Our Kids Play Hockey | Hockey Stories & Teamwork Tips

When the summer sun hits, every hockey parent starts facing the ultimate power play - selecting the perfect hockey camp for their young athlete. Andrew's heartfelt letter kicks off our heartfelt discussion on aligning camp choice with your child's passion and developmental stage. We lace up and glide through the myriad of options from skills camps to day camps, sharing how the right mix of fun and skill development can light the lamp for kids of all ages. And for those with sights set higher, like college hockey, we offer strategies to find a camp that's less about the flash-in-the-pan tricks and more about nurturing long-term growth, both on the ice and off.

But the game of choosing a camp isn't just about the slapshots and hat tricks. It's also about fostering a rich, well-rounded summer experience that includes cultural and social enrichment. This episode isn't just a solo breakaway; we team up with experts who share crucial play-by-plays on camp logistics, from coach-to-kid ratios to coach qualifications. And as we wrap up, we shift from the rink to the pickleball court, celebrating the joy of watching our kids dive into diverse activities, and maybe, just maybe, giving us a chance to hang up our coaching hats and simply enjoy the game from the stands. So, get your gear ready for a summer that scores big on memories, development, and good old-fashioned fun.

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In this episode of "The Ride to the Rink," host Lee Elias offers a deep dive into the mental and strategic aspects essential for hockey players and coaches as they navigate the intense periods of playoffs, big games, and tryouts. Lee shares his insights on the dynamics of winning and losing, emphasizing the importance of embracing losses as learning opportunities to achieve greater successes in hockey.

Highlights Include:

• Winning and Losing Dynamics: Lee discusses the reality that striving for significant achievements in hockey or any aspect of life comes with the risk of facing losses. He stresses the need to accept and learn from these experiences as a fundamental part of personal and athletic development.
• Value of Losses as Lessons: The concept of viewing losses as educational opportunities is presented as a crucial mindset for growth among players and coaches.
• Preparation for Key Moments: With the approach of crucial times such as playoffs and tryouts, the focus shifts to the importance of being mentally and physically prepared, highlighting the roles of teamwork and personal responsibility.
• Beyond the Ice: Lee talks about the broader implications of hockey in shaping young individuals, underlining respect, teamwork, and accountability as essential values that transcend the sport.
• Empowering Young Athletes: The episode wraps up with a motivational message for players facing evaluations or significant games, encouraging them to face challenges head-on and recognize the impact of their actions both on and off the ice.

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As youth hockey tryouts loom on the horizon, the anticipation and nerves can feel overwhelming for players and parents alike. In this insightful episode, our seasoned hosts Lee Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli dive into the heart of youth hockey's "March Madness," offering a wealth of advice on how to approach tryouts with a winning mindset.

What You'll Learn:

• Strategies for Success: Discover proven strategies for standing out during tryouts and making a lasting impression on coaches.
• Mental Preparation: Learn how to mentally prepare for the pressures of tryouts, fostering resilience and focus in young athletes.
• Physical Conditioning: Get tips on physical preparation that can give players an edge over the competition.
• Navigating the Process: Understand the importance of researching teams and aligning with the right fit for your athlete's development and happiness.

Why Listen:
Whether you're a parent navigating the tryout process for the first time or a veteran seeking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with invaluable insights. From practical advice on preparation to fostering a positive mindset, Lee, Christie, and Mike cover all the bases, ensuring you're fully equipped for the tryout season.

Don't let "March Madness" catch you off guard. Tune in to "March Madness! Preparing for Tryouts in Youth Hockey" for expert guidance and support through every step of the tryout process.

Stay ahead of the game and help your young athlete navigate tryouts with confidence. This episode is not just about making the team—it's about laying the groundwork for a successful and rewarding season ahead.

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On this week's episode of The Ride To The Rink with host Lee MJ Elias, we explore Wayne Gretzky's first NHL level encounter with championship grit and what it truly takes to win when it matters most. This episode is a treasure trove for athletes, coaches, and fans, packed with strategies, historical insights, and the mental toughness required for playoff success.

