From the NHL to Youth Rinks: Jack Han on the Future of Player Development

Oct 11, 2025

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🎧 What really separates players who make it to the next level from those who don’t? This week, we welcome back Jack Han — former Toronto Maple Leafs staff member, player development consultant, and author of the Hockey Tactics Newsletter — to dive deep into the real keys to long-term hockey success.

Jack brings years of experience working with players from minor hockey to the NHL, and in this conversation he breaks down:

✨ Why early success at 14 doesn’t guarantee a hockey career
✨ The real ROI of youth hockey (hint: it’s bigger than scholarships)
✨ How coaches can design practices that actually build hockey IQ
✨ Why intention matters — for both players and coaches
✨ What parents should (and shouldn’t) say about their child’s hockey journey

Jack also shares eye-opening lessons from his time in the NHL and his work with top prospects, as well as practical advice that every parent and coach can use right away.

This isn’t just about making it to the pros — it’s about helping kids love the game, grow as people, and find their path in hockey. 🏒

👉 Don’t miss this one — and be sure to check out Jack’s Hockey Tactics Newsletter for even more resources on practice planning and player development.

📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: From Maple Leafs Development to Youth Rinks: Jack Han How to Build Hockey IQ in Kids

#YouthHockey #HockeyDevelopment #HockeyIQ #HockeyParents #CoachingHockey #JackHan #OurKidsPlayHockey

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