celebrate the 4th of July and reflect on Canada Day, Lee emphasizes the importance of family time during these festive occasions. In this brief but heartfelt episode, Lee reminds us that: Family Time is Precious: Whether it’s family dinners, holidays, or just spending time together, being with your loved ones is invaluable. Family Dynamics in Hockey: The way you interact with your family can reflect on ho...

3 Signs Of Burnout And The Steps To Avoid It

June 29, 2024 04:00 - 1 hour - 47 MB

In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli tackle a critical topic for hockey parents and coaches alike: burnout. Is your young athlete losing their passion for the game? Are they showing signs of exhaustion and lack of enthusiasm? Today, we delve into the three main signs of burnout in youth hockey players and provide actionable steps you can take to help them recover their love for the sport. Episode Highlights: 1.How To Identify Burnout...

The Ride to The Rink: Maximizing Fun and Growth in Summer and Spring League Hockey

June 27, 2024 04:00 - 7 minutes - 4.93 MB

In this episode of The Ride to The Rink Mike and Lee dive into the joys and opportunities of summer and spring league hockey. With the summer heat in full swing, it’s time to embrace the fun and freedom these leagues offer, while still focusing on personal growth and development. In this episode, we discuss: •The unique, relaxed atmosphere of summer and spring league hockey, with no practices and just one game a week. •Encouraging kids to try different positions and roles on the ice to dev...

Building America's Biggest Youth Hockey League with NIHL President Bob Apter

June 22, 2024 04:00 - 53 minutes - 37.1 MB

On this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, hosts Lee Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Christie Casciano Burns are joined by Bob Apter, President of the Northern Illinois Hockey League (NIHL), the largest youth hockey league in the United States.  Bob shares his journey from a passionate young player to the leader of a league with over 50 organizations and 300 teams. Discover how NIHL’s innovative approach to competitive balance, community involvement, and partnerships with major teams like the Chicag...

The Ride to The Rink: The Importance of Environment in Youth Hockey

June 20, 2024 04:00 - 8 minutes - 5.77 MB

On this week's episode of The Ride to The Rink, Mike and Lee discuss the critical role of environment in a young hockey player’s development. Drawing from a recent interview with professional goaltending coach Brian Daccord and insights from numerous players, coaches, and parents, Mike and Lee emphasize the significance of a positive, supportive, and challenging environment over merely playing at a higher level. They discuss: •Brian Daccord’s perspective on why environment trumps level, es...

Our Kids Play Goalie: Goalie Development and Coaching Insights with Coach Brian Daccord

June 15, 2024 04:00 - 1 hour - 54.6 MB

In this week's episode of “Our Kids Play Goalie,” Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli sit down with Brian Daccord, goaltending coach for Boston University. Brian’s illustrious career includes coaching stints with the Boston Bruins, Arizona Coyotes, and Toronto Maple Leafs, as well as winning a German championship in 2015. He is also the founder of Stop It Goaltending and the Director of Goaltending Development at Sense Arena. Brian shares his wealth of knowledge and personal experiences, including in...

The Ride to the Rink: Advocating for Yourself with Coach Jenna Trubiano

June 13, 2024 15:00 - 17 minutes - 12 MB

In this episode of "The Ride to the Rink," hosts Lee Elias, Christie Casciano-Burns, and Mike Bonelli are joined by Jenna Trubiano, head coach of the University of Michigan Women’s ACHA Division I hockey team. Jenna shares invaluable advice for young hockey players and their parents about the importance of advocating for yourself and communicating effectively with coaches. Key Topics Covered: Self-Advocacy: Jenna emphasizes the significance of young athletes learning to advocate for themse...

Leading The University of Michigan Women's Ice Hockey Team To New Heights with Head Coach Jenna Trubiano

June 08, 2024 04:00 - 1 hour - 42.6 MB

In this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," hosts Lee Elias, Christy Casciano-Burns, and Mike Bonelli welcome Jenna Trubiano, head coach of the University of Michigan Women’s ACHA Division I hockey team. Jenna shares her inspiring journey from a late-start youth player to leading one of the most promising women's club hockey programs in the country. Key Topics Covered: Jenna's Hockey Journey: Discover how Jenna went from learning to skate at age nine to becoming the head coach at her...

The Ride To The Rink - The Benefits Of Ball Hockey With Sheri Hudspeth of the Vegas Golden Knights

June 06, 2024 04:00 - 3 minutes - 2.17 MB

Hello, hockey skaters and goalies around the world! Welcome back to another edition of The Ride to the Rink. This is Lee Elias with you today, and we have a special guest from the Vegas Golden Knights, Sheri Hudspeth. Sheri is the Director of Development for Youth Hockey and Fan Engagement, and she joins us to discuss the importance and benefits of ball hockey. Sheri emphasizes that ball hockey is a fantastic way for ice hockey players to improve their skills at home. It’s also a great soci...