Key Highlights:

• Gretzky's Eye-Opening Experience: Discover the impactful moment when Wayne Gretzky learned a vital lesson from the New York Islanders after the 1983 Stanley Cup Finals. It's a deep dive into the sacrifices and dedication behind the Islanders' victory, setting the stage for the Oilers' future success.
• The Essence of Winning: Lee unravels the key components that contribute to a team's triumph in the playoffs, blending talent, relentless effort, and mental fortitude. Learn from the experiences of hockey legends and how their lessons apply to today's game.
• Building a Championship Mindset: This episode focuses on mental preparation and resilience, offering actionable advice for players to develop a winning mentality, handle playoff pressures, and maintain focus during critical moments.
• Strengthening Team Bonds: Emphasizing teamwork and unity, Lee discusses strategies for creating a positive team environment that fosters trust, collaboration, and mutual support, crucial for navigating the challenges of playoff hockey.
• Practical Advice for Peak Performance: Listeners will gain valuable insights into effective game preparation, performance optimization, and strategic planning, all aimed at achieving the ultimate goal—winning the championship.
• Learning from Legends: Inspired by Gretzky's revelation, this episode also touches on the importance of recognizing and appreciating the roles of support systems within the hockey community, including teammates, coaches, and family​​​​.

This episode not only celebrates the journey to championship success but also imparts timeless wisdom from hockey legends like Wayne Gretzky, making it essential listening for those aspiring to leave their mark on the ice.

Catch this episode of The Ride To The Rink with Lee MJ Elias to delve into the heart of championship culture, inspired by the greatest names in hockey. It's your guide to mastering the playoffs with the spirit of a champion.

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In this edition of Our Kids Play Hockey, we dive deep into the world of youth hockey development with Peter Robinson who is the Director of Youth Hockey Development for the Washington Capitals. With a career spanning 17 seasons with the Capitals, Peter shares his journey from a youth hockey player in Maryland to shaping the future of the sport in the DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia) area.

Key Highlights:

• Peter Robinson's Path to the Capitals: Discover how Peter's passion for hockey and his roots in Maryland led him to his dream job with the Capitals. From playing youth hockey to pursuing degrees in psychology marketing and sports marketing, Peter's journey is a testament to his dedication to the game.
• Youth Hockey Development in the DMV: Learn about the Capitals' efforts to grow the game of hockey through on and off-ice programming for all skill levels. Peter discusses the impact of NHL stars like Alex Ovechkin on local youth participation and how the Capitals are working to make hockey more accessible and inclusive.
• The Ovechkin Effect: Hear firsthand accounts of how Alex Ovechkin's influence extends beyond the rink into community development, including funding legacy ball hockey rinks to encourage more kids to embrace the sport.
• Expanding Access to Hockey: Peter highlights the importance of introducing various forms of hockey to kids, from ice hockey to street and inline hockey, emphasizing the role of community engagement and educational programs in fostering a love for the game.
• Advice for Hockey Directors: Peter shares his insights on making hockey fun and inclusive, emphasizing the long-term benefits of cultivating a passion for the sport among youth.

Join us as we explore the impactful work being done to ensure the future of hockey is bright, inclusive, and accessible to all. Whether you're a seasoned hockey family or new to the sport, this episode is packed with inspiring stories, practical advice, and a deep love for the game that unites us all.

Remember, hockey is more than just a game; it's a community that shapes lives on and off the ice. Tune in and be inspired by the power of youth hockey development!

Stay tuned for more insightful episodes of Our Kids Play Hockey, where we explore all facets of the sport from grassroots to the professional level.

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Welcome to this week's episode of "The Ride To The Rink," where we dive deep into the essential skills that make a well-rounded hockey player. Today, we're shifting the spotlight to a skill that often doesn't get as much glory as goal-scoring but is equally critical to the game's success: passing.

