What does it take to create champions both in sports and life? 

For Gordie Stafford, it’s a blend of discipline, teamwork, and a lifelong passion for mentorship.

In this episode, Larry Sprung sits down with Gordie Stafford, Girls Prep Head Coach and Director of Girls Hockey at Shattuck Hockey.

Gordie touches on how hockey can instill life skills, the importance of developing good character, and fostering a winning mindset. From shaping the next generation of female hockey stars to his enduring love for teaching English, Gordie shares his reflections on making a difference through sport and education.

Gordie discusses:

• The transformative lessons sports teach and their relevance to life 
• His philosophy of nurturing both athletic skill and personal character in young athletes
• The evolving opportunities in women's hockey and his role in paving the way for players
• How fostering gratitude, joy, and resilience shapes success on and off the ice
• The critical role of mentorship and creating an environment of mutual growth for students and coaches
• And more!

Resources:

• Mitlin Financial  
• The JOY and Productivity Journal by Lawrence Sprung 
• Download Your Free Copy of the Couple’s JOYful Money Guide

Connect with Larry Sprung: 

• LinkedIn: Larry Sprung
• Instagram: Larry Sprung
• Facebook: Larry Sprung
• X (Twitter): Larry Sprung

Connect with Gordie Stafford: 

• LinkedIn - Gordie Stafford
• X  -  @GordieStafford
• Instagram  - gordiestafford
• Facebook – Gordie Stafford

About our Guest:

Gordie Stafford, born in Banff, Canada, signed with the Edmonton Oilers after three seasons in the Western Hockey League. During his eight-year professional hockey career, primarily with the Milwaukee Admirals, he earned a degree in Secondary Education and a master’s in Educational Psychology.

He began teaching and coaching at Marquette University High School before coaching the St. Albert Saints in Canada. Since 2000, Stafford has been at Shattuck-St. Mary’s School in Minnesota, where he became Girls’ Hockey Director and Prep Coach in 2004. Under his leadership, the program has won 17 national championships, including 10 by the Prep team.

Stafford has guided players to Olympic competition, Division I success, and prestigious honors like the Patty Kazmaier Award. Inspired by his work, he pursued a PhD (ABD) in Sports Psychology. Married for 40 years, he is a proud father and grandfather. His son, Drew, had a 14-year NHL career.

Disclosure:

Guests on the Mitlin Money Mindset are not affiliated with CWM, LLC, and opinions expressed herein may not be representative of CWM, LLC. CWM, LLC is not responsible for the guest's content linked on this site.