Wraparound Roundtable - Young Entrepreneur Spotlight: Logan Cuvo & the Best DAM Tape Co. - GIVEAWAY

June 05, 2024 04:00 - 10 minutes - 7.23 MB

This week on the Wraparound Roundtable, we are giving away a sleeve of 10 rolls of clear tape, two sets of black cloth tape, two sets of white cloth tape, two cans of wax, and a hat. Our hockey friend this week is Logan Cuvo, the founder and CEO of the Best Dam Tape Company. Logan is the first of several young entrepreneurs joining us in the coming weeks as we promote and populate their stores with some action. In this episode, you’ll hear Logan’s inspiring story and learn about the innovat...

Sheri Hudspeth's Vision for Las Vegas Youth Hockey and Community Engagement

June 01, 2024 04:00 - 54 minutes - 37.4 MB

In this week’s episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," Lee, Mike, and Christie are joined by Sheri Hudspeth, Director of Youth Hockey Programs and Fan Development for the Vegas Golden Knights. With an extensive background as both a player and coach, Sheri discusses her journey through the world of hockey and her pivotal role with an NHL team that's swiftly become a community pillar in Las Vegas. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Sheri Hudspeth’s Hockey Roots: Discover how growing up in a hocke...

The Ride To The Rink - What To Do When Hockey Hurts

May 30, 2024 04:00 - 2 minutes - 1.43 MB

In this week's episode of The Ride To The Rink, hockey mom Christie Casciano Burns opens up about the emotional and physical toll of hockey injuries. Sharing her personal experience with her 12U son's wrist fracture during a Niagara Falls tournament, Christie highlights the challenges of dealing with injuries far from home. The episode emphasizes the importance of not playing through pain, especially when dealing with head injuries, and encourages young athletes to prioritize their health fo...

Dave Caruso's Journey from Non-Traditional Roots to Hockey Leadership

May 25, 2024 04:00 - 1 hour - 48 MB

On this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey" we chat with Dave Caruso, former Ohio State University goaltender and professional player, now the Senior Director of Hockey Programming for the Columbus Blue Jackets. From growing up in non-traditional hockey markets to coaching in the New Jersey Devils organization and contributing to the U.S. Youth Olympic team's recent gold medal success, Dave shares his unique insights and experiences that span across playing, coaching, and administration...

The Ride to the Rink: NHL VP of Hockey Ops Sean Ellis on Handling Emotions and Respect in Hockey

May 23, 2024 04:00 - 12 minutes - 8.88 MB

In this episode of The Ride To The Rink, we're thrilled to have Sean Ellis, Vice President of Hockey Operations for the NHL, join us. Sean works in the NHL’s Situation Room in Toronto, making crucial calls during games that can turn the tide of play. Sean shares invaluable advice for young hockey players on how to respond to calls on the ice. He discusses the importance of managing emotions, whether it's a good call or a bad one, and how to use those feelings to fuel your performance positi...

Inside the NHL Situation Room: A Conversation with Sean Ellis

May 18, 2024 04:00 - 1 hour - 52.5 MB

On this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," we take you behind the scenes look at NHL operations with our special guest, Sean Ellis, a Vice President of Hockey Operations at the NHL. We dive deep into the mechanics and the thrill of managing the famed NHL Situation Room. Key Highlights: Sean's Hockey Journey: Sean shares his personal journey from playing junior hockey in Massachusetts to finding his path in the NHL. Discover the series of fortunate events and the pivotal decisions t...

The Ride to the Rink - Kid Questions: What Do You Admire About Great Leaders?

May 16, 2024 04:00 - 5 minutes - 3.9 MB

In this episode of "The Ride to the Rink," Lee MJ Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli dive into an essential topic for young athletes: leadership. Inspired by a question from Logan, a young listener eager to become a role model for his teammates, our hosts share their insights on what makes a great leader in youth hockey. Mike starts the discussion by emphasizing the importance of compassion and the ability to understand and support teammates facing adversity. He highlights the...

Inside the Flyers' Impact on Youth Hockey, Warrior Hockey, And The Community with Rob Baer

May 11, 2024 04:00 - 42 minutes - 29.5 MB

In this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," Lee Elias speaks with Rob Baer, the Director of Youth Hockey and Amateur Programs for the Philadelphia Flyers. Rob has dedicated over two decades to the sport, significantly impacting both youth and amateur hockey through various programs and initiatives. Notably, he's a key figure in the Flyers' Learn to Play program and an assistant coach for the Flyers Warriors. Discussion Highlights: Rob Baer's Hockey Journey: From playing at Archbisho...

