Tournaments and Showcases are about who can handle the grind.

In this episode of the Built From Steel Podcast, Eric and Andy break down the mental and physical demands of tournament weekends and why so many teams and players can fall apart over just a few days.

From preparation to pressure, they unpack what it really takes to perform when the schedule is stacked, emotions are high, and there’s nowhere to hide.

This episode covers everything from managing your prep to being ready when opportunity knocks. Whether you're a player looking to stay consistent, a parent navigating the chaos, or a coach leading your team through high-stakes hockey, this one’s for you.

Key Moments:

0:00 – Intro

2:30 – Navy SEAL book and mindset carryover

5:00 – Coaching to change lives — intention beyond hockey

11:20 – “It’s not just about hockey”

14:35 – Tone vs message — how players receive coaching

23:50 – The leader sets the tone

26:00 – Tournament culture intro

28:40 – Why tournaments matter

31:20 – At what age does tournament preparation really matter?

37:20 – Why showcase preparation makes all the difference

42:50 – Key things to prepare for extended weekends

45:45 – Don’t make big games bigger than they are

48:30 – Mental resilience: shake it off and reset

54:15 – Be ready when opportunity shows up

1:01:10 – Learn and earn — why every rep matters

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The Built From Steel Podcast is a division of BioSteel Sports.Learn more at www.biosteel.com