Our Kids Play Hockey

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 create healthy phone routines, establish boundaries, and balance par...

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 corr...

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...

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, an imaginary line from the net to the top of the circles, and its role in scoring and goalten...

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 emp...

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 as one of the greatest in sports. Learn how the 1998 Olympic gold medal ignited...

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...

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,...

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...

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 nervous wreck to finding peace at the rink. Learn how to support your young athlete, und...

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...

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 athletes. - Kim McCullough highlights the social aspect as a key difference between girl...

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 ESPN veteran. Together, they interview Keith Jones, President of the Philadelphia Flyers, discussing the intr...

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 w...

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...

Are you already feeling the pressure of the season? This episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey" offers essential tips to help parents manage anxiety and enjoy the game. Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli discuss the common tendency of parents to hyper-focus on their own child, often leading to unnecessary stress. They emphasize the importance of viewing the game from a broader perspective, understand...

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 technolo...

Dive into our essential guide to college hockey recruiting with hosts Lee MJ Elias, Mike Bonelli, Christie Casciano Burns, and Sheri Hudspeth in this episode of "Our Girls Play Hockey." Joined by Megan Myers, assistant coach for the Boston University women's ice hockey team, the discussion covers everything from the ideal age to start thinking about college hockey to crafting the pe...

Do you have team building built into your practice plans this season? Hosts Lee MJ Elias and Mike Bonelli dive into the importance of team building in youth hockey. They share practical tips and fun exercises to help coaches and parents create a tight-knit team. From trust falls to tic-tac-toe with hockey sticks, they show how just 20 minutes a week can make a big difference. Whether your team is...

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...

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. T...

What are the key questions every young hockey player should ask to elevate their game and personal growth? Hosts Lee MJ Elias and Mike Bonelli explore eleven essential questions designed to help players, coaches, and parents foster development throughout the season. From turning problems into opportunities to understanding the importance of being a thoughtful listener, this episode offers valuable...

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...

In this episode of Our Girls Play Hockey , we dive deep into five common myths about women’s hockey with our expert guest, Hannah Beckman. Hannah, a skater for the Puerto Rican National Ice Hockey Team and recent graduate from Utica University, where she served as Director of Operations for their NCAA women’s program, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the conversation. Together, we di...

In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey , we’re thrilled to welcome back Coach Pete Whitney to dive deep into the world of NCAA coaching. Whether you’re an aspiring coach, a parent, or simply curious about what it takes to climb the coaching ladder in college hockey, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Key Points Discussed: 1. Passion and Mentality: •The mindset required to transition f...