Our Kids Play Hockey

What separates good players from great ones? It’s not talent — it’s work ethic. In this inspiring episode of The Ride To The Rink, Lee and Mike sit down with Riley Armstrong, NHL Director of Player Development, to talk about what it really takes to level up your game — on and off the ice.From the long days at the rink to the unseen sacrifices parents make, Riley shares how NHL pros push through pain, fatigue, and setbacks — and how young players can learn to bring that same 100% effort every day.🎯 Highlights:The truth about hard work — and why your parents’ effort deserves yours in returnHow to avoid the “class clown trap” and surround yourself with teammates who lift you upWhat NHL players do when they don’t feel 100% — and why they still show upWhy loving the game is the #1 ingredient for long-term successThe power of car rides, family time, and the memories that make the hockey journey specialWhether you’re a player, parent, or coach, this episode will remind you that showing up with heart matters more than any stat on the scoresheet.👉 Tune in, take notes, and remember — the game gives back to those who love it. #TheRideToTheRink #OurKidsPlayHockey #RileyArmstrong #NHLDevelopment #YouthHockey #WorkEthic #HockeyParents #HockeyMotivation #HockeyMindset #SkateHardClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒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

🏒 Feeling overwhelmed on the ice? PWHL stars Hayley Scamurra and Gabbie Hughes join "The Ride to the Rink" to share game-changing strategies for managing those big hockey emotions. From breathing techniques to teammate support, this episode is packed with practical advice to help young players stay cool under pressure.We dive into the mental game, offering insights that'll transform how you approach those tough moments. Whether you're battling negative self-talk or struggling to stay present during intense games, these pro tips will elevate your mental game and boost your on-ice performance.Key Takeaways:• Breathe deep and tap a teammate — instant calm in the storm• Shift focus from personal mistakes to teammates' wins• Master the art of being an awesome teammate (no talent required!)• Ground yourself with simple finger-counting and breathing exercises• Develop emotional awareness for success on and off the iceRemember, hockey's about more than just scoring goals — it's about growth, teamwork, and finding joy in every shift. So next time you're heading to the rink, ask yourself: "Why do I love this game?" That passion is your secret weapon against any challenge the ice throws your way.Ready to level up your mental game? 🎧 Tune in now and transform those big feelings into your biggest strengths!📖 Want a written version of this episode you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Handling Big Feelings on the Ice: Advice for Young Hockey Players#TheRideToTheRink #YouthHockey #MentalGame #PWHLStars #HockeyMotivationClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒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

🎙️ Ever wonder what “player development” really means — beyond the buzzword?This week on Our Kids Play Hockey, we sit down with Riley Armstrong, the Director of Player Development for the Philadelphia Flyers, to talk about how great players are truly made — from youth hockey to the pros.Riley’s journey is one few can replicate: from figure skating lessons taught by his mom in Saskatchewan to an NHL coaching role recommended personally by Flyers GM Danny Brière. His story is a masterclass in patience, precision, and purpose.💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:Why figure skating (yes, figure skating!) builds elite skaters and confident playersThe biggest time and money mistakes parents make — and what to do insteadThe truth about tournaments, burnout, and how pros use their summers to really improveThe importance of coaching quality over chasing “top-10” teamsWhy the best development happens when kids are having fun — and how music can helpHow NHL players like Tyson Foerster and Bobby Brink used skating to change their careersWhether you’re a hockey parent, a coach, or a young player with big dreams, this episode breaks down what separates “busy” development from meaningful development — and how to focus on what truly matters.🎧 Listen now — and start seeing development the way the NHL does.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: How NHL Pros Develop (And What That Means for Youth Players) with Flyers' Director of Player Development Riley Armstrong #OurKidsPlayHockey #HockeyDevelopment #RileyArmstrong #PhiladelphiaFlyers #YouthHockey #PowerSkating #HockeyParents #PlayerDevelopment #SkatingSkills #YouthSportsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒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

