Our Kids Play Hockey

Our Kids Play Hockey is a podcast that focuses on youth hockey, offering insights, stories, and interviews from the hockey community. It provides valuable advice for parents, coaches, and players, covering various aspects of the game, including skill development, sportsmanship, teamwork, and creating a positive experience for young athletes. The show frequently features guests who share their expertise and personal experiences in youth hockey, both on and off the ice.The show features three hockey parents, who all work in the game at high levels: Christie Casciano-Burns - USA Hockey Columnist, Author, and WSYR AnchorMike Bonelli - USA Hockey Coach and Organizational ConsultantLee M.J. Elias - Hockey Entrepreneur, Author, and Team StrategistIn addition to the main podcast, there are several spin-off series that dive into specific aspects of youth hockey:1.Our Girls Play Hockey – This series highlights the growing presence of girls in hockey, addressing the unique challenges they face while celebrating their accomplishments and contributions to the sport.2.The Ride to The Rink – A shorter, motivational series designed to be listened to on the way to the rink, offering quick, inspirational tips and advice to help players and parents get into the right mindset before a game or practice. 3.Our Kids Play Goalie – This series is dedicated to young goalies and the unique challenges they face. It provides advice for players, parents, and coaches on how to support and develop young goaltenders, focusing on the mental and physical demands of the position.Together, these shows provide a comprehensive platform for parents, players, and coaches involved in youth hockey, offering insights for all aspects of the sport, from parenting, playing, or coaching to specialized positions like goaltending.

Episodes

Mentioned books

Apr 25, 2024 • 4min

The Ride to the Rink: Defy Conventions And Persevere Towards Success

In this heartfelt episode of The Ride To The Rink, Hockey Mom Christie shares a powerful story penned by her son, Joey at age 14, illustrating his profound journey through the world of hockey. Titled "Challenged and Inspired by Hockey," Joey's narrative delves into his relentless work ethic and determination that set him apart from his peers in a generation often criticized for its instant gratification mindset. Despite starting hockey later than most of his peers, Joey’s commitment turned his initial disadvantages into a triumph of perseverance and hard work. From endless summer practices to making the elite travel team, Joey’s story is a testament to the life lessons and personal growth fostered by dedication to sport. This episode not only celebrates Joey's achievements but also serves as an inspiration for young athletes everywhere, encouraging them to embrace challenges and exceed their own expectations. Join us as Christie brings to life a tale of ambition, resilience, and the transformative power of hockey.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

Apr 20, 2024 • 1h 9min

Safeguarding Youth Athletes: Insights from Physical Therapist Dr. Addison Lerner-Lentz

In this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," hosts Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli dive into the crucial topic of youth athlete health and workload management. The episode features a special guest, Dr. Addison Lerner-Lentz, a seasoned expert in physical therapy and sports coaching. With Christie Casciano-Burns on assignment, Lee and Mike lead a conversation that explores the delicate balance between pushing young athletes towards greatness and ensuring they remain healthy and injury-free for the long haul.Dr. Addison Lerner-Lentz, with nearly 15 years of experience in physical therapy and a decade in coaching collegiate sports, shares her invaluable perspective on physical and cognitive training. As a mother of four and Lee's personal physical therapist, Dr. Lerner-Lentz brings a unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience to the discussion. Her insights into preventing injuries in young athletes and preparing them for the rigors of sports are not just informative but also transformative, offering practical advice for parents and coaches alike.As the conversation unfolds, Dr. Lerner-Lentz addresses common concerns around youth sports specialization, the risks of early specialization, and the benefits of engaging in multiple sports. She underscores the importance of diversity in sports activities to prevent injuries and promote overall development.Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the mental and physical aspects of youth sports, learning how to navigate the challenges of competitive sports while prioritizing health and well-being. Dr. Lerner-Lentz's personal stories and professional advice highlight the significance of proper physical therapy, the dangers of pushing through pain, and the long-term implications of sports-related injuries.Whether you're a parent, coach, or young athlete, this episode offers valuable insights into keeping young sports enthusiasts healthy, happy, and active. Join us for an enlightening conversation on "Our Kids Play Hockey" and discover how to support the health and success of your young athletes.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

