Our Kids Play Hockey

Welcome back, hockey skaters and goalies! On this special edition of The Ride to the Rink, we are honored to have a true hockey legend joining us—NHL Hall of Famer Bryan Trottier. As one of the top 100 NHL players of all time, Bryan has an impressive resume with seven Stanley Cups under his belt—six as a player and one as a coach. Today, he shares valuable insights on the importance of being resourceful in your training and how overcoming challenges can lead to success.Key Takeaways:•Resourcefulness Over Resources: Bryan emphasizes that success isn’t about having the best resources but being resourceful with what you have. Whether it’s practicing stick skills in a barn or finding ways to play in a remote community, it’s all about making the most of your situation.•From Small Town to Big League: Growing up in Valmarie, Saskatchewan, a town with a population of just 250, Bryan faced many challenges, including homesickness and limited opportunities. Yet, he made it all the way to the NHL, proving that determination and resilience can take you far, no matter where you start.•The Power of Community: Bryan talks about the importance of community and family support in achieving your goals. He draws parallels between his own upbringing and the close-knit indigenous communities he often visits, highlighting the shared values of teamwork, humility, and mentorship.•Mentorship and Legacy: Bryan reflects on how mentors, whether they are parents, coaches, or teammates, have played a crucial role in his journey. He also discusses the significance of giving back and inspiring the next generation of hockey players.•Inclusion and Representation: As a proud grandfather of seven granddaughters, Bryan is thrilled to see the increasing participation of girls in hockey. He applauds the efforts of female athletes who are paving the way for the next generation, including his own granddaughters.Tune in to hear Bryan’s inspiring story and gain insight into what it takes to succeed in hockey and life. And don’t forget to check out his full episode on Our Kids Play Hockey, available now on all podcast platforms.Thank you for joining us on The Ride to the Rink! Enjoy your day, enjoy your hockey, and always remember to keep skating.Click 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

In this insightful episode of Our Girls Play Hockey, hosts Lee Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Sheri Hudspeth are joined by hockey legend Megan Bozek to tackle a question many parents and young female athletes face: “How long should girls play boys’ hockey?”Megan, a decorated Team USA member and Olympic medalist, shares her personal journey from playing boys’ hockey until the 8th grade to making the switch to girls’ hockey. She delves into the challenges and benefits of both environments, offering invaluable advice for parents and players navigating this crucial decision.The episode covers essential topics such as the importance of development in youth hockey, the role of parents in supporting their daughters through transitions, and the key questions to ask when determining whether to continue in boys’ hockey or move to an all-girls team. Megan also highlights the changing landscape of girls’ hockey, including the opportunities available in showcases and college recruitment, and the social aspects that can influence a player’s decision.Whether you’re a parent, coach, or player, this episode provides a comprehensive look at the factors that go into making the best decision for a young female athlete’s hockey career. Megan’s experience and wisdom offer guidance that is both practical and inspiring.Tune in to learn more about when the right time might be for girls to switch from boys’ hockey and how to make the most of every opportunity on the ice.Key Discussion Points:•The benefits and challenges of playing boys’ hockey vs. girls’ hockey.•The role of development and how it impacts long-term success in hockey.•Questions parents and players should consider when deciding whether to switch to girls’ hockey.•The importance of being seen in showcases for college recruitment.•How to maintain a positive and supportive environment for young female athletes.Click 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

In this inspiring episode of “Our Kids Play Hockey,” hosts Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli sit down with NHL legend & Hall of Famer Bryan Trottier. With seven Stanley Cups to his name—six as a player and one as a coach—Trottier shares his journey from a small town in Saskatchewan to the pinnacle of hockey success. He opens up about his commitment to honoring his First Nation heritage and the vital work he does to grow the game in Indigenous communities across Canada.Trottier discusses the resilience and pride of these communities, the role hockey plays in building character, and the importance of inclusivity in the sport. This episode offers valuable insights into how hockey can shape not just players but whole communities. Be sure to check out the powerful documentary “Hockey First Nation” mentioned in this episode, which follows Bryan on his mission to highlight the life-changing impact of hockey in Indigenous communities. View the documentary here: https://youtu.be/E_cE_D3mhl8. Click 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

