Our Kids Play Hockey | Hockey Stories & Teamwork Tips

Welcome to the premiere episode of “Our Girls Play Hockey,” a new series within the “Our Kids Play Hockey” podcast network. In this episode, hosts Lee Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Sheri Hudspeth from the Vegas Golden Knights, dive into the intricacies of starting a girls’ youth hockey program. Our expert guest, Katelyn Parker, shares her invaluable insights and experiences.

Starting a Girls’ Hockey Program:

•Importance of having passionate leaders.

•Initial steps: Contacting district representatives and understanding rules and regulations.

•Grassroots approach: Building a sustainable program by starting at the lower levels and creating a strong pipeline.

Essential Components for a Successful Program:

•Importance of passionate leadership.

•Required resources: Ice time, uniforms, facilities, and coaches.

•Creative solutions: Utilizing different age groups and spaces to build a community and increase participation.

Challenges and Solutions:

•Overcoming hurdles in starting a new program.

•The importance of building mass numbers for a sustainable team.

•Balancing different age groups and creating inclusive environments.

Role Models and Representation:

•The impact of female coaches and role models on young players.

•Successful events and initiatives that promote girls’ hockey.

Creative Outreach and Marketing Strategies:

•Using social media and community events to spread the word.

•Collaborating with organizations like Girl Scouts and local schools.

•Hosting try hockey for free events and leveraging NHL resources.

Personal Insights and Experiences:

•Sheri and Katelyn’s experiences in growing girls’ hockey on the West Coast.

•Success stories and impactful moments from their careers.

Takeaways:

•Passion and leadership are critical in starting and sustaining a girls’ hockey program.

•Utilize available resources creatively to build a strong community.

•Promote inclusivity and create safe spaces for girls to thrive in hockey.

•Leverage social media and community events to increase visibility and participation.

If you have any questions or need further advice on starting a girls’ hockey program, feel free to reach out to the team at [email protected]. Stay tuned for more episodes of “Our Girls Play Hockey,” where we will continue to explore and discuss various topics related to girls’ youth hockey.

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In this episode of “Our Kids Play Hockey,” hosts Lee Elias and Christie Casciano Burns discuss the challenges and opportunities that come with being the new kid or new family on a hockey team. Whether you’ve switched clubs, moved to a new town, or joined a different hockey team for any reason, this episode offers valuable tips on how to integrate smoothly, make new friends, and create a positive environment. With Mike Bonelli on assignment in Norway, Lee and Christie share personal stories, practical advice, and actionable strategies to help both kids and parents navigate this transition with confidence and ease.

Key Topics:

1. Understanding the Feelings:
   1. Addressing common anxieties and apprehensions.
   2. Normalizing the feelings of nervousness and fear of the unknown.
2. Making a Positive First Impression:
   1. Importance of introducing yourself and your child to coaches and other families.
   2. Communicating effectively to build relationships and break the ice.
3. On-Ice Strategies for New Players:
   1. Observing and learning drills before trying to impress.
   2. Asking questions and seeking help when needed.
   3. Balancing between showcasing skills and being a team player.
4. Off-Ice Strategies for Parents:
   1. Getting involved appropriately without overcommitting.
   2. Building a supportive parent community.
   3. Communicating any special circumstances or needs of your child.
5. Welcoming New Teammates:
   1. How current team members and families can make new players feel included.
   2. Encouraging kids to be leaders and positive role models.
6. Dealing with Challenges:
   1. Handling potential jealousy or competition.
   2. Using new opportunities to learn and grow.

If you found value in this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Visit OurKidsPlayHockey.com for more episodes and resources. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates and more helpful content.

Stay tuned for more episodes of “Our Kids Play Hockey,” where we provide practical advice and inspiring stories for young hockey players and their families. Thanks for listening!

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Show Notes:

In this episode of “The Ride to the Rink,” host Lee Elias is joined by Division 3 hockey player and online influencer Luke Croucher. Currently playing for Neumann University, Luke shares his journey from Canada to Philadelphia and dives into the importance of building habits for success in hockey and life. They discuss how small, consistent actions can lead to significant improvements and the mental fortitude required to maintain these habits. Luke provides practical tips on creating productive routines, overcoming obstacles, and maintaining motivation.

Key Topics:

1. Introduction to Luke Croucher:
   1. Background as a Division 3 hockey player at Newman University.
   2. His role as an online influencer and content creator.
2. The Power of Habits:
   1. Importance of daily habits in becoming a better hockey player.
   2. Insights from the book “The Power of Habit” by Charles Duhigg.
   3. How 40% of daily actions are driven by habits.
3. Creating Productive Routines:
   1. Building routines to support habit formation.
   2. Example of using a home gym and the importance of consistent practice.
   3. The concept that “time has memory” and “location has energy.”
4. Mental and Emotional Aspects:
   1. Overcoming the lack of motivation and emotional challenges.
   2. Building confidence through consistency and showing up even on tough days.
5. Practical Tips for Young Players:
   1. How young players can start building habits at any age.
   2. The importance of tenacity and not being afraid to make mistakes.
   3. Encouraging a mindset of continual improvement and risk-taking.
6. Final Thoughts and Advice:
   1. The significance of parental support in helping kids build habits.
   2. Luke’s personal experiences and advice for aspiring hockey players.

