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Our Kids Play Hockey: The Secret To Hockey Success? Patience (with Nhl Veteran Mike Knuble)

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What if everything youve been told about youth hockey development is wrong?This week, were joined by 1,000+ game NHL veteran Mike Knublea Stanley Cup Champion who built his career the hard way: through patience, persistence, and learning how to truly play the game.From growing up in Michigan with no elite path to earning his way through college, the minors, and eventually becoming a 30-goal scorer in the NHL, Mike shares what actually matters in developmentand what families are getting completely backwards. Inside this episode:Why there is NO single path in hockey (and why thats a good thing)The truth about early success vs long-term developmentWhat NHL players REALLY learn from championship culturesWhy patience is the most importantand most ignoredskillHow youth players can instantly improve by doing one simple thing: go to the netWhat parents should focus on at ages 812 (hint: its not stats or rankings) Plus, Mike shares powerful insights as both:A former NHL playerA coachAnd a hockey parent raising two high-level playersThis is one of those episodes every hockey family needs to hear. Key Takeaways:Your path is never done even in the NHL.If youre good enough, youll be found.The goal is simplethe puck has to go to the net. So why arent players there?Dont try to control the journey. Let your player grow into it. Whether your child is just starting out or chasing higher levels, this episode will help you reset your mindset and focus on what really matters. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog:The Truth About Youth Hockey Development (From NHL Veteran Mike Knuble) Listen now and take a deep breathdevelopment is a long game.#OurKidsPlayHockey #YouthHockey #HockeyDevelopment #HockeyParents #MikeKnuble #HockeyCoaching #LongTermDevelopment #HockeyLife #PlayerDevelopment #HockeyJourneyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace.And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Our Girls Play Hockey: Inside The Olympic Experience & More With Hayley Scamurra (part 2)

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You asked. We delivered. The Mailbag Episode is BACK and this one is packed with real answers from a real pro.In this special Q&A episode of Our Girls Play Hockey, Hayley Scamurra sits down with Lee and Mike to answer YOUR biggest questions about what it actually takes to play hockey at the highest level.From game day meals to mental prep, training habits to scoring goals nothing is off limits. And the best part? These are the exact questions coming from young players just like you.Whether you're a player, parent, or coach, this episode is loaded with insight you can use right away. What Youll Learn in This Episode: What a pro hockey player REALLY eats on game day How to prepare mentally before stepping on the ice The secret to getting faster (on and off the ice) Where most goals actually come from (this might surprise you) Why small area games are a pro favorite The truth about burnout and why taking breaks matters Boys vs. girls hockey: how to make the right choice What its REALLY like to be a professional hockey player A Powerful Takeaway:Sometimes the most valuable player isnt the one scoring goals its the one creating them. Whether you're chasing goals, building confidence, or just trying to fall in love with the game again this episode is for you. Got a question for the next mailbag? Send it in you might be featured!#OurGirlsPlayHockey #HockeyTraining #YouthHockey #GirlsHockey #HockeyParents #HockeyDevelopment #HockeyMindset #TrainLikeAPro #HockeyLife #FemaleAthletesClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace.And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: The Ride To The Rink: The 5 Minute Reset Every Hockey Player Needs (with Nhl Veteran Bobby Ryan)

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Ever walk off the ice feeling like you were either the best player out there or the worst?This week on The Ride to the Rink, were joined by former NHL star Bobby Ryan (800+ NHL games, 2nd overall draft pick) to talk about one of the most important skills young players can develop: how to reflect, reset, and get betterwithout being too hard on yourself.Bobby shares a simple but powerful mindset that every hockey player (and parent) needs to hear. In This Episode:Why youre never as goodor as badas you thinkThe 1 positive, 1 negative reflection methodHow just 35 minutes of quiet time can transform your gameWhy accountability is the key to improvementHow the rink can become your personal sanctuary Whether you had a great game or a tough one, this episode gives you a clear, simple way to reset and move forward with confidence. Parents, this is a great one to listen to with your player on the way to the rink.And playersnext time you step on the ice, remember:You get to be there. Make it count. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: The Simple 5-Minute Hockey Mindset Shift Every Player Needs (Bobby Ryans Advice)# #HockeyMindset #YouthHockey #BobbyRyan #HockeyDevelopment #MentalGame #RideToTheRink #HockeyParents #ConfidenceInSports #HockeyLifeClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace.And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: More Than Goals & Assists: Nhl Veteran Bobby Ryan On Raising Confident Hockey Players

