Puck Academy

In this episode of Puck Academy, host Jason Jacobs interviews Jamie Rice, the head coach of Babson College's men's ice hockey team. Rice, a Babson alum and experienced coach, shares insights from his 21-year tenure, including his unconventional coaching methods that emphasize development, empowerment, and game-based learning over traditional drills. The discussion also explores broader themes of youth sports, parenting, and coaching philosophy, as well as the challenges facing modern college sports. Both enlightening and reflective, this episode provides a deep dive into what it takes to cultivate a successful and cohesive hockey program. 00:00 Introduction to Puck Academy 00:16 Meet Coach Jamie Rice 01:27 Coach Rice's Unique Coaching Philosophy 03:06 Personal Connections and Background 06:21 Growing Up in Newton 09:42 The Importance of Team and Sports 12:39 Goals and Aspirations 22:34 Recruitment and Team Building 26:54 Parenting and Youth Sports 47:15 Practice Philosophy and Methods 48:49 Self-Learning and Coaching Philosophy 49:40 Over-Coaching in Sports 50:15 Planning and Key Points in Practice 52:50 Influences and Inspirations 58:13 Challenges in Division One Hockey 01:06:48 Commitment to Player Development 01:12:40 Entrepreneurial Insights and Reflections 01:13:19 The Role of Individual Skill Development 01:30:03 Parental Influence and Societal Expectations 01:33:51 Final Thoughts and Reflections Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

In this episode of Puck Academy, host Jason Jacobs interviews Dwayne Blais, a Hockey Canada certified skills coach currently working with the Detroit Red Wings. They discuss Dwayne's extensive experience in player development with teams like the London Knights, Hershey Bears, and Washington Capitals, as well as his work with youth hockey through his company, Total Package Hockey (TPH). The conversation covers Dwayne's journey from his late start in hockey to coaching, the importance of fundamentals like stick-handling and scanning the ice, and the challenges and strategies of developing elite hockey talent. They also touch on topics like balancing skill development with a love for the game, the role of technology and analytics, and the changing landscape of hockey development pathways. Throughout, Dwayne emphasizes creating good people and maintaining a balanced perspective on the sport. 00:00 Introduction to Puck Academy 00:15 Meet Dwayne Blais: Hockey Skills Coach 01:23 Dwayne's Journey in Hockey 04:47 The Importance of Skill Development 06:54 Starting Total Package Hockey 12:48 Transition from Player to Coach 19:14 The Rise of Private Hockey Schools 24:00 Balancing Hockey and Life 32:42 Parental Influence on Athletic Development 34:19 Balancing Encouragement and Accountability 35:48 Personal Reflections on Parenting Styles 36:59 The Role of Self-Motivation in Sports 38:52 Challenges of Modern Youth Sports 41:16 Outdoor Rinks and Unstructured Play 44:50 Accessibility and Resources in Competitive Sports 49:58 Teaching Hockey IQ and Skills 55:54 The Importance of Communication and Scanning 01:02:00 Coaching Strategies for Skill Development 01:06:56 Accountability and Skill Development at Home 01:10:10 The Role of Coaches in Player Development 01:13:51 Analytics vs. Eye Test in Hockey 01:21:47 Teaching Hockey IQ and Player Development 01:32:18 Changes in the Development Path and NCAA 01:38:47 Final Thoughts on Hockey Development Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

In this episode of Puck Academy, host Jason Jacobs delves into the intricate world of college hockey with Scott McDougall, Senior Associate Head Coach for Sacred Heart University's Men's Hockey Program. Scott shares insights from his extensive coaching career, starting from his days as a player at the University of Connecticut, through his coaching stints at Wesleyan and the Neponset Valley River Rats. They discuss the challenges of recruiting in a constantly shifting landscape, the impact of the CHL and pro players on college hockey, and the vital elements in player development and scouting. Scott recounts a recent ordeal during a recruiting trip to Canada, reflecting on the unpredictabilities of a coach's life on the road. The episode offers a candid look at the pressures, changes, and joys of coaching college hockey today. 00:00 Introduction to Puck Academy 00:15 Meet Scott McDougall: Sacred Heart's Senior Associate Head Coach 00:33 Scott's Journey and Career Highlights 01:19 Challenges and Changes in College Hockey 02:35 A Crazy Recruiting Story 07:48 Life on the Road as a Coach 08:59 Jason's Personal Hockey Journey 11:01 Scott's Early Hockey Days 12:42 Coaching Philosophy and Changes Over Time 15:23 Transition to Coaching and the River Rats 21:17 The Evolution of Sacred Heart's Hockey Program 22:04 The Role of Family in Hockey Development 26:22 The Role of Recruiting in College Hockey 28:10 Balancing Early Talent Identification and Development 29:45 The Importance of Competitiveness 33:52 Navigating the Path to College Hockey 39:40 Challenges in College Hockey Recruiting 40:31 The Impact of Changes in College Hockey 45:11 Adapting to the Evolving Landscape 51:23 Advice for Aspiring Players and Coaches 53:38 Concluding Thoughts on the Future of Hockey Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

