How can we revolutionize youth hockey development? This week's episode of Our Kids Play Hockey explores the transformative impact of the American Development Model (ADM) on young players in the U.S. USA Hockey's Senior Director of Player & Coach Development, Ken Martel, joins the show to share insights on creating…
On this week’s episode of The Ride To The Rink John O’Sullivan shares ways that youth athletes can overcome uncomfortable conversations regarding sports with their parents - specifically during car rides to and from the rink. John shares the best tactics needed to help young athletes communicate and advocate when…
Have you checked out the Rivalry Series yet? In this episode of The Ride To The Rink, Sheri and Lee dive into the growing excitement around women’s hockey and the impact of watching Team USA and Canada face off in their annual Rivalry Series. They explore how USA Hockey is…
Are you raising a future sports star? John O'Sullivan offers his insights into nurturing confident, competitive athletes and discusses his upcoming book "The Champion Sports Parent: Practical Wisdom for Raising Confident, Competitive, Mentally Tough Athletes." Discover the significance of self-awareness for parents, as John emphasizes examining personal motivations in youth…
Are you missing out by focusing on just one sport? This episode of The Ride To The Rink explores why playing multiple sports can enhance long-term athletic development and enjoyment. Kevin Shier of TOP Sports shares insights on managing the challenges of balancing various sports and activities, offering practical advice…
How can we expand the world of girls' hockey? This episode of Our Girls Play Hockey explores this question with Kristen Bowness, who shares her journey of growing girls' hockey programs in Nashville and now in Utah. She highlights the importance of girls-only hockey, emphasizing how these programs and tournaments…
Are kids missing out by specializing in just one sport at a young age? Is specializing in one sport too soon hindering our kids' development? Discover how Kevin Shire and Top Sports are transforming youth athletics with a multi-sport approach that encourages playing hockey, soccer, and lacrosse within a single…
How do you handle the pressure of negative comments from the stands? This episode of "The Ride To The Rink" tackles this pressing issue, offering practical advice for young hockey players facing critical remarks from parents during games. Christie, Lee, and Mike explore the impact of such behavior on performance…
Is your mental game on point? This week on The Ride To The Rink, Olympian and Professional Hockey Player Hayley Scamurra as she shares invaluable insights on the importance of mental fitness, reflecting on lessons she wishes she had learned earlier in her career. Discover how positive self-talk can significantly…
Have you ever witnessed a youth hockey game where the parents seemed more intense than the players? This episode of Our Kids Play Hockey tackles the pressing issue of inappropriate parent behavior at games, where cursing at referees and yelling at children can become all too common. This episode explores…
Are your screens sabotaging your game? This episode of The Ride To The Rink features expert Larissa Mills and explores how simple habits like avoiding your phone for 30 minutes after waking and shutting it off an hour before bed can boost your performance. Discover how excessive screen time can…
Ever wondered what it's like to be drafted into a professional hockey league? Hayley Scamurra shares her thrilling experience of being selected by Ottawa in the inaugural PWHL draft, capturing the excitement and uncertainty of not knowing where she would land. She also opens up about the transition from college…
Are smartphones stealing the spotlight from youth athletes? This episode of Our Kids Play Hockey explores the impact of excessive phone use on mental health, performance, and development. Our guest expert, Larissa Mills, gives some surprising suggestions in advocating for limited screen use until a certain age. Discover how to…
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…
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…
How has the world of hockey transformed with the rise of analytics? In this episode of Our Kids Play Goalie Steve Valiquette explores the impact of statistical analysis on hockey, revealing a 40% increase in east-west scoring chances over the past five years. Discover the significance of the Royal Road,…
What does it take to make the Olympic team? This week's Our Girls Play Hockey brings you insights from US Women's National Team GM Katie Million on the rigorous selection process for the national hockey team. Hear the challenges of making tough roster decisions and the intense USA-Canada rivalry, celebrated…
How can mindfulness transform the way young athletes experience hockey? In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, retired NHLer Riley Cote explores the profound impact of teaching mindfulness and mental fitness to young players. He highlights how these practices can enhance focus, emotional regulation, and overall enjoyment of the…
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…
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…
Ever wondered how to stay calm and enjoy your child's hockey games without the stress? Join Lee MJ Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Christie Casciano Burns as they share invaluable insights on managing anxiety as a hockey parent. Through personal stories and practical advice, they explore the journey from being a…
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 mentally prepared. By observing the game from the bench, players can also gain valuable insights into…
Ever wondered how girls hockey differs from boys hockey? Join us as Kim McCullough, director of Total Female Hockey, shares her insights on the social dynamics and skill development in youth hockey. Discover the unique challenges and opportunities in the girls' game and how they shape the future of female…
What does it take to build a winning team in the NHL? In this special crossover edition of "Our Kids Play Hockey," host Lee MJ Elias joins the NHL Wraparound podcast, featuring Neil Smith, former GM of the 1994 New York Rangers Stanley Cup champions, and Vic Morren, award winning…