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What if the rink isnt just where kids play but where they feel safest?In this powerful and deeply personal episode, former NHL star Bobby Ryan joins us to share a perspective every hockey parent and coach needs to hear. From a difficult childhood to a 14-year NHL careerand now life as a hockey dadBobby opens up about how the game shaped him, saved him, and continues to guide how he raises his own child today.This conversation goes far beyond goals and assists. Its about identity, pressure, mental health, and the responsibility we all share in creating the right environment for young players. In This Episode, We Cover: Why the rink should be a sanctuary for kids The danger of tying identity to stats and performance What Bobby Ryan does differently as a hockey parent How to talk to kids about mental health and comparison Why effort > talent in youth development The hidden harm of social media in youth sports How coaches can create confidence, not pressure Key TakeawaySuccess in hockey isnt about who scores the mostits about who grows the most. Plus:Bobby shares behind-the-scenes NHL stories, his upcoming international experience representing Team USA again, and why giving back to the game is now his mission.If you're a parent, coach, or young player navigating todays hockey worldthis is an episode you wont want to miss. Listen now, share it with your hockey community, and start building better environments for our kids. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Bobby Ryan on Youth Hockey, Parenting, and Mental Health Have a topic you want us to cover?Reach out anytimewed love to hear from you.#YouthHockey #HockeyParenting #BobbyRyan #MentalHealthInSports #HockeyDevelopment #OurKidsPlayHockey #PositiveCoaching #HockeyLife #SportsParenting #HockeyCommunityClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace.And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Our Kids Play Goalie Estela Vazquez On What It Takes To Be A Young Elite Goalie (at Just 14!)

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What were YOU doing at 14 years old? Because Estela Vazquez was winning GOLD on the international stage.In this inspiring episode of Our Kids Play Goalie, we sit down with Estela Vazquez a rising star goaltender for the Connecticut Junior Rangers, Greenwich Country Day School, and the Puerto Rico Womens National Team .At just 13 years old, Estela stepped onto the international stage in Buenos Aires and walked away as Goaltender of the Tournament, helping Puerto Rico capture gold. But her story goes far beyond the medalThis conversation dives into the mindset, discipline, and maturity it takes to balance elite hockey, school, and life all while staying grounded and driven. In this episode, we cover:What it really takes to succeed as a young goalieHow Estela manages school, travel, and multiple teamsThe mental side of goaltending (and how to stay calm under pressure)Why positive self-talk (lock in) can change your gameThe role of parents, coaches, and teammates in developmentWhy facing adversity (and NOT getting pulled) matters for growthThe importance of dreaming big and working for it every day One of the most powerful takeaways:You always want to think positive when you think negative, it goes bad. Whether you're a goalie, parent, or coach, this episode is packed with real, actionable insight straight from a player living it right now. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: How a 14-Year-Old Goalie Is Redefining Youth Hockey Success | Estela Vazquez Story Loved this episode? Text us, share it with a goalie family, and help grow the next generation of players!#YouthHockey #GoalieLife #HockeyParents #GirlsHockey #MentalToughness #Goaltending #HockeyDevelopment #EliteAthlete #OurKidsPlayHockey #GoalieMindsetClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace.And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: The Ride To The Rink: Nhl Veteran Scott Hartnell On The Mindset That Built A 17 Year Career