Episode Highlights:

• The Importance of Passing: We kick off the episode by highlighting how passing, playmaking, and assisting are vital components of hockey that players should practice diligently. Our host, Lee, alongside experts Mike Benelli and Christi Casciano Burns, discuss why being a great passer is a valuable asset on the ice.
• Mike on Passing: Mike shares his insights on the impact of effective passing on the game's dynamics. He emphasizes that players looking to score more goals should focus on moving the puck more, as it creates open spaces and opportunities. Mike argues that passing is not just about fairness but about strategic play that benefits the team.
• The Selfishness in Passing: The conversation takes an interesting turn as Mike points out that passing more can be seen as a selfish strategy for players who want to score more. By distributing the puck, players can open up space for themselves and others, making the team's offense more dynamic and unpredictable.
• Christie on Teamwork: Christie shares a heartwarming perspective on passing, relating it to the joy of seeing teammates, especially those who haven't scored yet, get an opportunity to shine. She highlights the importance of being a great teammate and the satisfaction that comes from assisting others.
• The Hall Club and Team Dynamics: Lee mentions Christie's book "The Hall Club," which tackles the issues arising from not passing the puck. The book serves as a metaphor for the importance of teamwork and the negative effects of hogging the puck on team morale and success.
• Closing Thoughts: The episode wraps up with a powerful message about the essence of hockey being a team sport. The hosts encourage young players to embrace passing as a fundamental part of their development, emphasizing that assists are as crucial as goals in building a successful hockey career.

Conclusion:
This episode of "The Ride To The Rink" sheds light on the underrated skill of passing, urging players to recognize its significance in crafting a winning team. By focusing on being excellent playmakers, players can contribute more to their team's success and enjoy the beautiful game of hockey to its fullest.

Call to Action:
Listeners are encouraged to practice their passing skills, both on and off the ice, and to always remember the value of teamwork and selflessness in hockey.

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Today, We are giving away full youth set of Duzter Hockey protective base layers that are approved for neck, wrist and ankle protection ahead of the USA Hockey mandate, which go into effect very soon.

Duzter Hockey, which is now approved for use in NHL games, was started by 16 year old Martin Negron and his father two years ago. In a short time they have quickly become the go-to brand for youth neck, wrist and ankle protection with their Duzter armor protective products

Martin was inspired to start the company after he saw a player horribly cut on the ice - he wanted to make a difference. In this quick episode we review that story and the advancements Duzter has made in a very short time. 

If you want to know more about Duzter, we have had them as guests on the Our Kid Play Hockey podcast twice. You can listen and watch those episodes here.

To enter in to win this week’s prizes:
    1.    Retrieve the code word from the episode
    2.    Enter that word and the requested into the form on https://hockeywraparound.com/blogs/the-wraparound-roundtable/d
    3.    BONUS: Follow/Subscribe to @HockeyWrapAround & @DuzterHockey on social

In this episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," we have the privilege of welcoming John Buccigross, a renowned figure in ESPN's hockey coverage and a passionate advocate for the sport. Known for his in-depth knowledge and love for hockey, Buccigross shares his journey as a hockey dad, broadcaster, and advocate for youth and college hockey.

Key Highlights:

• Buccigross's Hockey Journey: An exploration of Buccigross's path from a passionate hockey fan to a leading voice in ESPN's hockey coverage, highlighting the integral role of hockey in his family life and career.
• Parenting in Youth Hockey: Buccigross shares insights on the delicate balance between providing encouragement and applying pressure in youth sports. He emphasizes the importance of energy, creativity, selflessness, and affection in nurturing young athletes.
• Coaching Challenges and Rewards: Discussing his own coaching experiences, Buccigross talks about the need to adapt coaching styles to fit the diverse needs and sensitivities of young players, ensuring a positive and growth-oriented environment.
• Redefining Winning: The conversation shifts to the concept of success in sports, advocating for a broader definition that includes teamwork, perseverance, humility, and the personal growth that comes from participation in sports.
• Impact of Specialization: Buccigross expresses concerns about the trend toward early sports specialization. He advocates for a more balanced approach, encouraging kids to participate in multiple sports to foster a broad skill set and prevent burnout.
• Support for ACHA and College Hockey: Highlighting his support for the American Collegiate Hockey Association and college hockey, Buccigross discusses the importance of platforms that allow players to continue their hockey careers beyond youth sports.
• Tribute to Barry Melrose: Buccigross pays tribute to Barry Melrose, discussing their friendship, Melrose's battle with Parkinson's disease, and initiatives to support the Parkinson's community.

John's journey offers a compelling look at the hockey's impact on family, the development of young athletes, and the community. His stories and insights provide valuable lessons not just for those involved in hockey, but for anyone navigating the challenges of mentoring young individuals.

Call To Action

Check out https://www.assistmelrose.com/ to buy shirts in support of Barry.

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In this week's episode of "The Ride to the Rink," our hosts Lee, Mike, and Christie dive into the crucial phase of the hockey season where the weather starts to warm up, and distractions abound. They discuss the importance of commitment to hockey, balancing multiple sports, and strategies for staying focused both on and off the ice.

Key Highlights:

• Commitment to Hockey: The hosts emphasize the importance of fulfilling commitments to your hockey team, even as the season winds down and other sports or outdoor activities become tempting. They remind listeners that being part of a team means seeing your commitment through to the end.
• Balancing Multiple Sports: Recognizing that many hockey players are multi-sport athletes, Mike shares his insights on the benefits of playing various sports for overall skill development. However, he stresses the importance of communication with coaches and careful scheduling to avoid burnout and injuries.
• Staying Focused: The episode touches on the challenges of maintaining focus during the latter part of the season, especially as the weather improves and the desire to be outdoors increases. The hosts offer practical advice for integrating outdoor activities without sacrificing hockey skills or team responsibilities.
• Injury Prevention and Health: With the increase in activities, the hosts discuss the importance of pacing oneself to prevent injuries. They underscore the need for athletes to listen to their bodies, communicate with coaches and parents, and ensure they're not overextending themselves.
• Communication is Key: A recurring theme throughout the episode is the importance of open communication with coaches, parents, and teammates. Whether it's feeling burned out, needing a day off for another sport, or just balancing life's demands, the hosts encourage young athletes to speak up and seek guidance.

As the episode wraps up, the hosts circle back to the core message of commitment, focus, and balance. They encourage young athletes to enjoy the journey, make the most of their multi-sport experiences, and remember the value of their commitments to their teams and themselves.

Call to Action:
Listeners are encouraged to stay engaged with their teams, communicate openly with their coaches and parents, and keep pushing through to the end of the season with the same passion and dedication they've shown all year.

Join us next time on "The Ride to the Rink" for more discussions on growing, learning, and thriving in the world of youth hockey.

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Chase Barud from Ice Warehouse joins Mike, Christie and Lee this week on Our Kids Play Hockey to arm you with the insider knowledge you need for your next hockey gear shopping adventure. Chase is here as our guide, drawing back the curtain on what it truly means to select equipment that amplifies your game without succumbing to the hype of the latest and greatest.

As we navigate the realm of hockey equipment choices, we delve into the nuances of balancing cost with performance. The heart of our conversation shares practical wisdom, such as understanding when a mid-range piece of gear might serve you better than the new, flashy, top-tier options. We share personal anecdotes and tackle the real quandaries that face players at every level – from those stepping onto the ice for the first time to seasoned vets. 

As always, your questions and insights are the fuel for our discussions, and we can't wait to bring you more content that helps you navigate the hockey world with confidence. Whether you're here for the stories, the strategies, or the sheer love of the game, know that this is the place where your passion for hockey finds its voice.

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