

Our Kids Play Hockey
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

Oct 5, 2023 • 6min
The Ride To The Rink - Redefining Leadership Beyond the 'C' and 'A' in Youth Hockey
On this week's Ride To the Rink, Lee shares insights on leadership that extend beyond the badge of honor stitched onto a jersey. Tune in to explore the qualities that make a good leader. We challenge the notion that leadership is confined to those donning the 'C' or 'A', provoking thought on how each team member, regardless of their designated role, can contribute to the team's success. We unpack essential leadership attributes such as trust, communication, accountability, and character, and how they shape not just the game, but also life off the ice. Whether you're a seasoned leader or an aspiring one, this episode will inspire you to reflect, reassess, and redefine your leadership style. 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

Sep 30, 2023 • 1h 20min
Embrace The Chaos: The Art of Balance with Hockey Mom of 4 & Entrepreneur, Kim Wright
Being a hockey parent is a tiresome job, but what would happen if you multiply that by four kids? Add in a few successful businesses to make life more chaotic and you have today's guest, Kim Wright. Kim is the mastermind behind multiple successful Nothing Bundt Cakes locations, and the mother of four young, lively hockey players (two goalies, a defenseman, and a mite!). Her story is not just inspiring; it's a testament to the power of resilience, passion, and an unwavering positive attitude.Kim reveals her secrets on how to juggle different roles without compromising on any. She discusses how she uses technology and external help to manage her packed schedule, emphasizing that each child is unique and their interests and skills can evolve over time. Kim strikes an extraordinary balance between life and hockey, making sure she doesn't sacrifice opportunities or relationships. We also explore the importance of extracurricular activities for children in this episode. Kim talks about how her children participate in activities like taekwondo, golf, surfing, and pickleball, and the ways these activities contribute to their overall development. She discusses the vital role of clear communication between parents and children, and how mistakes can lead to growth and learning. This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice and inspiration for busy hockey parents, so prepare to be inspired by Kim's journey!--If you enjoyed this episode please feel free to let us know by leaving us a 5 Star review on your preferred podcast network or a comment on social media which you can follow here: linktr.ee/WeLiveHockeyOurKidsPlayHockey.comClick 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

Sep 28, 2023 • 7min
The Ride To The Rink: The Art and Science of Selecting and Caring for Your Stick
Ever wondered why you can't seem to nail that slapshot? Or why your stick handling leaves much to be desired? It could be down to the stick you're using. Mike illuminates the often overlooked, yet crucial world of hockey sticks. From the size and flex to the tape job, he shares demonstrate how the right stick can greatly enhance your performance on the ice and emphasizes that consistency and familiarity with your equipment is key, on and off the ice. We also look into the necessity of taking care of your sticks - comparing it to maintaining your blades and ensuring your helmet is safe. From the significance of a fresh tape job to keeping your grip in good condition, you want to make sure you're ready to go when its time to hit the ice. 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

Sep 26, 2023 • 25min
Catching Up With Teenage Entrepreneur Martin Negron And Duzter Armor
In this special mid-week edition of our show - Martin Negron, the young entrepreneur who, along with his father, created Duzter Armor checks back in to share some amazing updates after their first year on the market. Their invention, Duzter Armor, has acquired the official nod for use in NHL games, and their product range now includes junior sizes. To recap our original conversation with Martin - this isn’t just your run-of-the-mill protective garment; Duzter Armor offers an added layer of safety, extending its cut-resistant coverage to the neck, arms, and even the vulnerable Achilles area. Following the journey of Martin's entrepreneurship, he shares the invaluable lessons he has learnt along the way and how the bond he shares with his father is a testament to their dedication and teamwork as they navigated the challenges of creating a unique product and running a business. Martin, beyond sharing the practicalities of Duzter Armor, also dives into the heart of its creation- ensuring safety for young hockey players. We encourage our listeners to consider Duzter Armor not just for its style and comfort, but most importantly, for the safety it provides - find it online at https://duzter.com/.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

Sep 23, 2023 • 49min
The Unexplored Side of Reward Systems in Youth Sports
Ever wondered if it's a good idea to pay your young hockey player each time they score a goal? Join in on our discussion challenging the practice of financial payouts in youth hockey. We dig into the implications and how such practices can shape not only the player's attitudes on the ice but also their personal growth off it. As we dive deeper, we warn of creating a self-centered player at the expense of a team ethos. Instead of cash incentives, we advocate for recognizing well-rounded team play and individual achievements.Can you imagine a rewards system that goes beyond just goals and assists, and shapes a player's understanding of success in the long run? We explore the idea of reward systems that focus on holistic development & we discuss innovative methods including assigning tasks at home and the merits of such methods. Highlighting the importance of setting the right tone, we share insights on fostering a supportive, encouraging team environment which doesn't undermine the collective effort. This audience requested topic is one that highlights the importance of creating an environment where players are motivated to be better people, not just better hockey players, & we invite you to join the debate. Let us know what's working for your team and together let's create a harmonious, constructive, and rewarding experience.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