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Whats the one thing every young hockey player can control every single day?On this Ride to the Rink, the hosts are joined by 17-year NHL veteran Scott Hartnell, who shares the mindset that helped him build a long, successful NHL career.Growing up as the youngest of three hockey-playing brothers, Hartnell learned early what it meant to compete, battle, and push himself just to keep up. Those backyard games, bumps and bruises, and sibling rivalries helped shape the hardworking style that defined his career.His advice for young players is simplebut incredibly powerful: Be the hardest working player on the ice.Not just during games but especially during practice.Scott explains why the habits you build in practice become the instincts you rely on in games, and why coaches, teammates, and scouts always notice the players who compete the hardest.Whether you're battling in the corner, backchecking, or making the right play on a two-on-one, the effort you put in every day matters. So as you head to the rink today, ask yourself:Are you ready to be the hardest worker out there? In This Episode Kids Will Learn:Why effort can be more important than talentHow growing up with older siblings builds toughnessWhy practice habits shape game performanceWhat NHL coaches really notice about playersHow small moments in practice can lead to big plays in games Scott also suggests something fun:Look up Scott Hartnell highlight videos to see the mix of skill, grit, personality, and hard work that defined his career. And remember, wherever you are in your hockey journeyWe believe in you. And you should too.#RideToTheRink #YouthHockey #HockeyMindset #HockeyWorkEthic #ScottHartnell #HockeyPractice #HockeyDevelopment #HockeyKids #FutureHockeyStarsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace.And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Why Roles Matter In Hockey (and Life) – Featuring Nhl Veteran Scott Hartnell

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Episode Description

What does it really take to make it to the NHLand what lessons can young players and parents learn from the journey?In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Christy Casciano-Burns are joined by 17-year NHL veteran Scott Hartnell. Known for his grit, personality, and relentless work ethic, Hartnell shares stories from growing up as a rink rat in small-town Saskatchewan to becoming a 300-goal scorer with over 1,200 NHL games played.But this conversation goes far beyond NHL highlights.Scott dives deep into the lessons he learned throughout his career from understanding team roles, handling pressure as a teenager in the NHL, dealing with slumps, and why doing the little things (like going to the front of the net) can make all the difference.Now a broadcaster and youth hockey parent himself, Hartnell also shares invaluable insights for parents navigating youth hockey development today.Whether your child is chasing the NHL dream or simply learning to love the game, this episode is packed with wisdom you won't want to miss. Highlights from this episode Growing up a rink rat in small-town Saskatchewan How Scott Hartnell made the NHL at just 18 years old Why understanding your role is critical for success in hockey Advice for players moving up to higher levels of competition The importance of confidence vs. development years in youth hockey Why parents should think carefully about AAA vs. development opportunities How NHL locker rooms build culture and accountability Lessons Hartnell learned from his dads coaching advice What its like transitioning from NHL player to broadcasterYou dont need to be the flashiest player on the ice to succeed. The players who thriveat any levelare the ones who understand their role, work relentlessly, and stay true to who they are. Have questions or topics you'd like us to cover?Email the team: team@ourkidsplayhockey.com#OurKidsPlayHockey #YouthHockey #ScottHartnell #HockeyDevelopment #HockeyParents #HockeyLeadership #NHLVeteran #YouthSports #HockeyPodcast #HockeyLifeClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace.And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Our Girls Play Hockey: Inside The Olympic Experience With Hayley Scamurra (part 1)

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Episode Description

What does it actually feel like to win Olympic gold?In this special Our Girls Play Hockey listener Q&A, Olympic gold medalist Hayley Scamurra pulls back the curtain on the Olympic experience from the electric energy of playing in front of fans to the unforgettable moments inside the Olympic Village.In Part 1 of this two-part series, Hayley joins Lee Elias to answer questions sent in by the audience, teammates, and young players around the hockey world. The result? A behind-the-scenes look at the Olympic journey that most fans never get to hear.Hayley shares her welcome to the Olympics moment, what it was like preparing for the gold medal game, and how the rise of the PWHL has elevated the level of international competition. She also gives us a glimpse of life inside the Olympic Village including unexpected celebrity encounters, unforgettable celebrations, and what it really means to represent your country on the biggest stage in sports.Youll also hear heartfelt moments about inspiring the next generation of girls in hockey and the advice Hayley gives young players chasing the same dream. Whether you're a player, parent, coach, or fan of the womens game, this episode brings you inside the Olympic experience like never before. In This Episode We Discuss: Hayleys welcome to the Olympics moment in front of fans How the PWHL has raised the level of Olympic competition Preparing mentally for the Olympic gold medal game The atmosphere of playing in front of a global audience What life is really like inside the Olympic Village Meeting celebrities like Snoop Dogg and the Kelce family The wild amount of gear Olympic athletes receive The emotional high of winning a gold medal Hayleys advice for young girls dreaming of playing in the PWHL Part 2 of this Olympic Q&A is coming soon, where Hayley answers even more listener questions about the tournament, the future of womens hockey, and her journey through the sport.If you love the growth of girls hockey and want a true insider perspective, this is an episode you wont want to miss. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Inside the OlympClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace.And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: The Ride To The Rink: Hockey Tryout Tips Preparation, Mindset, And Standing Out The Right Way

