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 game.

The discussion also emphasizes the importance of maintaining the joy and fun of hockey, rather than pushing for elite development too early. Riley shares his personal experiences, shedding light on the critical need to address mental health and emotional intelligence in a sport that often suppresses emotions.

He introduces creative methods, like rhythmic drumming, to teach mindfulness and presence.

The conversation also touches on the vital role parents play in supporting their children's emotional development, encouraging them to practice mindfulness themselves.

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- Riley Cote shares his journey from youth hockey to the NHL, highlighting parental support and joy in the game.

•Discussion on the pressure for young players to pursue elite paths, comparing it to gymnastics, and its impact on enjoying hockey.

•Emphasis on playing for fun and the negative effects of parental pressure.

•Lee shares a personal story about his son’s excitement, stressing the importance of joy in sports.

•Riley discusses his work at Philadelphia Hockey Academy, focusing on mindfulness and separating the human from the athlete.

•Mental fitness in hockey is explored, with Riley emphasizing mindfulness and self-regulation for players and parents.

•Mindfulness is explained as being present, with simple practices for kids.

•The role of parents in modeling mindfulness and its impact on children is highlighted.

•Mike questions the lack of mental fitness focus in hockey, and Riley shares challenges in integrating it into programs.

•Riley provides examples of improved focus and self-regulation in young players through mindfulness, including rhythmic drumming.

•The importance of teaching kids to manage emotions constructively is emphasized.

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00:00:00 Shifting Perspectives in Youth Hockey Development

00:01:06 Riley Cote's Journey to the NHL

00:15:20 Mindfulness and Focus Training for Young Athletes

00:18:40 The Joy of Playing Hockey Without Pressure

00:20:16 Rhythmic Mindfulness and ADHD

00:28:05 Mindfulness in Hockey Training

00:37:16 Integrating Mental Training in Sports

00:43:56 The Power of Acknowledging Emotions

00:49:50 The Role of Arts in Personal Development