The Ride To The Rink Episodes

Are you ready to elevate your hockey game with insights from the pros? Steve shares invaluable lessons on the significance of watching and editing hockey footage, emphasizing the creation of personal highlight reels for continuous learning and improvement. He delves into the world of video analysis in professional hockey, recounting his collaboration with goalie coach Ben Aller to uncover and correct subtle gameplay details. Steve also highlights the critical role of pre-shot preparation, applic...

Ever wondered what it takes to become an Olympian? This episode of The Ride To The Rink explores the journey of aspiring athletes with insights from Team USA Women's GM Katie Million. She shares the importance of having fun, working hard, and believing in miracles. Discover why character is as vital as talent in Olympic team selection, emphasizing the need to be a good person both on and off the ice. Learn how young athletes can develop character by doing chores, being good students, and suppor...

On this week's episode of The Ride To The Rink, retired NHLer Riley Cote shares how separating the human from the hockey player can enhance mental health and emotional intelligence. This episode emphasizes building a toolbox of skills that extend beyond the rink, focusing on personal development and mental clarity to naturally boost athletic performance. Learn how a shift in perspective empowers athletes to take control of their lives and situations, while gratitude practices help shift energy...

How do you build a strong connection with your coach? In this week's episode of The Ride To The Rink, we explore the art of eye contact and active listening to show respect and eagerness to learn. Mike shares how player maturity plays a crucial role in understanding the time and effort coaches invest in your growth. Hear how the dynamics of coach-player interactions during games, practices, and locker room talks, emphasizing the importance of positive relationships. -- 00:00:00 Intro 00:00:0...

Are you ready to unlock the secrets to building confidence on the ice? Kim McCullough shares how setting and achieving small, daily goals can transform an athlete's mindset and performance. This episode of The Ride To The Rink explores the power of self-directed goal setting, where athletes focus on specific skills or actions they want to improve during practices and games. Learn how just 10 minutes a day dedicated to extra training can lead to significant advantages over time. The discussion al...

What are you supposed to do while you're waiting to go back out on the ice between shifts? This week on The Ride To The Rink, Lee shares the importance of staying hydrated and mental preparation. By observing the game from the bench, players can also gain valuable insights into both their own team and their opponents. The discussion emphasizes the power of positive team communication inspired by Sidney Crosby's leadership style, and underscores the need for emotional regulation to handle the gam...

Ever wondered how to turn a long car ride into an unforgettable adventure? Hockey mom Christie Casciano shares her insights on making road trips to out-of-town tournaments a memorable experience for kids and parents alike. She emphasizes the importance of completing schoolwork before hitting the road, allowing for a stress-free journey. Christie suggests engaging in fun activities like I Spy and word games to keep the ride lively and interactive. She also highlights the value of bonding with tea...

Are you navigating the college hockey recruitment maze? Boston University Women's Hockey Assistant Coach Megan Myers shares invaluable insights to help young players and their families through this challenging process. She emphasizes the importance of drive, patience, and enjoying the journey, while also highlighting the resources available, such as club coaches and team managers. Megan also discusses the significance of self-advocacy, encouraging players to take charge by writing professional e...

How often do you communicate on the ice? This episode of "The Ride to the Rink" with Lee explores the critical role of communication in hockey, highlighting how it can make or break a game. Key Points: Importance of Communication on the Ice - Emphasis on the necessity of verbal communication during games and practices. - Comparison of past and present communication habits due to technology. Situational Awareness and Tactical Communication - Examples of essential verbal cues on the ice. - The...

What are you willing to sacrifice to achieve your hockey dreams? In this episode of "The Ride to the Rink," Lee challenges young hockey players to reflect on their daily habits and consider what they might need to give up to reach their goals. Key Points: Sacrifice for Goals - As young hockey players, it's crucial to look at your daily routines and spot any time wasters. Screen Time and Practice - Try cutting back on screen time to spend more time practicing your hockey skills. Incremental Im...

In this episode of The Ride To The Rink, host Sheri Hudspeth and guest Hannah Beckman dive into the unique challenges female hockey players face. They chat about the need for strong quads and glutes, and how societal pressures can clash with the physical demands of the sport. Hannah shares her personal experiences with body image and stresses the importance of mental health and proper nutrition. They also offer advice for young athletes and their parents on staying healthy and strong. Tune in fo...

Ever feel like "be patient" is the worst advice? Host Lee MJ Elias shares his unique take on patience, transforming it from passive waiting into active progress. Drawing from his experiences in hockey and life, Lee explains how focusing on present actions can make the waiting game more bearable and productive. He breaks down the concept of patience, emphasizing the importance of what you do right now to achieve future goals. Whether it's practicing hockey skills or tackling everyday tasks, Lee's...

Feeling the weight of expectations on the ice? In this insightful episode of The Ride to the Rink, we delve into mastering the mental game of hockey and managing the pressures from coaches, parents, and scouts. You’ll gain practical strategies to help young athletes recognize and address their stress and anxiety, understanding that these tough feelings are not only normal but temporary. We emphasize the importance of self-awareness and open communication, guiding you on how to have courageous c...

In this episode of The Ride To The Rink, we sit down with Olympian and professional hockey player Megan Bozek to discuss the power of having dreams and the journey it takes to achieve them. Megan shares her personal story, from dreaming of playing college hockey to representing her country on the Olympic stage. She offers valuable advice for young athletes about the importance of setting goals, the reality of facing setbacks, and the lessons learned along the way. Megan emphasizes that while no...

Welcome back, hockey skaters and goalies! On this special edition of The Ride to the Rink, we are honored to have a true hockey legend joining us—NHL Hall of Famer Bryan Trottier. As one of the top 100 NHL players of all time, Bryan has an impressive resume with seven Stanley Cups under his belt—six as a player and one as a coach. Today, he shares valuable insights on the importance of being resourceful in your training and how overcoming challenges can lead to success. Key Takeaways: •Resource...

Welcome back, hockey skaters and goalies around the world, to another edition of The Ride to the Rink! With the new season fast approaching, it’s time to get prepared. Inspired by our recent episode on Our Kids Play Hockey, we’ve created a quick three-step checklist to help you get ready for the season. 1.Equipment Check: •Make sure all your gear fits properly. •Replace any equipment that is too small or worn out. •Important items to check include hockey pants, shin guards, and sticks. •Goalies...

In this episode of “The Ride to the Rink,” hosts Lee Elias and Christie Casciano Burns provide invaluable advice for kids who are either joining a new hockey team for the first time or welcoming new teammates. The hosts discuss common anxieties, how to make a positive first impression, and the importance of teamwork both on and off the ice. This episode is packed with practical tips to help young players navigate new team dynamics with confidence and ease. Key Topics: Joining a New Team: Addr...

Show Notes: In this episode of “The Ride to the Rink,” host Lee Elias is joined by Division 3 hockey player and online influencer Luke Croucher. Currently playing for Neumann University, Luke shares his journey from Canada to Philadelphia and dives into the importance of building habits for success in hockey and life. They discuss how small, consistent actions can lead to significant improvements and the mental fortitude required to maintain these habits. Luke provides practical tips on creating...

Welcome back to another exciting edition of “The Ride To The Rink!” Today, host Lee Elias dives into a significant change coming to youth hockey players: the mandatory use of neck guards starting August 1, 2024. Whether you’re new to neck guards or have been wearing them for years, this episode offers valuable insights on how to adapt to new regulations and unexpected changes both on and off the ice. Lee emphasizes that it’s not the equipment that defines a player, but the player’s mindset and a...

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 standing ...

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 how yo...

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 develop...

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, especi...

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 themselves...