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Episode Description

Heading to a hockey tryout or evaluation? Take a deep breath this Ride to the Rink is exactly what you need to hear.Evaluations can bring out a lot of emotions: excitement, nerves, pressure, and sometimes even fear. But the truth is, a great tryout isnt about doing something flashy or trying to be someone youre not. Its about preparation, mindset, and showing coaches the best version of YOU.In this episode of The Ride to the Rink, the guys break down how young hockey players should approach tryouts from the days leading up to the evaluation, to how you carry yourself on the ice, and even how you handle the results afterward.The biggest lesson? Control what you can control: your effort, your attitude, your preparation, and your response to adversity. Coaches notice those things more than any fancy move.And remember one evaluation will never define your hockey journey. In This Episode, We Talk About:How to prepare 2448 hours before a tryoutThe simple preparation mistakes that can hurt players at evaluationsThe difference between motivation and anxietyWhy trying to stand out the wrong way can backfireThe importance of playing your own gameWhy versatility (not just one position) can impress coachesWhat coaches really notice when players make mistakesThe powerful story of a player who earned a roster spot through pure effortHow to respond if you dont make the team you hoped forWhy your reaction to results says more about you than the tryout itselfOne of the biggest takeaways from this episode:A player who works hard, stays positive, and keeps growing will always stand out over time. Tryouts are just one moment your attitude and effort over the long run are what truly define you.So whether you're heading into a big evaluation today or just thinking about the next season ahead, remember why you started playing in the first place. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: The Right Mindset for Hockey Tryouts and EvaluationsHave fun. Skate hard. And believe in yourself.#TheRideToTheRink #YouthHockey #HockeyTryouts #HockeyMindset #YouthSports #HockeyDevelopment #HockeyPaClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace.And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Our Girls Play Hockey: Pro Hockey Secrets For Young Players | Mailbag With Hayley Scamurra (part 2)

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Episode Description

You asked and the mailbag is back!In this special Our Girls Play Hockey Mailbag Episode, hosts Lee and Mike sit down with professional hockey player Hayley Scamurra to answer rapid-fire questions straight from young players, parents, and coaches around the hockey world.From game-day meals and pregame routines to scoring goals, getting faster, and handling the fear of missing out during the offseason, Hayley shares real insight into what life looks like as a pro and what young athletes can learn from it.Along the way, the crew dives into topics like why most goals come from the dirty areas in front of the net, why taking breaks from hockey is essential for development, and how the little details like creating time and space for teammates make players truly valuable.Whether you're a young player dreaming of the pros, a parent navigating development decisions, or a coach looking for insight from the highest levels of the game, this episode delivers practical advice straight from the source. Highlights from This Episode What Hayley Scamurra actually eats on game day How pro players mentally prepare before hitting the ice Why speed is the most important skill in hockey Where most goals really come from (hint: its not highlight-reel shots) The underrated skill of creating time and space for teammates Why playing multiple sports helps long-term development Why even pro players believe kids need breaks from hockey What life is like traveling internationally as a professional hockey player Why team bonding and road trips matter more than you think Have a question for the next mailbag? Email the team at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com or use the link in the show description to send your question. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: The Mailbag Episode Every Young Hockey Player Should Hear: Hayley Scamurra Answers Youth Hockey Questions#OurGirlsPlayHockey #GirlsHockey #YouthHockey #HockeyDevelopment #WomenInSports #HayleyScamurra #HockeyParents #HockeyTraining #GirlsInSportsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace.And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: The Tryout Survival Guide For Hockey Parents And Players