Apr 18, 2024 • 4min

Building Teams and Developing Champions with Neil Smith and Vic Morren of the NHL Wraparound Podcast

In this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," hosts Lee Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli dive into a conversation with two hockey legends, Neil Smith and Vic Morren. Neil and Vic share their invaluable experiences and philosophies on building successful teams and fostering leadership qualities in young athletes.What You'll Learn:The Art of Team Building: Discover Neil Smith's approach to creating a championship team, focusing on the blend of talent, character, and leadership.Developing Young Talent: Vic Morren sheds light on the importance of nurturing young players, emphasizing respect, discipline, and a strong work ethic.Overcoming Adversity: Both guests share their perspectives on the critical role of facing and overcoming challenges, both in hockey and life.Leadership: Insights into what makes a great leader on and off the ice, and how these qualities can be cultivated in young athletes.The Future of Hockey: A discussion on the evolving landscape of hockey and what it means for the next generation of players and coaches.Episode Highlights:Neil Smith's Blueprint for Success: An in-depth look at the strategy behind the 1994 Rangers' triumph and how these principles can be applied to youth hockey.Vic Morren's Philosophy on Youth Development: Learn about the principles that have made Vic a respected figure in youth hockey circles.Personal Growth Through Sport: Our guests discuss how the lessons learned through hockey are applicable to personal development and success beyond the rink.This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in hockey, from coaches and parents to young players aspiring to reach new heights in their careers. Neil Smith and Vic Morren not only share the secrets behind their impressive careers but also impart wisdom that transcends sports, offering lessons on leadership, resilience, and the power of a positive team culture.Join Lee, Christie, and Mike as they explore these themes, providing both inspiration and practical advice for our hockey community. Whether you're looking to inspire a young athlete or understand the nuances of team dynamics, this episode offers rich insights into the essence of success in hockey and life.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

Apr 4, 2024 • 7min

The Ride To The Rink - Parents and Players Should Talk Before Youth Hockey Tryouts

On this week's episode of "The Ride To The Rink," Lee dives into an often-overlooked aspect of hockey tryouts and evaluations: the mental and emotional journey that players and their parents experience. While the physical challenges of tryouts are widely acknowledged, the psychological pressures accompanying them can significantly impact performance and well-being.Episode Highlights:Understanding Anxiety in Tryouts: Lee shares insights into the common anxieties faced by both players and parents during the evaluation period. Recognizing that nerves are a natural response because it means you care deeply about the outcome is a crucial step toward managing them.The Importance of Open Communication: Emphasizing the value of discussing feelings of nervousness or anxiety, Lee suggests that open conversations between parents and children can alleviate stress and build a supportive environment.Focusing on What You Can Control: A key message of the episode is the empowerment found in concentrating on effort, preparation, and attitude—elements within a player's control—rather than the uncontrollable aspects of team selection.Dealing with Disappointment and Success: Lee offers perspective on handling both the disappointment of not making a desired team and the joy of success, reminding listeners that effort and personal growth define a player more than the team they play for.A Call for Unity and Support: The episode calls on families to stand united, focusing on mutual support and effort as they navigate the tryout process, highlighting that the journey is as important as the destination.Lee closes the episode with words of encouragement, reminding everyone that they are not defined by the outcome of tryouts but by their dedication and resilience. Whether you're a player feeling the weight of expectations or a parent coping with your own set of anxieties, this episode is a must-listen for anyone getting ready to try out for their next season in youth hockey.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

Mar 30, 2024 • 1h 4min

How the Blackhawks Are Transforming Hockey Culture and Fan Engagement with Jaime Faulkner

