The Real Goal of the Hockey Journey: Insights from Bobby Robins

When Bobby Robins joined "Ride to the Rink" with Lee Elias, he didn’t just talk about skating drills or stickhandling tips—he delivered something far more valuable: perspective.

Bobby’s journey from driveway puck battles to the NHL is inspiring in its own right. But what makes his story essential listening for young players and their families is the heart behind it. He challenges us to think beyond the rink—to ask ourselves not just how to get better, but why we play, and who we want to become through the process.

Chasing the Hockey Dream (For the Right Reasons)

Bobby started like many kids: lacing up skates at age five, falling in love with the game, and dreaming big. But the key, he says, is not just chasing hockey success—it's making sure it's your dream.

“You might be playing hockey because your brother played, or your parents put you in. What do you really want to do?”

This message is gold for both players and parents. If hockey is your passion, pursue it fully. But if it’s not, that’s okay too. True fulfillment comes from following the path that’s meant for you.

Climbing the Hockey Ladder, One Step at a Time

Bobby introduced the idea of the “hockey ladder”—a clear progression from youth hockey to high school, juniors, college, and beyond. Each step is a goal, but success isn’t about giant leaps. It’s about consistent, daily effort.

He suggests players find five daily habits to improve their game. For him, it was:

• Drinking a gallon of water every day

• Doing extra conditioning after practice

• Prioritizing stretching and recovery

• Avoiding negative influences

• Staying mentally focused and positive

These aren’t flashy secrets—they’re small, repeatable actions that signal hunger and build momentum.

The Power of Curiosity and Questions

Host Lee Elias highlighted something profound in Bobby’s mindset: curiosity.

Instead of focusing on judgment (What will others think of me?), Bobby constantly asked questions like:

• Where am I right now in my journey?

• What are five things I can do today to get better?

• How do players make it to the next level?

Great questions, Lee points out, lead to great answers. They help players focus inward, take ownership of their path, and stay growth-oriented.

What Happens When the Journey Ends?

Perhaps the most powerful part of the conversation was Bobby’s reflection on the end of his hockey career. After reaching the NHL, an injury ended his playing days—and with it, a piece of his identity.

“To end your hockey journey in that pit, that’s a failure. You missed the point of the journey.”

Bobby’s insight? The true purpose of the hockey journey is personal growth. The game is a vehicle for building discipline, resilience, and self-awareness—skills you carry into the next chapter of your life, whether it’s in business, coaching, or family.

Takeaways for Players and Parents

• Play for the right reasons. Chase hockey because you love it—not because someone else expects you to.

• Embrace the process. Improvement comes from daily habits, not overnight transformations.

• Ask better questions. Curiosity fuels growth. Don’t worry about being judged—focus on learning.

• Prepare for life beyond the game. A successful hockey journey transitions seamlessly into whatever comes next.

Final Words

This episode isn’t just for kids dreaming of the NHL—it’s for every young athlete and family navigating the highs and lows of youth sports. Bobby Robins reminds us that hockey is more than a game. It’s a journey of becoming.

So wherever you are on your hockey path, take Bobby’s advice to heart: show up daily, ask great questions, chase the right dream—and carry what you learn into life beyond the rink.

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