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Episode Description

Hockey tryout season is here and for many families, that means nerves, pressure, and a lot of unanswered questions.What are coaches actually looking for? How are teams really selected? And what should parents and players focus on when the stakes feel high?In this annual Our Kids Play Hockey Tryout Episode, hosts Lee Elias, Christie Casciano-Burns, and Mike Bonelli break down the reality of youth hockey evaluations from both the parent perspective and the coachs perspective.This episode takes you behind the scenes of team selection, giving families practical advice on how to navigate tryout season with the right mindset.Spoiler alert: Its not just about goals and assists.The hosts dive into what coaches truly value at the youth level including attitude, work ethic, teamwork, and development potential and why the team your child makes should be based on where theyll grow the most, not just the letters on the jersey.They also tackle some of the biggest misconceptions around youth hockey tryouts, including why most coaches already have a good sense of players long before evaluations begin.Most importantly, this conversation reminds parents and players that tryouts are just one moment in a long hockey journey. In This Episode, We Cover:Why tryouts shouldnt define your players hockey futureThe biggest mistakes parents make during evaluation seasonWhat coaches are actually evaluating at the 10U levelWhy development matters more than team labelsHow coaches think about building a balanced rosterThe importance of environment, attitude, and team cultureWhat players should focus on to stand out for the right reasonsHow parents can support their kids without adding pressure The Message for PlayersBe the hardest worker on the ice.Thats advice shared by Olympian Hayley Scamurra and echoed throughout this episode. Effort, attitude, and love for the game are the things coaches notice most. The Message for ParentsBefore your child walks into tryouts, remember the three things they really need to hear: I love you no matter what happens out there. I love watching you play. Work hard, have fun, aClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace.And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: The Ride To The Rink: How To Stand Out Before Pre Skates, Id Skates, & Tryouts

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Episode Description

Think tryouts start on evaluation day? Think again.If youre heading to a pre-skate or ID skate, this episode is your mindset reset before you walk through those rink doors.Lee and Mike break down what these tryout before the tryout skates really are and more importantly, how YOU should approach them. Because heres the truth: its not just about what you do on the ice its who you are from the parking lot to the final whistle.In this episode, we talk about: What coaches are really noticing at ID skates Why carrying your own bag matters more than you think The power of first impressions (and why you dont get a second one) How to handle nerves without adding pressure Why one skate wont define your hockey career The importance of knowing your strengths and owning themMost importantly?Being a great hockey player starts with being a great person. Character shines through on good days and bad ones. And no single skate will determine your future but your habits will.So if you're on the ride to the rink right now, take a breath.Work hard.Be yourself.Have fun.We believe in you. You should too. Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: The Pre-Skate Mindset: How to Stand Out Before Tryouts Even Begin#TheRideToTheRink #HockeyMindset #YouthHockey #HockeyTryouts #IDSkate #PreSkate #HockeyCharacter #HockeyDevelopment #HockeyParents #HockeyLifeClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace.And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Pre Skates & Id Skates Explained: What Parents Need To Know Before Tryouts

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Episode Description

ID skates. Pre-skates. Early evaluations. Winter select teams. If youre a hockey parent right now, your inbox is probably full and your anxiety might be too.So what are ID skates really? Are they opportunities or just early tryouts in disguise?In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee and Mike break down the real story behind pre-skates and ID skates what they mean, when they make sense, and when parents need to take a deep breath and relax.Because heres the truth:Most teams already have 8590% of their roster projected.Most ID skates are not magic auditions.And the pressure were putting on kids? Its often way too much. Inside this episode:What ID skates are actually being used forWhen attending one makes sense (and when it doesnt)The difference between a coach and a salesmanWhy shopping around has consequencesTier 1 vs Tier 2: how to evaluate a moveWhy being on a B team is NOT a failureHow to talk to your child before an evaluationAnd why calm parents raise confident players Buyer beware: If youre being yesd to death, promised captaincy, or guaranteed a top line thats not development thats sales.Most importantly, this episode is about perspective.Youth hockey is a journey.ID skates are a moment.Dont let a moment define the journey.Have thoughts on this one? We want to hear them. Email us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com and tell us whats happening in your rink. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: The Truth About Hockey ID Skates: A Parents Guide to Pre-Skates & TryoutsEnjoy evaluation season and remember to breathe. #OurKidsPlayHockey #YouthHockey #HockeyParents #HockeyTryouts #IDSkates #HockeyDevelopment #Tier1Hockey #Tier2Hockey #HockeyCulture #ParentingInSportsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace.And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Olympic Gold: Hayley Scamurra And Team Usa’s Historic Run | 2026 Women’s Ice Hockey