In this episode of Puck Academy, host Jason Jacobs interviews Mike Snee, Vice President of Foundation and Community Relations for the Minnesota Wild. Mike speaks about his extensive career in hockey, including his tenure as Executive Director of College Hockey Inc. and Minnesota Hockey. He discusses the unique community-oriented model of hockey in Minnesota, emphasizing the importance of public ice facilities and local participation. The conversation also explores the challenges of maintaining this model amidst the privatization of youth sports, and why it is crucial to preserving and growing the sport in Minnesota. Additionally, Mike explains the new 'Skate It Forward' initiative aimed at making hockey more accessible and ensuring continuous player participation across the state. 00:00 Introduction to Puck Academy 00:15 Meet Mike Snee: A Hockey Visionary 01:34 Mike's Journey in Hockey 01:58 The Minnesota Hockey Model 02:06 Community vs. Privatized Youth Sports 06:20 Mike's Early Life and Hockey Passion 12:07 The State of Hockey: Minnesota's Unique Approach 23:05 The Role of Community Ice Facilities 30:38 Comparing Rink Ownership Models: Massachusetts vs. Minnesota 32:20 Philanthropy in Minnesota Hockey: The Skated Forward Initiative 33:52 Making Hockey Accessible: Overcoming Cost Barriers 36:35 The Big Wild Program: Introducing Kids to Hockey 38:14 The Minnesota Model: Community-Based Hockey Development 39:44 Historical Context: The Evolution of Hockey in Minnesota 43:16 Challenges and Opportunities: Privatized vs. Community Hockey 45:38 The Importance of Youth Participation in Hockey 47:48 Minnesota's Success: Producing Top-Level Hockey Players 56:38 Concluding Thoughts: The Future of Minnesota Hockey Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

 In this episode of Puck Academy, host Jason Jacobs talks with Peter Masters, owner and program director of the Junior Bruins and co-founder of Masters Academy International. Peter shares insights from his extensive experience in player development and club hockey, detailing the growth of the Junior Bruins, the evolution of youth hockey in New England, and the challenges and triumphs of founding New England's first academy combining elite sports and top-tier academics. He also discusses the significance of individual skill, player IQ, and the role of family in athletic development. The episode delves into the ambitious vision behind Masters Academy International, its comprehensive facilities, and the rigorous planning and partnerships that are bringing this pioneering school to life. 00:00 Introduction to Puck Academy 00:18 Meet Peter Masters: Junior Bruins Legacy 01:51 The Evolution of Junior Hockey 02:28 Masters Academy International: A New Venture 03:12 Peter's First Podcast Experience 04:34 Growing Up with Hockey: Peter and Chris 09:07 The Origin Story of the Junior Bruins 14:49 The Junior Hockey Experience 17:46 Player Development and Early Specialization 22:43 Family Influence in Hockey 25:30 Balancing Push and Passion in Youth Sports 30:41 The Changing Landscape of Youth Hockey 31:50 The Role of Club Teams and Tournaments 36:23 The State of Hockey Today 38:39 Development Inside and Outside the Team 41:10 Skill vs. IQ in Modern Hockey 46:23 Reflecting on Past Hockey Experiences 47:50 Transition to Building a Youth Hockey Academy 48:26 Challenges in Recruiting and Competing with Prep Schools 49:27 Conceptualizing a New Prep School Model 55:51 Finding the Right Property for the Academy 01:01:07 Securing Funding and Overcoming Obstacles 01:14:00 Building the Academy: Facilities and Staff 01:17:20 Recruitment Strategies and Enrollment Goals 01:21:54 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Prospective Students Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