Call to Action:

If you found value in this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Visit OurKidsPlayHockey.com for more episodes and resources. Be sure to follow us on social media for updates and more helpful content.

Stay tuned for more episodes of “The Ride to the Rink,” where we provide practical advice and inspiring stories for young hockey players and their families. Thanks for listening!

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Show Notes:

In this engaging episode of “Our Kids Play Hockey,” hosts Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli welcome Luke Croucher, a Division III hockey player from Neumann University with a passion for motivating, inspiring, and educating young hockey players. Luke shares his unique hockey journey from Ancaster, Ontario, to college hockey near Philadelphia, highlighting the importance of perseverance, hard work, and capturing life lessons. This episode dives into overcoming challenges, the significance of Division III hockey, and Luke’s role as a social media influencer for the youth hockey community.

Key Topics:

1. Luke Croucher’s Journey: From growing up in Ontario with UK-born parents to playing Division III hockey at Newman University.
2. Overcoming Stigmas: The value of playing Division III hockey and the dedication required to succeed.
3. Building Habits for Success: The importance of developing consistent habits early in a hockey career.
4. Role of Social Media: Luke’s approach to using social media to inspire and educate young players, and the challenges of balancing content creation with team dynamics.
5. Mental Fitness: Addressing the importance of mental health in youth sports and how to navigate emotional hurdles.
6. New Community Initiative: Luke’s free online hockey training community, My Hockey Training, aimed at providing guidance and support for aspiring players.

If you found value in this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Visit OurKidsPlayHockey.com for more episodes and resources. Follow Luke Croucher on Instagram and join his My Hockey Training community to continue your hockey journey with expert guidance and support.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice on “Our Kids Play Hockey.” Thanks for listening!

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Welcome back to another exciting edition of “The Ride To The Rink!” Today, host Lee Elias dives into a significant change coming to youth hockey players: the mandatory use of neck guards starting August 1, 2024. Whether you’re new to neck guards or have been wearing them for years, this episode offers valuable insights on how to adapt to new regulations and unexpected changes both on and off the ice. Lee emphasizes that it’s not the equipment that defines a player, but the player’s mindset and adaptability. Tune in for inspiring advice on embracing discomfort, building mental toughness, and thriving through any challenge that comes your way.

Key Takeaways:

1.Embrace Change: Understand the importance of adapting to new rules, like the mandatory neck guards, and how it can make you a stronger player.

2.Mental Toughness: Learn how top athletes thrive regardless of their equipment and how you can develop this resilience.

3.Team Commitment: Commit to changes as a team and support each other through transitions.

4.Overcoming Superstitions: Avoid letting superstitions become a crutch and focus on giving your best effort regardless of circumstances.

5.Life Skills: Discover how facing challenges in hockey can prepare you for overcoming obstacles in life and school.

Have you had to adapt to wearing a neck guard or any other unexpected changes in your hockey journey? Share your experiences and tips with us on social media using #RideToTheRink!

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Welcome back, hockey friends and families! This week on Our Kids Play Hockey, hosts Lee Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli dive into the crucial rule changes coming to USA Hockey for the 2024-25 season. From mandatory neck guards to SafeSport certification for 18U players and updated locker room policies, we cover everything you need to know to ensure a smooth start to the season. Tune in for practical advice, thoughtful discussion, and insights on how these changes will impact players, coaches, and parents alike.

Key Points:

1.Mandatory Neck Guards:

•Effective August 1st, neck guards are mandatory for all players in USA Hockey-sanctioned events.

•This rule aims to enhance player safety following tragic incidents involving neck injuries.

•Discussion on the evolution of neck guard technology and the importance of compliance.

2.SafeSport Certification for 18U Players:

•All players in the 18U age group must now complete SafeSport training.

•Benefits of this training for player development and college applications.

•Suggestions for incorporating SafeSport training as a team-building exercise.

3.Locker Room Policies:

•Requirement for a SafeSport-certified adult to be present in the locker room at all times.

•Strategies for ensuring compliance and maintaining a safe environment.

•Discussion on the importance of locker room supervision and the role of parents and coaches.

Actionable Tips:

•For Parents: Ensure your child has a compliant neck guard and encourage them to wear it at all times. Familiarize yourself with the new locker room policies and consider becoming SafeSport certified to help out.

•For Coaches: Integrate SafeSport training into your team’s pre-season activities. Develop a system for locker room supervision to meet the new requirements.