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She wrote it on the whiteboard for a year: I am a gold medalist. Now its real.In this unforgettable crossover episode of Our Kids Play Hockey and Our Girls Play Hockey, Olympic Gold Medalist Hayley Scamurra joins us fresh off Team USAs historic championship run and yes shes still wearing the medal.Seven games. Seven wins. Two goals in the opener. A perfect penalty kill. A 21 overtime thriller against Canada. And the most-watched womens hockey game in history.This wasnt just a win. This was a moment.Hayley takes us inside the locker room before overtime, the emotional release when the golden goal hit the back of the net, and what it felt like to step over the boards and jump into history.We talk about: Manifestation and mindset The leadership of Hillary Knight Playing the 13th forward role to perfection A 100% penalty kill (yes, really) The most dominant Olympic performance ever? The explosion of womens hockey Coaching lessons youth coaches can apply tomorrow Meeting Snoop (multiple times)Hayley also opens up about the sacrifices, the lonely moments growing up, and what holding that gold medal truly represents.This episode isnt just about winning.Its about belief.Its about preparation.Its about team culture.And its about what happens when womens hockey takes center stage and the world finally watches. Listen now, then share it with a young player who needs to hear it. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: From Whiteboard Words to Olympic Gold: Hayley Scamurras Historic MomentBecause this gold medal belongs to more than just one team. Thank you, Hayley. Thank you, Team USA.The ripple effect has already begun.#OurKidsPlayHockey #OurGirlsPlayHockey #HayleyScamurra #TeamUSA #OlympicGold #WomensHockey #GirlsHockey #Manifestation #HockeyMindset #YouthHockey #HockeyParents #GoldMedalMomentClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit NHL.SenseArena.com/OKPH for their lowest price of the season and use code OKPH to get $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Giveaway Puck Hog 3 Is Here! Christie Casciano Burns’ Trophy Thief Mystery

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GIVEAWAY ALERT, Hockey Families! Something BIG just dropped in the Our Kids Play Hockey world and were celebrating the best way we know how by giving back to YOU.Christie Casciano-Burns award-winning journalist, USA Hockey Magazine columnist, and the original inspiration behind this podcast has officially released Puck Hog 3: Trophy Thief Mystery and were giving away FIVE copies!In this special edition episode, we dive into: The mystery behind the missing Lake Placid Invitational Trophy Why hockey books matter more than medals The life lessons woven into the Puck Hog series teamwork, empathy, compassion & celebrating differences The fun rivalry between hockey players and figure skaters The heart behind the hand-drawn illustrations And exciting news about worldwide distribution through Globe Pequot & Simon & SchusterIf youve got a hockey-loving kid who doesnt love reading this might just be the book that changes that.And yes its a true mystery. Were not giving away the ending. Want to win a copy? Its simple: Like Our Kids Play Hockey Tag a friend Share the postWell select FIVE winners!Because at the end of the day, hockey is about more than trophies. Its about stories, relationships, and the lessons our kids carry long after the final buzzer.Grab your copy of Puck Hog 3: Trophy Thief Mystery wherever books are sold and good luck in the giveaway!Skate hard. Have fun. And keep building great hockey humans. #OurKidsPlayHockey #PuckHog3 #YouthHockey #HockeyParents #HockeyBooks #ChristieCascianoBurns #HockeyFamily #YouthSports #HockeyLife #BookGiveawayClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit NHL.SenseArena.com/OKPH for their lowest price of the season and use code OKPH to get $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: The Ride To The Rink: A Parent’s Guide To Hockey Evals And Team Decisions