Sep 21, 2023 • 10min
The Ride To The Rink - Respect Yourself And You'll Respect The Game
Respect is a crucial part of your character and it starts with self-respect - an essential aspect that could actually help to turn around your game. It's easy to overlook the small things like having a good breakfast or making it to school on time, but we challenge you to take a close look at these seemingly insignificant details, because when done consistently they can pave the way for an exceptional display of self-respect. And here's a guarantee - not only will it make you a better athlete, but a better person too.Ever felt that sense of panic before a game, realizing that you've forgotten something? We've all been there, and we have some nuggets of wisdom to share to help limit that panic. Preparation is the key to wiping away pre-game anxiety. A few minutes of preparation time can go a long way in giving you peace of mind, while also showing respect to the game and those around you. We also dive into the significance of creating an 'internal culture'. The big takeaway - how you represent yourself matters and will pay off. Listen in as we navigate this interesting intersection of sports and life that can elevate you from being a high performing athlete to a high performing individual. 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

Sep 16, 2023 • 55min
High School Hockey Tournaments From Planning to Execution with Flyers Cup President Eric Tye
Ever wonder what goes into organizing a high school hockey tournament like the Flyers Cup? Eric Tye joins us this week as the President of the Flyers Cup. He takes us on a journey through the meticulous season-long preparation, revealing the complexities of handling five divisions and the relentless attention to detail a tournament of this caliber needs. The episode also sheds light on the burgeoning growth of girls' hockey, and Eric's ambitious goal of establishing a state championship for girls within the next two years. There's a deep dive into the regional mindsets and the significance of the tournament's 45th anniversary.We further explore the nuances that set high school hockey apart from club hockey. It's a comparison that highlights not just geographic boundaries and resource gaps, but also the contrasting ethos and community relevance. Eric brings the spotlight to accountability in high school sports, a factor that brings unique challenges and rewards. From managing transfer players to contending with social media's impact on visibility, the episode encapsulates the myriad of experiences that come with stewarding such a massive event. 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

Sep 14, 2023 • 5min
The Ride To The Rink - The Impact of Deliberate Positivity in Team Dynamics
Ever thought about the power of your smile as you enter the rink, or how your simple hello to a teammate can change the atmosphere around you? Mike dives into the concept of deliberate positivity and the profound impact it can have on your team dynamics. We explore the ripple effect of small gestures like a smile or an engaged conversation, and how these can create a positive force that is both beneficial for your mindset and incredibly contagious. We also discuss the importance of standing up for your teammates and advocating for their viewpoints. This aspect of deliberate positivity is often overlooked, yet it carries the potential to alter the trajectory of your interactions with your teammates both in and out of the locker room. Listen in and discover how your intentional actions can set off a wave of positivity that sweeps across your team. Remember, your journey to becoming a more engaged, passionate, and positively infectious athlete starts with a smile.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

Sep 9, 2023 • 46min
When Should Parents Retreat from Coaching Youth Hockey?
Ever wondered when it's the right time for a parent to step back from coaching their child's sports team? Mike and Lee dig into this pressing question, examining how family dynamics, team requirements, and the individual experiences of the child factor in. We specifically dissect the controversies around the 12U mark, pondering the pros and cons of continued parental involvement in coaching. We also venture into the realm of autonomy in youth sports. The spotlight here is on the evolving game of hockey, the growing necessity for qualified coaches at all levels, and the intense pressure of travel schedules for younger teams. We underscore the importance of fostering independence in children and allowing them to take charge of their sporting journey. In the latter part of our discussion, we delve into the not-so-pleasant aspects of parent coaching, such as nepotism and favoritism, and how they can impact a child's development. 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

Sep 7, 2023 • 6min
The Ride To The Rink - Boosting Your Mental Fitness for Improved Hockey Performance
Shifting your focus and quieting your mind can feel like an uphill battle, especially when you have a game on the line. What if we told you that with just 10 minutes a day, you could enhance your mental agility to not only ace those games but also tackle daily life challenges with ease? This episode of Ride to the Rink explores the power of mental fitness and how simple practices can considerably improve your performance on and off the ice. From centering your attention on a single object to listening to the quietest sound in your surroundings, Lee will walk you through various techniques to sharpen your focus. Remember, what works best varies from person to person, so be patient with yourself and explore different pathways to find what suits you. The key is consistency. Practicing these exercises daily can yield powerful results, boosting your ability to maintain focus in high-pressure situations. Be sure to check out these past episodes of The Ride To The Rink that are helpful guided meditations to assist you on your mental fitness journey:- Meditation 1: https://link.chtbl.com/trttr_meditation1- Meditation 2: https://link.chtbl.com/trttr_meditation2Click 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