•For Players: Understand the importance of these rule changes and embrace them as part of your commitment to safety and sportsmanship.

Join the Conversation:

Have thoughts on the new rules? Join our community on Facebook, aptly titled “Our Kids Play Hockey,” and share your perspectives. Don’t forget to visit ourkidsplayhockey.com for all episodes and updates.

Subscribe and Follow:

Make sure to subscribe to Our Kids Play Hockey on your favorite podcast platform, and follow us on social media for more insights and discussions on youth hockey.

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In this inspiring episode of “The Ride to the Rink,” we are joined by, Kim Davis, an extremely high-ranking official at the NHL and a global influencer in the world of hockey. Kim shares a powerful message directly aimed at young hockey players about the importance of courage and leadership in shaping the future of the sport and society.

Join us as Kim emphasizes the vital role that today’s youth play in driving positive change, both on and off the ice. She discusses the importance of standing up for what you believe in, being a continuous learner, and having the courage to persevere through fear. Our team echos Kim’s belief in the next generation and their potential to lead us into a brighter future.

Tune in to hear more about how the NHL is rooting for you and the impact you can make as future leaders. This episode is a must-listen for any young hockey player looking for motivation and reassurance that they are an essential part of the hockey community and beyond.

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On this week's episode of “Our Kids Play Hockey,” Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli sit down with Kim Davis, the Senior Executive Vice President of Social Impact, Growth Initiatives, and Legislative Affairs for the National Hockey League.

Kim Davis is a transformative figure in hockey, working tirelessly to promote inclusivity and growth within the sport. In this episode, Kim shares her insights on the importance of youth hockey, the vital role of inclusivity, and how hockey can be a powerful tool for societal change.

Highlights:

•The Influence of Youth Hockey: Kim Davis discusses the importance of youth hockey in shaping the future of the sport and the reciprocal impact it has on adults.

•Creating Access and Inclusivity: Explore the initiatives led by Kim and the NHL to make hockey more accessible and inclusive, including the reimagining of street hockey programs.

•Building Community and Breaking Barriers: Hear about the NHL’s efforts to normalize differences, make the game more welcoming, and the importance of intentional outreach to diverse communities.

•The Role of Parents and Coaches: Learn how parents and coaches can become allies in growing the game and fostering an inclusive environment.

•Character Development: The importance of character and leadership in hockey, and how youth programs can instill these values in young players.

•The Future of Women’s Hockey: Kim shares her thoughts on the exciting growth of women’s hockey and its impact on the next generation of players.

Kim’s passion for the game and her dedication to making hockey a more inclusive and welcoming sport is truly inspiring. Whether you’re a parent, coach, player, or fan, this episode is packed with valuable insights on how we can all contribute to the growth and betterment of hockey.

Tune in and be inspired to make a difference in your hockey community!

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Welcome to a special holiday edition of "The Ride To The Rink" with Lee Elias! As we celebrate the 4th of July and reflect on Canada Day, Lee emphasizes the importance of family time during these festive occasions.

In this brief but heartfelt episode, Lee reminds us that:

• Family Time is Precious: Whether it’s family dinners, holidays, or just spending time together, being with your loved ones is invaluable.
• Family Dynamics in Hockey: The way you interact with your family can reflect on how you function within a hockey team. Coaches observe family dynamics when considering players for higher levels.
• Expressing Gratitude: Take a moment to thank your parents, guardians, and loved ones for their support and dedication. A simple acknowledgment can mean the world to them.
• Mindset Matters: Approach holidays and days off with a positive mindset, looking for opportunities to connect and appreciate your family.

Lee encourages all young hockey players to use these holidays to strengthen their family bonds, which in turn, will help them thrive within their hockey families.

Tune in for a quick yet meaningful episode that highlights the essence of family both on and off the ice. Happy 4th of July and Canada Day from "Our Kids Play Hockey"!

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In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli tackle a critical topic for hockey parents and coaches alike: burnout. Is your young athlete losing their passion for the game? Are they showing signs of exhaustion and lack of enthusiasm? Today, we delve into the three main signs of burnout in youth hockey players and provide actionable steps you can take to help them recover their love for the sport.

Episode Highlights:

1.How To Identify Burnout

2.Personal Experiences

3.Preventing Burnout

4.Parental Burnout

5.The Importance of Expanding Interests

Key Takeaways:

•Burnout can manifest in different ways, and it’s crucial to recognize the signs early.

•Open communication with your child about their feelings towards hockey is essential.

•Taking regular breaks from hockey can prevent burnout and reignite passion for the game.

•Encouraging other interests and activities can help your child develop a balanced life.

•Parents also need to be mindful of their own burnout and manage it effectively.

Thank you for joining us for this important discussion. Remember, the goal is to keep hockey fun and enjoyable for everyone involved. If you have any thoughts, questions, or personal experiences to share, please reach out to us at [email protected]. We love hearing from our community and are here to support you through your hockey journey!

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