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Parents this ones for you. Tryout season is here. Emotions are high. FOMO is real. And decisions made right now can shape your childs hockey journey for years to come.In this special Parent Edition of The Ride to the Rink, Lee and Mike Bonelli flip the script and ask the kids to turn to YOU and say: Are you listening?Because when it comes to hockey evals, team jumping, chasing elite labels, and negotiating during tryouts parents matter more than anyone.Mike brings the perspective of a hockey director and lays it out clearly:Stop chasing what isnt realistic right now.Stop negotiating like its Division I athletics.Start focusing on environment, development, and long-term growth.This episode is about stepping back, thinking clearly, and choosing the right path not the flashy one. In This Episode:Why chasing AAA or the winning team can backfireThe danger of team-hopping and how coaches really see itThe right (and wrong) way to talk to directors during tryoutsWhy development beats records every timeHow adversity years may actually help your player moreEliminating stress by knowing who you are as a hockey family The goal isnt to win the tryout season. The goal is to build a healthy, happy, developing hockey player.Parents, take a breath. Think. Make a decision you wont regret in six months.And kids thanks for making sure they listened We believe in you. You should too. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog:Youth Hockey Tryouts: Dont Let Emotions Make the Decision#YouthHockey #HockeyParents #HockeyTryouts #HockeyDevelopment #ParentingInSports #AAAYouthHockey #HockeyEvals #TheRideToTheRinkClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit NHL.SenseArena.com/OKPH for their lowest price of the season and use code OKPH to get $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Habits Of Hockey: Building Character, Discipline & Elite Development With Founder Jimmy Law

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Is your child developing as a hockey player or just playing more hockey?In this powerful episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee and Mike sit down with Jimmy Law, Director of Sports Performance at TPH Academy and founder of Habits of Hockey, to unpack what real development looks like.Spoiler alert: Its not more ice time.Jimmy shares his journey from first-generation roller hockey player to shaping hundreds of student-athletes in a blended academic and hockey development model built around study, train, and play. Together, the guys dig into the missing piece in youth hockey today character. Inside this episode:Why talent alone wont get your child to the next levelThe six core habits that separate elite performers from average playersWhat junior and college scouts REALLY ask about your kidWhy being present is a competitive advantageHow parents can support without burning kids outWhat makes a great coach (and why its not just hockey IQ)The truth about hockey academies and who theyre really forJimmy breaks down his six core athlete values work ethic, accountability, preparation, consistency, focus, and character and explains why these habits matter more than your childs skating stride.This conversation isnt just about building better hockey players.Its about building better people.And in todays hockey world? Thats the real separator. If youre a parent wondering how to support without overstepping A coach trying to elevate your impact Or a player serious about leveling upThis ones packed with gold.Lets keep developing the person behind the jersey. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Why Talent Isnt Enough in Youth Hockey with Jimmy Law#OurKidsPlayHockey #YouthHockeyDevelopment #HockeyMindset #HockeyParenting #TPHAcademy #HabitsOfHockey #HockeyCharacter #RaisingAthletes #HockeyTraining #HockeyLeadershipClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit NHL.SenseArena.com/OKPH for their lowest price of the season and use code OKPH to get $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: The Ride To The Rink: Street Hockey Skills That Build Nhl Dreams With Ryan Carter

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What if the most important hockey development tool isnt a skills coach but a backyard rink?This week on The Ride to the Rink, Lee and Mike are joined by Stanley Cup Finalist, Team USA alum, and all-around great human Ryan Carter and hes taking us back to where it all started.Not in a fancy arena.Not at an elite showcase.But on a Minnesota cul-de-sac with a tennis ball.Ryan shares how street hockey, outdoor rinks, and unstructured play shaped his hands, his hockey IQ, his toughness and most importantly his love for the game. In this episode, we talk about: Why outdoor hockey is the real-life YouTube for skill development How free play builds creativity you wont learn in structured practice The moment Ryan realized he could compete with older players Why hockey development is a slow cooker, not a microwave Getting placed on NHL waivers and how it led to a Stanley Cup Final run How to keep your love for hockey alive at every stageRyans message to kids is powerful:Youre never out of it. Keep playing. Keep loving it. The game will give back what you put in.Parents this ones a reminder that sometimes the best development happens when you just drop them off at the rink with a lunch pail and let them play. Listen in, then grab your stick and go create your own highlight reel outside.Because wherever you are on your journey we believe in you. You should too.#RideToTheRink #RyanCarter #OutdoorHockey #HockeyDevelopment #YouthHockey #StreetHockey #BackyardRink #HockeyMindset #StanleyCupFinal #LoveTheGameClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit NHL.SenseArena.com/OKPH for their lowest price of the season and use code OKPH to get $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: The Ride To The Rink: Hockey Isn’t Your Identity: A Powerful Message From Olympian Haley Winn

