Our Kids Play Hockey

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, Alberts reveals the secret sauce: a blend of play, persistence, and the pivotal moments that shape...

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 and fostering team synergy, whether you're in the crease or skating in front....

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 to how to stay cool, calm, and collected in the crease. What's In...

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 will learn the importance of setting and accomplishing personal goals, as...

When the summer sun hits, every hockey parent starts facing the ultimate power play - selecting the perfect hockey camp for their young athlete. Andrew's heartfelt letter kicks off our heartfelt discussion on aligning camp choice with your child's passion and developmental stage. We lace up and glide through the myriad of options from skills camps to day camps, sharing how the right mix...

In this episode of "The Ride to the Rink," host Lee Elias offers a deep dive into the mental and strategic aspects essential for hockey players and coaches as they navigate the intense periods of playoffs, big games, and tryouts. Lee shares his insights on the dynamics of winning and losing, emphasizing the importance of embracing losses as learning opportunities to achieve greater succe...

As youth hockey tryouts loom on the horizon, the anticipation and nerves can feel overwhelming for players and parents alike. In this insightful episode, our seasoned hosts Lee Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli dive into the heart of youth hockey's "March Madness," offering a wealth of advice on how to approach tryouts with a winning mindset. What You'll Learn: S...

On this week's episode of The Ride To The Rink with host Lee MJ Elias, we explore Wayne Gretzky's first NHL level encounter with championship grit and what it truly takes to win when it matters most. This episode is a treasure trove for athletes, coaches, and fans, packed with strategies, historical insights, and the mental toughness required for playoff success. Key Highlights: Gretzky&...

In this edition of Our Kids Play Hockey, we dive deep into the world of youth hockey development with Peter Robinson who is the Director of Youth Hockey Development for the Washington Capitals. With a career spanning 17 seasons with the Capitals, Peter shares his journey from a youth hockey player in Maryland to shaping the future of the sport in the DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia) area. Key Hi...

Welcome to this week's episode of "The Ride To The Rink," where we dive deep into the essential skills that make a well-rounded hockey player. Today, we're shifting the spotlight to a skill that often doesn't get as much glory as goal-scoring but is equally critical to the game's success: passing. Episode Highlights: The Importance of Passing: We kick off the episode...

In this episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," we have the privilege of welcoming John Buccigross, a renowned figure in ESPN's hockey coverage and a passionate advocate for the sport. Known for his in-depth knowledge and love for hockey, Buccigross shares his journey as a hockey dad, broadcaster, and advocate for youth and college hockey. Key Highlights: Buccigross's Hockey Journey...

In this week's episode of "The Ride to the Rink," our hosts Lee, Mike, and Christie dive into the crucial phase of the hockey season where the weather starts to warm up, and distractions abound. They discuss the importance of commitment to hockey, balancing multiple sports, and strategies for staying focused both on and off the ice. Key Highlights: Commitment to Hockey: The hosts em...

Chase Barud from Ice Warehouse joins Mike, Christie and Lee this week on Our Kids Play Hockey to arm you with the insider knowledge you need for your next hockey gear shopping adventure. Chase is here as our guide, drawing back the curtain on what it truly means to select equipment that amplifies your game without succumbing to the hype of the latest and greatest. As we navigate the realm of hocke...

This week on The Ride To The Rink, Christie recounts the laughter-filled corridors of hotels during travel tournaments. She shares how young athletes carry their team's reputation with every sprint down the hall and every prank gone sideways. Her tales of camaraderie and the occasional hotel mishap serve as a reminder that respect and sportsmanship create the most indelible impressions.  Clic...

This week's episode of Our Kids Play Hockey covers a few topics sent into us asking about travel time and how you know its too much, and the correct way to solve some team-level discipline issues! Tune in as Lee, Christie, and Mike share their expertise and experience with both questions. They truly are the "Dear Abby" of the youth hockey world! We love to help answer your questions...

Not every hockey journey looks the same, but we should be able to celebrate them all. Lee shares his own journey on this episode of The Ride To The Rink and reminds us that we should believe in ourselves regardless of what our journey looks like! Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team! Keep your player sharp this summer with NHL Sense Arena. Save $25 on an annual plan with code OKPH at hockey...

In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, we're joined by Tom and Ellen Atkinson, the parents of NHL star Cam Atkinson and four brothers who all played youth hockey. Their journey is a compelling tale of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of a family dream, offering a unique window into the life of a dedicated hockey family. The Atkinson’s discuss the complexities of managing multiple hockey sch...

Mid-January marks a crucial turning point in the hockey season, and feelings of exhaustion may be creeping in. But with the right mindset, this time can also ignite a renewed passion for the game. Listen in for some strategies to help you stay connected to your love for hockey and make the most of the season's final stretch. We'll look at conducting a personal review, setting mental stru...

In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, hosts Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli delve into the emotional aspects of youth hockey coaching. They discuss the important role coaches play in not only teaching the game but also in shaping young lives. The episode extends beyond game tactics and drills, offering a deeper look into the emotional investment and patience required in coaching youth sports. Lee an...

On this episode of The Ride to the Rink, Lee dives into the critical role of goal setting in both hockey and life. Lee shares insights from his own experiences, demonstrating how setting specific, written goals has led to real achievements. We discuss the importance of having a clear vision and the ability to adapt your goals as you grow. This episode is a straightforward guide on how to effective...

How do you help young hockey players step out of their comfort zones and grow both on and off the ice? This week's conversation centers on practical advice for parents, coaches, and mentors, focusing on building resilience, creativity, and courage in young athletes. We dive into the importance of creating a supportive environment where mistakes are part of the learning process. Our discussion...

Ever wondered how the line between confidence and arrogance can make or break a young hockey player's career? Join Mike as he helps us navigate the delicate dance of cultivating a healthy ego in youth hockey. We're not just talking about puffing chests and swagger—there's an art to balancing self-assurance with humility, and it's crucial for players who want to shine individual...

As the festive lights twinkle and the ice glistens Lee, Christie, and Mike are wrapping up the year with a heartfelt thank you to our hockey family. We're toasting to the incredible milestones we've reached together. In this special holiday episode, we're sharing our gratitude and reflecting on the connections made, the stories shared, and the shared passion for the puck that bonds...

Join us this week as we celebrate the year's end with heartfelt gratitude. The final episode of 2023 draws the curtain on a year of conversations that have been listened to around the world from Toronto to Nepal, uniting our hockey family across the globe.  We revisit the standout moments that shaped our year, from Tim Cook's ethical quandaries in youth sports coaching to Dr. Alicia Nase...

Have a very happy holiday and make sure to enjoy yourself to the fullest! Take the time to spend with those you care about, and recharge as we head into the new year. From the entire Our Kids Play Hockey Network family, we're wishing you peace, joy, and a festive season that scores more memories than a championship game! Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team! Keep your player sharp this...