In Episode ___ of The Hockey Lab Podcast, Coach A and Coach Gards sit down with GRP coach Mateo DeBlasio to unpack one of the most unconventional hockey journeys we've ever featured.

From house league at 12 years old… to AA, AAA, Junior C, OJHL, NOJHL, GOJHL, D3 NCAA, and even pro hockey in the FPHL—Mateo's path is the definition of non-linear. His story is a masterclass in persistence, late development, and staying in love with the grind.

We dive into:

• How he went from 3-on-3 and house league to AAA in five years • Recovering from major injuries: ACL tears, shoulder surgeries, and setbacks • The reality of Junior hockey travel, trades, and instability • What D3 NCAA hockey is ACTUALLY like today • Fed League chaos, stories, and how the league really works • Why skill development and hockey IQ have changed in modern minor hockey • What young players need to understand about patience, confidence, and progression

Mateo also shares what he's learned now as a GRP strength coach, on-ice coach, and U15 AAA coach—including how today's kids differ from his generation, and why the best players are the ones who stay consistent year after year.

Whether you're a young player, a parent, or a coach, this episode is packed with real lessons from a real hockey life.

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8 Days of In-Season Tips

We're on a mission to help 1 million hockey players level up their game. If that sounds like something you'd be interested in, then don't miss our weekly episodes. We'll share our experiences, interview some of the top players in the game (old and new), and provide you with actionable tips — things that actually make you a better player.

The Hosts

Coach Adrian (A) @championshiplifestyle Head Strength Coach at Gary Roberts Performance. Fun Fact – Fought professionally in MMA for nearly a decade.

Coach Ryan (Gards) On-Ice Coach at Gary Roberts Performance. Veteran of over 1000 NLA (Switzerland's Top League) games, 5 Spengler Cups, 3 World Championships, and 1 Olympics. Fun Fact – His grandfather Cal is a "Top 100 Leaf of All Time."

Gary Roberts Performance hosts this podcast. If you're looking to take your game to the next level, GRP offers comprehensive training programs for elite hockey players.

👉 Click the link below to Book a Call with a GR Coach. IG: @garyrobertshpt #TheHockeyLabPodcast #HockeyNutrition #PlayerDevelopment #HockeyTraining #AthleteFuel