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What would an Olympian tell her 10-year-old self?On this episode of The Ride to the Rink, we get something special two Olympians talking directly to young hockey players.Haley Winn joins Hayley Scamurra, Lee Elias, and Mike Bonelli for a powerful conversation about confidence, development, rest, and what really matters if you dream of playing at the highest level.If you're a young player chasing big goals or a parent supporting one this episode is your reminder that the journey matters just as much as the destination. In this episode, Haley shares:Why having fun is the foundation of long-term successThe mindset shift that changed her career: Hockey isnt your identity.How confidence fuels developmentWhy taking 3 days off might actually make you betterThe truth about rest, recovery, and playing the long game One of the most powerful moments? Haley explaining how she used to believe that if she wasnt thinking about hockey 24/7, she wouldnt make it and how learning to step away actually made her stronger.This ones for:The 10-year-old who wants to make the national teamThe teenager scared to take a day offThe player who ties their self-worth to their last gameRemember a bad game doesnt mean youre a bad player. And it definitely doesnt mean youre a bad person. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: What Would an Olympian Tell Her 10-Year-Old Self? With Haley Winn Hit play, take a breath, and enjoy the ride.#TheRideToTheRink #OurKidsPlayHockey #HaleyWinn #HayleyScamurra #GirlsHockey #YouthHockeyDevelopment #HockeyMindset #RestAndRecovery #HockeyConfidence #LongTermAthleteDevelopmentClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit NHL.SenseArena.com/OKPH for their lowest price of the season and use code OKPH to get $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey: Slow Cooker Development: Ryan Carter’s Nhl Journey & What Youth Hockey Parents Must Know

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What if chasing the best team is actually holding your player back?This week on Our Kids Play Hockey, we sit down with former NHL forward and Stanley Cup champion Ryan Carter to unpack the truth about youth hockey development and why the slow cooker might beat the instant pot every time.From growing up in White Bear Lake, Minnesota to carving out a 10-year NHL career (after going undrafted), Ryan shares the mindset shifts, parenting lessons, and culture-building philosophies that shaped his journey and how hes now passing them on through broadcasting and ETS Performance.This is an episode every hockey parent and player needs to hear. Inside This Episode: Why development should be a crock pot, not an instant pot The real difference between good players and NHL players Why Plan B might secretly sabotage Plan A The power of environment in player development What parents should (and shouldnt) say in the car after games Why belief sets your ceiling and how to raise it The importance of team-first thinking (high tide raises all ships)Ryan also opens up about:Playing alongside legends like Teemu SelnneHis first NHL game nerves in the Western Conference FinalsThe surprising role of luck and stick-to-itiveness in making the NHLWhy confidence and belonging are everything at the highest levelThis conversation is honest, practical, and deeply encouraging. Whether your player is on the A team, B team, or just starting out this episode will reframe how you think about development. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Slow Cooker Development: What Ryan Carters NHL Journey Teaches Hockey Families Got questions? Email us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com Check out our childrens book When Hockey Stops at WhenHockeyStops.comEnjoy your hockey. Enjoy your day. And remember development is a marathon, not a sprint.#OurKidsPlayHockey #YouthHockeyDevelopment #HockeyParenting #RyanCarter #NHLJourney #HockeyMindset #TeamCulture #ResilientAthletes #SlowCookerDevelopmentClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit NHL.SenseArena.com/OKPH for their lowest price of the season and use code OKPH to get $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Website: Our Kids Play Hockey