Welcome back, hockey skaters and goalies around the world, to another edition of The Ride to the Rink! With the new season fast approaching, it’s time to get prepared. Inspired by our recent episode on Our Kids Play Hockey, we’ve created a quick three-step checklist to help you get ready for the season.1.Equipment Check:•Make sure all your gear fits properly.•Replace any equipment that is too small or worn out.•Important items to check include hockey pants, shin guards, and sticks.•Goalies, ensure your leg pads and pants fit correctly for optimal protection.2.Mental State:•Reflect on your current mindset and how you want to approach the season.•Acknowledge any feelings of anxiety or excitement and make a plan to address them.•Discuss your mental goals with parents or coaches to build a strong mental game.3.Gratitude Check:•Recognize the people who support you, like parents, grandparents, and coaches.•Show appreciation for their time and effort in helping you pursue your passion.•Stay organized with your practice schedules and be ready to go without needing constant reminders.Remember, these three steps are essential as you prepare for the upcoming season. Stay tuned to The Ride to the Rink for more tips and insights. And most importantly, skate hard, have fun, and believe in yourself because we believe in you!Click 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 do coaches need to do to prepare for the new season??? In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, hosts Mike Bonelli and Lee Elias share essential tips and tactics for coaches to prepare for the upcoming season. Whether you’re a seasoned coach or volunteering for the first time, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you build a successful and enjoyable season for your team.Remember:•Successful coaching starts with good communication and a supportive staff.•Proper planning and organization are essential for a smooth and enjoyable season.•Certification and ongoing education are crucial for maintaining a safe and effective coaching environment.•Building a strong team identity and incorporating fun into practices can enhance player development and enjoyment.•Regular team-building activities help create a cohesive and motivated team with trust and communication.--Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey. We appreciate your support and look forward to bringing you more valuable insights and discussions in future episodes. Don’t forget to like and subscribe to our podcast and join our growing community of hockey families.Click 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

In this episode of “The Ride to the Rink,” hosts Lee Elias and Christie Casciano Burns provide invaluable advice for kids who are either joining a new hockey team for the first time or welcoming new teammates. The hosts discuss common anxieties, how to make a positive first impression, and the importance of teamwork both on and off the ice. This episode is packed with practical tips to help young players navigate new team dynamics with confidence and ease.Key Topics:Joining a New Team:Addressing common anxieties about being the new kid.Tips for making a positive first impression.Importance of introducing yourself and finding common interests.On the Ice:Watching and learning drills and systems.Balancing between showing skills and being a team player.Importance of communication and asking questions.Off the Ice:Building friendships in the locker room.Helping out and being a positive presence.Welcoming New Teammates:How to make new team members feel included.The role of current team members in creating a welcoming environment.If you found value in this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Visit OurKidsPlayHockey.com for more episodes and resources. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates and more helpful content.Click 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

Welcome to the premiere episode of “Our Girls Play Hockey,” a new series within the “Our Kids Play Hockey” podcast network. In this episode, hosts Lee Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Sheri Hudspeth from the Vegas Golden Knights, dive into the intricacies of starting a girls’ youth hockey program. Our expert guest, Katelyn Parker, shares her invaluable insights and experiences.Starting a Girls’ Hockey Program:•Importance of having passionate leaders.•Initial steps: Contacting district representatives and understanding rules and regulations.•Grassroots approach: Building a sustainable program by starting at the lower levels and creating a strong pipeline.Essential Components for a Successful Program:•Importance of passionate leadership.•Required resources: Ice time, uniforms, facilities, and coaches.•Creative solutions: Utilizing different age groups and spaces to build a community and increase participation.Challenges and Solutions:•Overcoming hurdles in starting a new program.•The importance of building mass numbers for a sustainable team.•Balancing different age groups and creating inclusive environments.Role Models and Representation:•The impact of female coaches and role models on young players.•Successful events and initiatives that promote girls’ hockey.Creative Outreach and Marketing Strategies:•Using social media and community events to spread the word.•Collaborating with organizations like Girl Scouts and local schools.•Hosting try hockey for free events and leveraging NHL resources.Personal Insights and Experiences:•Sheri and Katelyn’s experiences in growing girls’ hockey on the West Coast.•Success stories and impactful moments from their careers.Takeaways:•Passion and leadership are critical in starting and sustaining a girls’ hockey program.•Utilize available resources creatively to build a strong community.•Promote inclusivity and create safe spaces for girls to thrive in hockey.•Leverage social media and community events to increase visibility and participation.If you have any questions or need further advice on starting a girls’ hockey program, feel free to reach out to the team at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com. Stay tuned for more episodes of “Our Girls Play Hockey,” where we will continue to explore and discuss various Click 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

