In this episode of the PowerTech Development Podcast, Eric and Andy open up about the things they wish more hockey parents knew earlier - especially during the intense and emotional U16/U18 years.

With so much focus on the OHL Draft, rankings, and comparison, many families lose sight of what truly matters in a player’s long-term development. This conversation cuts through the noise and delivers honest advice rooted in experience — both as coaches and as parents.

If you’re navigating the pre-draft years, or even just trying to support your kid the right way, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.

What You’ll Learn

• Why comparison ruins joy… and progress

• The mindset that separates long-term developers from short-term hype

• What parents should stop saying (even with good intentions)

• Why rankings and draft predictions don’t tell the full story

• What actually matters at the junior level and how it’s different from youth hockey

TIMESTAMPS

02:30 – Setting proper expectations during the draft year

06:30 – “Comparison is the thief of joy” — how it shows up in hockey

07:30 – A realistic, long-term approach for families

09:40 – When parents push too hard — and why it backfires

10:15 – The problem with subscription rankings and overhype

12:00 – Don’t promise your kid where they’ll be drafted

15:00 – Outperforming others doesn’t always equal opportunity

17:30 – Evolving into a learner — not just a performer

20:00 – Don’t expect someone else’s lucky break to be yours

21:00 – “When did you become a scout?” — over-analysis from the stands

29:00 – What most don’t understand about junior hockey vs. youth hockey

35:00 – Identifying your market — where do you actually fit?

38:00 – Be willing to take the ego hit for development

42:00 – Parents: Don’t add to the emotional weight your kid already carries

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