In this episode of Puck Academy, host Jason Jacobs discusses the growth and development of hockey players both on and off the ice with guest Trevor Edwards. Trevor, who is a former varsity hockey player at Clarkson University and the current GM of the Dubuque Fighting Saints in the USHL, shares his extensive experience in player development. He also discusses his role in the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite Youth organization. The conversation covers a range of topics, including the evolution of the game, self-direction, the role of parents and coaches, and the balance between structure and creativity. They delve into the importance of environment and decision-making in player development, and explore whether hockey IQ can be taught. Trevor also offers advice to parents on selecting the right developmental environment for their children. This episode provides valuable insights for anyone involved in the world of hockey. 00:00 Introduction to Puck Academy 00:15 Meet Trevor Edwards 00:47 Trevor's Journey and Involvement in Hockey 01:00 Discussion on Player Development and Coaching 01:35 Starting the Interview: Trevor's Initial Reaction 06:48 Trevor's Coaching Philosophy and Experience 11:53 The Role of Environment in Player Development 22:06 Balancing Structure and Creativity in Hockey 27:57 Scouting and Coaching: Eyes vs. Data 31:33 Self-Direction and Holistic Development 35:57 Athlete-Led Development 37:13 Balancing Structure and Fun in Youth Sports 38:31 The Role of Parents and Coaches 39:48 Creating a Positive Team Environment 41:34 Challenges in Youth Sports Development 46:19 Teaching Hockey IQ 59:34 Assessing Coaching Quality 01:02:36 Final Thoughts and Parting Words Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

In this episode of Puck Academy, host Jason Jacobs sits down with Ryan Kosecki, GM of Youngstown Phantoms, Assistant GM for the Maryland Black Bears, Co-General Manager of Junior Hockey at Black Bear Sports Group, and Head Coach for the Fox Motors U16 AAA team. Ryan shares his extensive experience in hockey, discussing his career trajectory and insights into the evolving landscape of the sport. Key topics include the impact of recent rule changes, the role of technology and analytics, the importance of balancing fun with competitiveness in youth hockey, and the intricacies of scouting and player development. Ryan also addresses the challenges of making hockey more accessible and the role of data in enhancing player performance. 00:00 Introduction to Puck Academy 00:15 Meet Ryan Kosecki: A Multifaceted Hockey Manager 04:01 Ryan's Journey in Hockey 05:50 Changes in the Game: Then and Now 08:01 Balancing Fun and Competitiveness in Youth Hockey 11:06 Traits of Impact Players 13:45 Teaching Competitiveness and Hockey IQ 16:20 The Role of Video in Player Development 19:24 The Importance of Skill Coaches 24:05 Late Bloomers and the Path to Success 29:43 Balancing Development and Competition in Youth Hockey 32:47 The Unique Nature of Hockey Scouting 35:21 Evaluating Players: Beyond the Basics 39:06 The Role of GMs and Coaches in Junior Hockey 42:12 Challenges and Trends in Growing the Game 49:04 The Future of Analytics and Technology in Hockey 55:28 Final Thoughts and Parting Words Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Exploring the Future of College Hockey with Sean Hogan from College Hockey Inc. In this episode of Puck Academy, host Jason Jacobs welcomes Sean Hogan, Executive Director of College Hockey Inc. They discuss the origins, mission, and strategic priorities of the nonprofit organization which is dedicated to promoting college hockey. Key topics include the evolution of development pathways in hockey, the impact of rule changes on the sport, and the importance of making hockey more accessible. Hogan details various initiatives College Hockey Inc. is working on, such as conducting feasibility studies for new college teams and participating in events like the Spengler Cup. The conversation also delves into the challenges and opportunities in the current landscape of youth and collegiate hockey. 00:00 Introduction to Puck Academy 00:28 Meet Sean Hogan: Executive Director of College Hockey Inc. 00:44 The Evolution and Mission of College Hockey Inc. 01:42 Strategic Priorities and Development Pathways 02:13 Discussion on Rule Changes and Their Implications 02:25 Sean Hogan's Vision for the Future of Hockey 02:33 Starting the Interview: Sean Hogan's Background 03:40 Overview of College Hockey Inc.'s Activities 04:17 Feasibility Studies and Partnerships 04:41 Research and Education Initiatives 05:29 The Importance of College Hockey in Player Development 05:43 Historical Context and Rule Changes 07:21 NHL's Support and the Importance of College Hockey 08:57 Measuring Success and Increasing College Hockey's Profile 11:31 Challenges and Opportunities in Expanding College Hockey 14:58 Barriers to Growth and Facility Challenges 16:34 Convincing Schools to Add Hockey Programs 19:29 Balancing Trends and Steering the Future 20:40 Elevating College Hockey's Profile 23:47 Geographical Trends and Player Sources 24:59 Trickle-Down Effects of Rule Changes 26:40 NIL and Transfer Portal Impact 27:55 Third Party NIL and Player Opportunities 29:14 Funding College Hockey Programs 30:56 Youth Hockey Accessibility Issues 34:10 High School vs. Club Hockey Debate 38:26 Prep School and Junior Hockey Trends 42:56 College Hockey's Strategic Priorities 45:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

