Videos

June 5, 2024

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

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

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…

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May 31, 2024

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

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

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…

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May 24, 2024

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

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

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…

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May 22, 2024

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

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

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. In this episode, Sean…

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May 17, 2024

Inside the NHL Situation Room: A Conversation with Sean Ellis

Inside the NHL Situation Room: A Conversation with Sean Ellis

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.…

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May 10, 2024

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

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

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…

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May 8, 2024

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

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

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…

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May 3, 2024

Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Hockey with Amber Ross

Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Hockey with Amber Ross

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…

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May 1, 2024

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

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

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…

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April 26, 2024

Lee's Youth Hockey Season In Review 2024

Lee's Youth Hockey Season In Review 2024

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…

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April 19, 2024

Safeguarding Youth Athletes: Insights from Physical Therapist Dr. Addison Lerner-Lentz

Safeguarding Youth Athletes: Insights from Physical Therapist Dr. Addison Lerner-Lentz

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,…

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April 10, 2024

The Ride To The Rink - Be More Well Rounded!

The Ride To The Rink - Be More Well Rounded!

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…

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April 5, 2024

Building Teams and Developing Champions with Neil Smith and Vic Morren of the NHL Wraparound Podcast

Building Teams and Developing Champions with Neil Smith and Vic Morren of the NHL Wraparound Podcast

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…

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April 3, 2024

The Ride To The Rink - Parents and Players Should Talk Before Youth Hockey Tryouts

The Ride To The Rink - Parents and Players Should Talk Before Youth Hockey Tryouts

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…

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March 29, 2024

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

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

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…

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March 27, 2024

The Ride To The Rink - The 4 Things Coaches Will Look For At Tryouts This Season

The Ride To The Rink - The 4 Things Coaches Will Look For At Tryouts This Season

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…

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March 26, 2024

The Ride To The Rink - A Masterclass in Leadership & Inclusivity with Madison Packer

The Ride To The Rink - A Masterclass in Leadership & Inclusivity with Madison Packer

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…

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March 22, 2024

Elevating Youth Hockey with Justin Scott Through Global Insights and Grassroots Development

Elevating Youth Hockey with Justin Scott Through Global Insights and Grassroots Development

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…

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March 15, 2024

The Crucial Role of Passing and Teamwork In Youth Hockey

The Crucial Role of Passing and Teamwork In Youth Hockey

Welcome back to "Our Kids Play Hockey"! In this week's 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…

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March 15, 2024

Passion, Perseverance, and Pioneering Towards The PWHL with Madison Packer

Passion, Perseverance, and Pioneering Towards The PWHL with Madison Packer

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…

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March 6, 2024

The Ride To The Rink - Winning the Crease: Mental Mastery & Team Dynamics in Goalie Tryouts

The Ride To The Rink - Winning the Crease: Mental Mastery & Team Dynamics in Goalie Tryouts

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…

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March 4, 2024

Retired NHLer Andrew Albert's Insights on Nurturing Youth Hockey Talent Through Play and Persistence

Retired NHLer Andrew Albert's Insights on Nurturing Youth Hockey Talent Through Play and Persistence

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,…

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March 1, 2024

Our Kids Play Goalie: Tryout Strategies for Success with The Goalie Doctors

Our Kids Play Goalie: Tryout Strategies for Success with The Goalie Doctors

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…

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Feb. 28, 2024

The Ride To The Rink - Evaluating Growth In Youth Hockey At The End Of The Season

The Ride To The Rink - Evaluating Growth In Youth Hockey At The End Of The Season

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…

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