Our Kids Play Hockey

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 the ice. Learn how young athletes can develop character by doing chores, being good students, and supporting teammates. Katie highlights the balance between fun and dedication, reminding us that hard work is key to reaching high-level goals.Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.sensearena.com/OKPHHave 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

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 goaltending. Steve shares his unique approach to goalie development, emphasizing fundamentals, skating, and positioning for young players before introducing advanced techniques. Learn about the mental toughness required in goaltending, including the skill of keeping eyes open and not flinching during shots.Steve also highlights the importance of structuring practices with game-like situations to teach players how to compete effectively.--Key Points:Impact of Analytics on HockeyRoyal Road TheoryClear Sight AnalyticsPractice Planning and Game SimulationPlayer Feedback and AdaptationMental Fitness and Competitive PracticesCoaching ApproachYouth Goalie DevelopmentEye Training for GoaliesDiscipline and Competition in PracticeNHL Stars' Practice HabitsConclusion and Reflections--Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.sensearena.com/OKPHHave 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

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 empowers athletes to take control of their lives and situations, while gratitude practices help shift energy towards positivity. --Key Discussion Points- Separating the Human from the Hockey Player- Holistic Approach to Athletic Performance- Empowering Athletes Through Perspective Shift- Gratitude Practice for Athletes- Grounding and Breathing Techniques--Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.sensearena.com/OKPHHave 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 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 a surge in girls' and women's hockey participation across the U.S. Plus, get the scoop on the upcoming USA-Canada Rivalry Series games scheduled for November and February. Aspiring olympians can not afford to miss Katie's advice on balancing fun with developing grit to reach national team levels.--- Lee, Mike, and Sheri discuss the importance of creating a positive environment for girls' youth hockey.- Katie, the GM of the women's national team, shares insights into her role and the upcoming 2026 Olympic Games.- Sheri inquires about the pathway for young players aspiring to join national teams, emphasizing the importance of fun and development.- Katie outlines the process of district tryouts and player development camps for USA Hockey.- The conversation touches on the qualities needed to represent the national team, including speed, physicality, and mental toughness.- Lee and Katie discuss the significance of having fun in sports and the mindset required for high-level athletes.- Katie highlights the importance of character and grit in players, which are crucial for representing the country.- The panel discusses the challenges of selecting players for the Olympic team and the emotional impact of cuts.- Katie shares the evolving landscape of women's hockey with the introduction of the PWHL and its impact on Olympic preparations.- The rivalry between USA and Canada in women's hockey is explored, emphasizing its intensity and significance.- Katie provides details about the upcoming rivalry series games in the US and Canada.- The episode includes a story about Katie's nephew being inspired by women's hockey to start playing the sport.--Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.sensearena.com/OKPHHave 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

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 the joy and fun of hockey, rather than pushing for elite development too early. Riley shares his personal experiences, shedding light on the critical need to address mental health and emotional intelligence in a sport that often suppresses emotions. He introduces creative methods, like rhythmic drumming, to teach mindfulness and presence. The conversation also touches on the vital role parents play in supporting their children's emotional development, encouraging them to practice mindfulness themselves.--- Riley Cote shares his journey from youth hockey to the NHL, highlighting parental support and joy in the game.•Discussion on the pressure for young players to pursue elite paths, comparing it to gymnastics, and its impact on enjoying hockey.•Emphasis on playing for fun and the negative effects of parental pressure.•Lee shares a personal story about his son’s excitement, stressing the importance of joy in sports.•Riley discusses his work at Philadelphia Hockey Academy, focusing on mindfulness and separating the human from the athlete.•Mental fitness in hockey is explored, with Riley emphasizing mindfulness and self-regulation for players and parents.•Mindfulness is explained as being present, with simple practices for kids.•The role of parents in modeling mindfulness and its impact on children is highlighted.•Mike questions the lack of mental fitness focus in hockey, and Riley shares challenges in integrating it into programs.•Riley provides examples of improved focus and self-regulation in young players through mindfulness, including rhythmic drumming.•The importance of teaching kids to manage emotions constructively is emphasized.--Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.sensearena.com/OKPHHave 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

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, and locker room talks, emphasizing the importance of positive relationships.--00:00:00 Intro00:00:08 Engaging with Coaches00:01:11 Receiving Feedback--Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.sensearena.com/OKPHHave 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