🎧 Ready to make your hockey game stronger — on and off the ice?In this episode of The Ride to the Rink, the crew welcomes Pete, CEO of TeamSnap, to talk about their exciting new partnership with Bauer Hockey and the launch of the Bauer Hub inside the TeamSnap app! 🚀Pete breaks down how this new hub is helping players, parents, and coaches learn together — with on-ice drills, performance tips, coaching plans, and even interactive challenges that make learning fun. Whether you’re a kid who loves hockey, a coach looking for new drills, or a parent who wants to help your player grow, this one’s packed with takeaways.💡 Highlights include:What the Bauer Hub is and how to find it in the TeamSnap appHow the #SnapToIceChallenge lets players show off their skills and win scholarships 🏆Why showing up, working hard, and keeping a growth mindset matter in both hockey and lifeTips for coaches and parents to make practice more organized and funIt’s not just about training — it’s about becoming the best version of yourself, one skate stride at a time.📲 Check out the Bauer Hub in your TeamSnap app and tag your videos with #SnapToIceChallenge for a chance to win!🎧 Subscribe to The Ride to the Rink for more inspiring stories and hockey wisdom every week.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: How TeamSnap and Bauer Are Changing the Game for Hockey Families#HockeyTraining #TeamSnap #BauerHub #YouthHockey #SnapToIceChallenge #HockeyParents #TheRideToTheRinkClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒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

🏒 What does it really mean to be tough in hockey?In this episode of Our Girls Play Hockey, PWHL Ottawa star Gabbie Hughes joins Hayley and Lee to open up about her journey from Minnesota pond hockey to professional play—and her fight to bring mental health into the conversation through Sophie’s Squad.Awarded the 2023 Hockey Humanitarian Award, Gabbie proves that leadership goes far beyond the ice. She shares the real story behind Sophie’s Squad, the pressures young athletes face, and how vulnerability can be the strongest skill in your game.🔥 Highlights Include:• How Gabbie turned early doubts into a Division I and pro hockey career 🌟• The powerful story of Sophie’s Squad and its mission to support young athletes 💜• Rethinking “toughness” in hockey—why emotions are strength, not weakness 🧠• Practical mental health strategies for players, coaches, and parents 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦• Life beyond the rink: finding identity outside of being “just a hockey player” 🤔This is more than another episode—it’s a blueprint for creating healthier teams, stronger athletes, and a more supportive hockey community.🎧 Listen now and join the movement to end the stigma around mental health in sports.📚 Learn more about Sophie’s Squad at sophiessquad.org📖 Want a written version of this episode you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Beyond the Ice: Gabby Hughes on Hockey, Mental Health, and the Power of Sophie’s Squad#HockeyMentalHealth #SophiesSquad #AthleteWellness #OurGirlsPlayHockey #PWHLOttawaClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒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

🚨 The App Every Hockey Parent Knows (and Needs!) — Inside TeamSnap with CEO Peter FrintzilasEver wonder what it’s like to run the app that runs youth sports? In this week’s episode, the OKPH crew sits down with Peter Frintzilas, CEO of TeamSnap — hockey dad, tech leader, and the man helping 25+ million families manage the chaos of youth sports.From 4:30 a.m. coffee runs to 5 a.m. rink drop-offs, Peter gets it — because he’s living it. Hear how TeamSnap is evolving beyond scheduling into a one-stop hub for organization, coaching, and community, including an exciting new partnership with Bauer Hockey that’s changing how families engage with the sport.💡 In This Episode:How TeamSnap keeps youth hockey organized (and parents sane 🧊)The Bauer Hockey partnership and new Snap to Ice challengePrivacy and security for families using sports techHow AI and innovation are shaping the future of youth sportsWhy tech should make sports more fun — not more stressfulWhether you’re a volunteer coach, a rink warrior parent, or just someone who wants fewer 6 a.m. “Where’s the game?” texts, this one’s for you.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: How TeamSnap Is Changing Youth Hockey with CEO Peter Frintzilas👉 Share this episode in your TeamSnap chat! #OurKidsPlayHockey #TeamSnap #YouthSportsTech #HockeyParents #BauerHockey #HockeyLife #SnapToIceClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒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