This week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey" features an inspiring conversation with Jaime Faulkner, President of Business Operations for the Chicago Blackhawks. Jaime shares insights into her multifaceted role, which largely focuses on advancing the fan experience—a goal the Blackhawks' team is truly succeeding at. Jaime’s leadership and vision in a pivotal position within the Blackhawks organization highlights the evolving landscape of hockey at all levels.Key Insights:The significance of evolving the fan experience, especially for families and children, to cultivate long-term supporters of the game.The impactful role of high-character players, like Connor Bedard, in community and youth engagement.The necessity for youth hockey organizations to collaborate and prioritize the best interests of kids, facilitating their growth in the sport.The benefits and personal rewards of being a billet family for young hockey players aiming for professional careers.Jaime’s personal journey and experiences that inform her innovative approach to fan engagement and community involvement.Action Items for Listeners:Consider the role each member of the hockey community plays in fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment, from the youth level to the NHL.Encourage local hockey organizations to collaborate and share best practices for growing the sport and enhancing the fan experience.Explore opportunities to become a billet family, contributing to the development of young athletes both on and off the ice.Jaime's approach to enhancing the fan experience and her commitment to the sport's growth at all levels serves as a model for innovation and inclusivity in hockey. This episode not only highlights the importance of high character within the sport but also encourages listeners to actively participate in shaping the future of hockey in their communities.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

Mar 28, 2024 • 4min

The Ride To The Rink - The 4 Things Coaches Will Look For At Tryouts This Season

In this week’s episode of "The Ride to The Rink," Mike shares invaluable advice for young athletes heading to their hockey tryouts. Whether you're a seasoned player familiar with the team or someone stepping into a new organization, Mike's tips are designed to help you prepare effectively and stand out during tryouts.Key Points Discussed:Preparation is Key: Mike emphasizes the importance of arriving at the rink fully prepared. This includes knowing the location and timing of your tryouts, ensuring all necessary paperwork is completed, and getting your gear ready. Taking care of these elements beforehand can significantly reduce stress and set you up for success.Dress for Success: Like a job interview, first impressions are crucial in tryouts. Mike advises dressing appropriately, suggesting team gear if available, and avoiding a casual, disheveled appearance. This shows coaches your seriousness and professionalism.Hydration and Nutrition: Proper preparation extends beyond gear and paperwork. Mike highlights the importance of staying hydrated and well-nourished, especially during longer tryouts. Planning your meals and snacks can keep your energy levels high and improve your performance on the ice.Making a Lasting Impression: Finally, Mike discusses the significance of making a positive impact during the tryout. This includes demonstrating your skills, being a supportive teammate, and engaging positively with coaches and players. It's your opportunity to redefine or reaffirm your reputation within the team.Whether you're trying out for a new team or looking to secure your spot once again, this episode offers a comprehensive guide to acing your hockey tryouts. Join Mike Bonelli on "The Ride to The Rink" for these crucial tips and get ready to make your mark.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

Mar 23, 2024 • 1h 23min

Elevating Youth Hockey with Justin Scott Through Global Insights and Grassroots Development

In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, we explore the evolving landscape of hockey training, emphasizing the blend of physical and cognitive skills necessary for modern players. We dive into the discussion with Justin Scott, a renowned power skating specialist and certified hockey skills coach, to understand the global perspective of hockey's growth and how it translates into local training methodologies.Key Points Discussed:Expanding Hockey Globally: We discuss the worldwide expansion of hockey, focusing on the diverse international experiences of our guest, Justin Scott. His travels across continents such as Asia, Africa, Oceania, and North America provide unique insights into the global appreciation and development of the sport.Advancements in Off-Ice Training: The conversation highlights the importance of mental and physical training, emphasizing the benefits of virtual reality platforms like NHL Sense Arena. These modern training methods are revolutionizing how players practice off the ice, making high-level training more accessible and affordable.The Importance of Skating Skills: A significant portion of the discussion is dedicated to the art of power skating. Justin shares his philosophy and approach to teaching skating skills, emphasizing the importance of starting young and continually refining techniques as players grow.Adapting to the Modern Game: The episode sheds light on how the game of hockey is changing and how coaches and players must adapt. The emphasis is on possession, creativity, and utilizing space effectively on the ice, contrasting traditional play styles with modern, dynamic strategies.Creating Supportive Training Environments: We discuss the importance of creating the right training environments that foster creativity, confidence, and skill development. The role of coaches in facilitating these environments is emphasized, highlighting the need for positive reinforcement and tailored training approaches.Evolving Hockey Training Practices: The conversation concludes with thoughts on the evolution of hockey training. The importance of continuous learning, adapting to new coaching methods, and integrating technology and modern training techniques are discussed as essential elements for developing successful hockey players today.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

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