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 minutes a day dedicated to extra training can lead to significant advantages over time. The discussion also highlights the importance of focusing on strengths, encouraging athletes, especially girls, to elevate their skills from good to great. Plus, find out how effective communication with coaches can help players lacking confidence understand what is expected of them and identify areas for improvement.Key Discussion Points- Building Confidence Through Daily Goals- Self-Directed Goal Setting for Athletes- Consistency in Small Efforts- Focusing on Strengths- Communicating with Coaches for Improvement--0:00 Intro0:08 Setting and Achieving Small Goals5:48 Seeking Feedback from Coaches8:00 Building Confidence in SportsClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.sensearena.com/OKPHHave 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 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, understand the importance of letting kids learn from failure, and discover the power of unconditional love and praise. This episode is a must-listen for any parent navigating the highs and lows of youth hockey.Key Discussion Points- Lee shares a story about feeling calm while watching his daughter play hockey, contrasting it with his earlier anxious experiences.- Christie compares the experience of being a new hockey parent to having a first child, emphasizing how experience reduces anxiety.- Lee and Christie discuss the importance of letting kids learn from their experiences and failures.- Mike talks about the emotional reactions parents have during their kids' sports events and the importance of reflection.- Lee highlights the significance of recognizing that parents have little control over the game and should focus on supporting their children.- Christie stresses the importance of unconditional love and support, rather than critiquing, after games.- Mike mentions the need for parents to allow their children to become independent, even if it means watching them struggle initially.- Lee discusses the long-term development of skills in hockey and the importance of patience.- Christie and Lee talk about the value of not discussing the game in the car unless the child initiates the conversation.- Mike and Lee reflect on the impact of social media on parents and children, emphasizing the need to focus on personal growth rather than comparisons.0:00 Intro0:08 Overcoming Anxiety as a Hockey Parent3:07 The Evolution of Parenting in Youth Hockey12:35 Notes from a Hockey Elder14:06 Parenting Lessons from Hockey16:18 The Impact of Parental Behavior on Young Athletes18:51 The Challenges of Parenting in Youth Sports20:35 Changing Parental Involvement in Youth Sports28:31 The Long Game in Youth Hockey38:43 Realization of Over-Involvement47:00 The Importance of Development Over WinningClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.sensearena.com/OKPHHave 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 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 by Sidney Crosby's leadership style, and underscores the need for emotional regulation to handle the game's ups and downs.Key Discussion Points- Hydration Between Shifts- Mental Preparation Between Shifts- Observing the Game- Positive Team Communication- Emotional Regulation--0:00 Intro1:32 Hydration During Hockey Games2:33 Mental Focus Between Shifts5:05 Positive Communication and TeamworkClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.sensearena.com/OKPHHave 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 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 girls and boys hockey, emphasizing peer connections.- Skill levels are similar at young ages, but checking introduces a physicality difference in boys hockey.- Challenges in involving more women in coaching are discussed, with Kim sharing her experiences and the impact of life events like childbirth.- Kim shares a story about going into labor while coaching, showcasing her dedication.- Parents' expectations differ, with boys' parents often becoming intense earlier.- Confidence is crucial in girls hockey, with Kim encouraging creativity and "skating to daylight."- Female coaches bring unique empathy, having faced similar social pressures.- Communication and understanding dynamics in girls hockey are vital, as players often avoid standing out.- Coaching strategies for girls focus on collaborative competition and fostering creativity.- Female representation on the bench is important for player connection and support.00:00:00 Intro00:01:49 Girls Hockey vs. Boys Hockey00:05:17 Challenges for Women in Coaching00:14:21 Navigating Girls Hockey Pathways to College00:23:37 The Role of Female Coaches in Hockey00:25:10 Encouraging Women to Pursue Coaching Careers00:30:38 The Importance of Visibility and Mentorship in Women's Hockey00:40:26 Coaching Girls in Hockey00:43:28 Confidence and Physicality in Girls Hockey00:57:22 Empathy in Coaching Girls' Hockey01:02:59 Girls' Reluctance in High-Pressure Situations01:04:30 Empowerment Through Leadership Roles in Sports01:05:44 Collaborative Competition in Women's Sports01:12:01 Kim McCullough's Global Coaching ExperienceClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!NHL Sense Arena annual memberships are 50% off for the holidays, starting at just $29 a month — plus you can save an extra $25 with code OKPH at checkout.Gift you hockey family the ultimate hockey training experience with NHL Sense Arena ‘26 — available now at hockey.sensearena.com/OKPHHave 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