🎧 What’s the true return on investment in hockey? Spoiler alert: it’s about so much more than scholarships and pro contracts.This week on The Ride To The Rink, we welcome back our friend Jack Han — former NHL development coach, AHL assistant, and author who’s worked with players and coaches all over the world. Jack dives into what “ROI” really means in youth hockey and why your investment in the game goes far beyond money.🔥 Highlights from this episode:💡 Why hockey’s ROI is measured in friendships, growth, and opportunities — not just scholarships.🌍 Jack’s path from the Montreal Canadiens to the Toronto Maple Leafs, and how he “made the NHL” without ever playing there.🧊 The overlooked careers and roles in hockey (yes, even Zamboni drivers and social media managers!).👥 How learning from both older and younger players shapes your game and your character.💪 Why playing “as long as you can” matters — but why education and balance matter too.Jack’s wisdom is the perfect reminder for kids and parents alike: hockey gives you much more back than you might realize.👉 If you love this conversation, share it with your hockey family and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a ride!📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: The True ROI of Hockey with Jack Han#YouthHockey #JackHan #HockeyParents #HockeyLife #HockeyDevelopment #HockeyJourneyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒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

🏒 Feeling unmotivated to hit the ice? You're not alone—even the pros struggle sometimes!This episode of "The Ride to the Rink" tackles the tough days when hockey feels more like a chore than a passion. Hosts Lee MJ Elias and Hayley Scamurra team up with Jessie Thompson from the Washington Capitals to share game-changing strategies for young players facing motivation slumps.Key Points:Turn your frown upside down: Find one thing to look forward to at the rinkIt's okay to not be okay: How to communicate with coaches when you're not at 100%Teamwork makes the dream work: Simple ways to lift up your fellow playersPro tips: How elite athletes push through the tough daysAsking for help isn't weak—it's smart hockey!Whether you're a budding star or a seasoned player, this episode is packed with practical advice to keep your head in the game, even when your heart's not feeling it. Ready to transform those "I don't wanna" moments into "Let's do this!" energy? Lace up your skates and tune in!💬 Got questions or need a motivational boost? Hit us up at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Jessie Thompson on Overcoming the "I Don't Wanna" Days#RideToTheRink #HockeyMotivation #YouthHockey #TeamworkMakesTheDreamWorkClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒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

🎧 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 journeyJack 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 #OurKidsPlayHockeyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒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

🚨 What’s the most underrated skill in hockey? It’s not speed. It’s not saves. It’s not even scoring goals. According to pro goalie Ian Shane (Cornell standout, now playing at the pro level), the real game-changer is being a great teammate.In this week’s episode of The Ride to the Rink, Lee, Mike, and Christie sit down with Ian to explore what makes a true difference-maker in the locker room — and how learning to lift others up can actually improve your own game.🔥 In this episode, you’ll hear:Why shifting your focus to others can pull you out of a funkHow goalies can build positive, competitive partnerships with each otherThe importance of asking questions and learning from older playersStrategies to flip negative thoughts about yourself or teammates into growth opportunitiesIan’s inspiring journey: from a California hockey kid ➝ third-string at Cornell ➝ four-year starter ➝ proWhether you’re a goalie, skater, or hockey parent, Ian’s insights go way beyond the crease. This episode is packed with advice to help kids grow as players, leaders, and teammates both on and off the ice.🎧 Hit play on this ride and discover why the best teammates aren’t just good for the team — they make the game more fun, too.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to Our Kids Play Hockey for more powerful content every week!📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: How to Compete AND Support: Ian Shane on Why Great Goaltenders Think About Others FirstClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🚨 Big news—Dangle Pro is here, the world’s first mixed-reality stickhandling trainer. Using Meta Quest, players dangle through live 3D obstacles, earn points, and build faster hands with their head up. Officially licensed by the NHL and trusted by USA Hockey, it’s the future of training. Sign up at SenseArena.com/OKPH with code OKPH for $25 off an annual subscription. 🏒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