The Ride To The Rink - Understanding Time and Space in Hockey: A Deep Dive for Players and Parents

May 09, 2024 04:00 - 6 minutes - 4.84 MB

On this week's Ride To The Rink, Lee takes a detailed look into one of the most crucial aspects of hockey strategy — understanding "time and space." This episode is especially valuable for young players and their parents as we decode what coaches mean when they instruct players to "create time and space" on the ice. Key Episode Highlights: - Introduction to Time and Space: Lee kicks off the episode with a fundamental question from our Facebook group about what exactly coaches mean by "time...

Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Hockey with Amber Ross

May 04, 2024 04:00 - 36 minutes - 25.4 MB

In this episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," Lee Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli host Amber Ross, a trailblazer for women's hockey in Minnesota. A former collegiate player and current youth hockey coach, Amber shares her journey from a late start in the sport at age 15 to coaching youth teams. She discusses the importance of female role models in coaching, highlighting her motivations to empower young girls through sport, including her own daughters. Amber dives into the chal...

The Ride To The Rink - What To Do When You Don't Make The Team You Wanted To Be On

May 02, 2024 04:00 - 9 minutes - 6.52 MB

This week's episode of Our Kids Play Hockey tackles a pivotal question straight from the Our Kids Play Hockey community: How can you be a good teammate or supportive parent, especially when you or your child doesn't make the desired team? Lee delves into the importance of maintaining a positive and proactive attitude, regardless of the team placement. Drawing from personal experiences, he shares how some of his most rewarding hockey seasons were those where he didn't make the team he initia...

The Ride To The Rink - Embracing Challenges and Growing as a Player

May 02, 2024 04:00 - 10 minutes - 7.22 MB

We Want To Hear From You - Click Here To Leave Us Fan Mail! This week's episode of Our Kids Play Hockey tackles a pivotal question straight from the Our Kids Play Hockey community: How can you be a good teammate or supportive parent, especially when you or your child doesn't make the desired team? Lee delves into the importance of maintaining a positive and proactive attitude, regardless of the team placement. Drawing from personal experiences, he shares how some of his most rewarding hock...

The Wraparound Roundtable - Giveaway: A Great Team-First Approach W/Andy Sutton and Verbero Hockey

May 01, 2024 04:00 - 11 minutes - 8.17 MB

We Want To Hear From You - Click Here To Leave Us Fan Mail! This 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 to...

Lee's Hockey Year In Review 2024

April 27, 2024 11:00 - 29 minutes - 20.2 MB

In this episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," Lee takes us on a reflective journey through the 23-24 hockey season, sharing personal anecdotes, triumphs, challenges, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. From the early skating strides of his daughter, Alina, in her first mite hockey season, to his son, Logan, embracing the goalie crease in his first squirt season, Lee delves into the transformative power of family, fun, and community in the youth hockey experience. What You'll Disc...

AMBER ROSS

April 27, 2024 04:00 - 38 minutes - 26.6 MB

When Minnesota's own Amber Ross laced up her skates at 15, little did she know that the ice would become her stage for forging paths in women's hockey. Now, as a coach, she's shaping the game for the next generation, offering a potent mix of inspiration and real-world advice. We're elated to welcome her to share her incredible transition from a collegiate athlete to a beacon for young female players, underscoring the importance of representation and the joy that comes from a family's embrace ...

The Ride to the Rink: Defy Conventions And Persevere Towards Success

April 25, 2024 04:00 - 2 minutes - 1.82 MB

In 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 - 46.2 MB

In 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 - 1 minute - 1.34 MB

Hockey 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 MB

We Want To Hear From You - Click Here To Leave Us Fan Mail! The 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! (htt...

The Crucial Role of Passing and Teamwork In Youth Hockey

April 13, 2024 04:00 - 44 minutes - 30.4 MB

Welcome 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 - 5 minutes - 4 MB

In 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 - 57.4 MB

In 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 - 5 minutes - 3.56 MB

On 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 ...

How the Blackhawks Are Transforming Hockey Culture and Fan Engagement with Jaime Faulkner

March 30, 2024 04:00 - 1 hour - 43 MB

This 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 - 2 minutes - 1.93 MB

In 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 - 56.2 MB

In 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 - 5 minutes - 3.56 MB

In 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 - 49 MB

On 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 - 1 minute - 1.34 MB

In 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 - 41.6 MB

Ever 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 - 3 minutes - 2.5 MB

On 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 MB

Big 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 - 52.1 MB

On 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 - 5 minutes - 4.01 MB

In 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 MB

This 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 - 22 minutes - 15.7 MB

When 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 - 3 minutes - 2.42 MB

In 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 - 37 minutes - 25.7 MB

As 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 ...

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