In this episode of “Our Kids Play Hockey,” hosts Lee Elias and Christie Casciano Burns discuss the challenges and opportunities that come with being the new kid or new family on a hockey team. Whether you’ve switched clubs, moved to a new town, or joined a different hockey team for any reason, this episode offers valuable tips on how to integrate smoothly, make new friends, and create a positive environment. With Mike Bonelli on assignment in Norway, Lee and Christie share personal stories, practical advice, and actionable strategies to help both kids and parents navigate this transition with confidence and ease.Key Topics:Understanding the Feelings:Addressing common anxieties and apprehensions.Normalizing the feelings of nervousness and fear of the unknown.Making a Positive First Impression:Importance of introducing yourself and your child to coaches and other families.Communicating effectively to build relationships and break the ice.On-Ice Strategies for New Players:Observing and learning drills before trying to impress.Asking questions and seeking help when needed.Balancing between showcasing skills and being a team player.Off-Ice Strategies for Parents:Getting involved appropriately without overcommitting.Building a supportive parent community.Communicating any special circumstances or needs of your child.Welcoming New Teammates:How current team members and families can make new players feel included.Encouraging kids to be leaders and positive role models.Dealing with Challenges:Handling potential jealousy or competition.Using new opportunities to learn and grow.If you found value in this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Visit OurKidsPlayHockey.com for more episodes and resources. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates and more helpful content.Stay tuned for more episodes of “Our Kids Play Hockey,” where we provide practical advice and inspiring stories for young hockey players and their families. Thanks for listening!Click 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

Show Notes:In this episode of “The Ride to the Rink,” host Lee Elias is joined by Division 3 hockey player and online influencer Luke Croucher. Currently playing for Neumann University, Luke shares his journey from Canada to Philadelphia and dives into the importance of building habits for success in hockey and life. They discuss how small, consistent actions can lead to significant improvements and the mental fortitude required to maintain these habits. Luke provides practical tips on creating productive routines, overcoming obstacles, and maintaining motivation.Key Topics:Introduction to Luke Croucher:Background as a Division 3 hockey player at Newman University.His role as an online influencer and content creator.The Power of Habits:Importance of daily habits in becoming a better hockey player.Insights from the book “The Power of Habit” by Charles Duhigg.How 40% of daily actions are driven by habits.Creating Productive Routines:Building routines to support habit formation.Example of using a home gym and the importance of consistent practice.The concept that “time has memory” and “location has energy.”Mental and Emotional Aspects:Overcoming the lack of motivation and emotional challenges.Building confidence through consistency and showing up even on tough days.Practical Tips for Young Players:How young players can start building habits at any age.The importance of tenacity and not being afraid to make mistakes.Encouraging a mindset of continual improvement and risk-taking.Final Thoughts and Advice:The significance of parental support in helping kids build habits.Luke’s personal experiences and advice for aspiring hockey players.Call to Action:If you found value in this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Visit OurKidsPlayHockey.com for more episodes and resources. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates and more helpful content.Stay tuned for more episodes of “The Ride to the Rink,” where we provide practical advice and inspiring stories for young hockey players and their families. Thanks for listening!Click 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

Show Notes:In this engaging episode of “Our Kids Play Hockey,” hosts Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli welcome Luke Croucher, a Division III hockey player from Neumann University with a passion for motivating, inspiring, and educating young hockey players. Luke shares his unique hockey journey from Ancaster, Ontario, to college hockey near Philadelphia, highlighting the importance of perseverance, hard work, and capturing life lessons. This episode dives into overcoming challenges, the significance of Division III hockey, and Luke’s role as a social media influencer for the youth hockey community.Key Topics:Luke Croucher’s Journey: From growing up in Ontario with UK-born parents to playing Division III hockey at Newman University.Overcoming Stigmas: The value of playing Division III hockey and the dedication required to succeed.Building Habits for Success: The importance of developing consistent habits early in a hockey career.Role of Social Media: Luke’s approach to using social media to inspire and educate young players, and the challenges of balancing content creation with team dynamics.Mental Fitness: Addressing the importance of mental health in youth sports and how to navigate emotional hurdles.New Community Initiative: Luke’s free online hockey training community, My Hockey Training, aimed at providing guidance and support for aspiring players.If you found value in this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Visit OurKidsPlayHockey.com for more episodes and resources. Follow Luke Croucher on Instagram and join his My Hockey Training community to continue your hockey journey with expert guidance and support.Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice on “Our Kids Play Hockey.” Thanks for listening!Click 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