Navigating the Path to Hockey Success with Francis Anzalone In this episode of Puck Academy, host Jason Jacobs interviews Francis Anzalone, Chief Operating Officer at Total Package Hockey (TPH). Francis shares his journey from growing up as the son of renowned hockey coach Frank Anzalone to becoming a successful coach himself. They discuss his coaching philosophy, the evolution of hockey, and the challenges today's aspiring players face. Key topics include the importance of perseverance, individualized coaching, and balancing player development with winning. Francis also touches on the role of parents, the impact of the transfer portal, NIL, and the changing landscape of youth hockey. The episode underscores the significance of creating positive, growth-oriented environments for young athletes. 00:00 Introduction to Puck Academy 00:15 Meet Francis Anzalone 01:20 Francis' Coaching Journey 07:21 Francis' Coaching Philosophy 10:46 The Changing Landscape of Hockey 13:53 Parental Involvement in Youth Hockey 19:29 Navigating the Hockey System 26:02 Individualized Coaching Approaches 32:39 The Debate on Natural Talent vs. Development 35:43 Debating the Role of Volunteer Coaches 38:23 The Importance of Fun in Youth Sports 42:33 Balancing Skill Development and Team Concepts 46:15 Winning vs. Development in Youth Sports 51:16 Parental Involvement in Youth Sports 53:44 Navigating Player Development and Coaching Challenges 58:02 Balancing Academics and Athletics 01:01:37 Impact of Recent Changes in the Sport 01:06:54 Final Thoughts and Advice for Parents Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).

In this episode of Puck Academy, host Jason Jacobs interviews Coach Paul Cannata, a seasoned hockey coach with over 30 years of experience in NCAA and New England Prep hockey. They discuss the changes in the sport over the years, player development paths, the balance between sports and academics, and the pressures of specialization in youth sports. Coach Cannata shares insights on the importance of multi-sport participation for overall athletic development, the impact of privatized rinks, and finding the right balance as parents. They also explore the future of hockey, including challenges like inclusivity, individual skills training, and the evolving landscape of the game. The episode offers valuable lessons not just about hockey but about life and personal growth. 00:00 Introduction to Puck Academy 00:15 Meet Coach Paul Cannata 00:26 Coach Cannata's Early Career 00:50 Transforming Milton Academy's Hockey Program 01:19 Personal Reflections and Wisdom 01:39 In-Depth Discussion with Coach Cannata 01:55 The Evolution of Youth Hockey 02:08 Parenting and Coaching Insights 05:49 The Changing Landscape of Youth Sports 14:15 Balancing Sports and Life 16:49 The Importance of Multi-Sport Participation 20:28 Navigating the Pressures of Specialization 30:06 Balancing Professional and Personal Life 33:12 Challenges of Modern Education and Sports 33:46 Balancing Parenting and Independence 34:38 Navigating Academic and Athletic Opportunities 36:11 The Pressure of Competitive Sports 38:11 Choosing the Right School for Your Child 38:57 The Challenges of High School Sports 41:39 The Role of Family Decisions in Sports 43:30 Changes in the Hockey Landscape 45:27 Development and Training in Hockey 47:32 Inclusivity and Athlete Development 50:27 The New England Hockey Model 53:31 The Importance of Practice Environment 57:50 Reflections on a Coaching Career 59:55 Parting Thoughts and Final Reflections Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).