What truly defines a successful young athlete in today's competitive world?

In this compelling episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, performance coach Kevin Neeld joins Lee and Christie to share insights from his work with the Boston Bruins and beyond. From the traits of successful NHL players to the critical role of sleep and nutrition, Neeld offers a treasure trove of advice for parents and coaches aiming to nurture young talent.

🔥 Highlights Include:

• The key characteristics that set NHL players apart 🏆
• Practical tips for optimizing sleep and nutrition for young athletes 💤🥦
• Navigating mental health and pressure in youth sports 🧠
• Effective training methods that balance strength and speed 💪
• Understanding individual differences in athlete development 🌟

Whether you're a parent, coach, or young player, this episode is packed with actionable strategies, expert advice, and inspiring stories that extend far beyond the ice.

🎧 Listen now to discover how to support the next generation of hockey stars!

📖 Explore more at Kevin Neeld's website: kevinneeld.com

💬 Got questions? Share your thoughts with us at [email protected].

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Hockey IQ: Scanning the ice, recognizing pressure, anticipating what happens next, making the right decision faster. Research shows these perceptual and decision-making skills can actually be trained. With NHL Sense Arena, kids can get extra game-like reps at home, working on hockey IQ, reactions, real stick-handling for skaters, while goalies can train reads and tracking. Save $25 on an annual plan with code OKPH at http://hockey.sensearena.com/okph

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Tryout season is here, and whether you’re heading to the rink feeling confident or battling nerves, we’re here to help you approach it with the right mindset. In this episode of The Ride to the Rink, Lee, Mike, and Sherry break down what you can control, what really matters in an evaluation, and how to set yourself up for success—both on and off the ice.

We’ll talk about:

✅ How to manage nerves and set a strong mental outlook

✅ Why most teams already have a roster in mind—and what that means for you

✅ The importance of preparation, from gear checks to pre-tryout routines

✅ What coaches really look for during tryouts

✅ How being a great teammate can make a difference

Plus, we’ve got advice for parents—because your role in this process is just as important! Whether this is your first eval or your tenth, this episode is packed with insights to help you skate onto the ice with confidence.

🎧 Listen now and get ready to bring your best to tryouts!

#Hockey #YouthHockey #HockeyTryouts #HockeyEvals #HockeyMindset #TryoutTips #HockeyTraining #HockeyParents #HockeyLife #HockeyDevelopment #SkateHard #GameReady #HockeyMotivation #Teamwork #BeAGoodTeammate #TheRideToTheRink #OurKidsPlayHockey

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Hockey IQ: Scanning the ice, recognizing pressure, anticipating what happens next, making the right decision faster. Research shows these perceptual and decision-making skills can actually be trained. With NHL Sense Arena, kids can get extra game-like reps at home, working on hockey IQ, reactions, real stick-handling for skaters, while goalies can train reads and tracking. Save $25 on an annual plan with code OKPH at http://hockey.sensearena.com/okph

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🏒 Ever wondered what it takes to succeed both on and off the ice? Lindsay Pennal from the NHL Coaches Association shares her insights on achieving success in hockey and beyond. With hosts Lee MJ Elias and Sheri Hudspeth, this episode of "Ride to the Rink" is packed with valuable advice for young players.

Key Highlights:

- Role of the NHL Coaches Association: Discover how they support coaches with off-ice matters and share knowledge globally.

- Guiding Principles for Success: Lindsay's three core principles—work hard, be kind, and stay curious—are essential for any aspiring athlete.

- Staying Present: Learn the importance of focusing on immediate goals rather than distant outcomes.

- Lifelong Learning: Embrace continuous learning as a key to staying ahead in the game.

Lindsay's wisdom, drawn from Stanley Cup-winning coaches, emphasizes staying grounded and prepared. Her message? "Go get it. Go crush it. Win the day." Whether you're lacing up your skates or planning your next career move, this episode offers inspiration and practical advice.

#RideToTheRink #HockeySuccess #NHLCoaches #YouthHockey #LifelongLearning

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Hockey IQ: Scanning the ice, recognizing pressure, anticipating what happens next, making the right decision faster. Research shows these perceptual and decision-making skills can actually be trained. With NHL Sense Arena, kids can get extra game-like reps at home, working on hockey IQ, reactions, real stick-handling for skaters, while goalies can train reads and tracking. Save $25 on an annual plan with code OKPH at http://hockey.sensearena.com/okph

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In this  episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, hosts Lee MJ Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Sheri Hudspeth, tackle the often daunting world of youth hockey tryouts. They share personal stories and professional insights to guide parents and players through the pressures and misconceptions of the tryout process, emphasizing the importance of long-term development over immediate team placements.

🔥 Highlights Include:

• The reality behind youth hockey tryouts and evaluations 🏒
• Essential preparation tips for players and parents 📋
• How coaches evaluate players and select teams 🎯
• The critical role of parental support during tryouts 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• Balancing competitive spirit with fun in youth hockey practices ⚖️
  
  

Whether you're a parent, player, or coach, this episode is packed with practical advice, heartfelt stories, and valuable lessons that extend beyond the rink.

🎧 Listen now to gain insights into creating a positive hockey culture and fostering long-term player development!

💬 Got questions? Share your thoughts with us at [email protected].

Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!

Hockey IQ: Scanning the ice, recognizing pressure, anticipating what happens next, making the right decision faster. Research shows these perceptual and decision-making skills can actually be trained. With NHL Sense Arena, kids can get extra game-like reps at home, working on hockey IQ, reactions, real stick-handling for skaters, while goalies can train reads and tracking. Save $25 on an annual plan with code OKPH at http://hockey.sensearena.com/okph

Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!

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Are you ready to elevate your hockey game by practicing like a pro? 🏒 

This week's "Ride to the Rink" dives into the essentials of equipment usage and safety gear, ensuring young players and their parents are well-prepared for both practice and play. Christie Casciano, Lee MJ Elias, and Mike Bonelli share invaluable insights on selecting, experimenting with, and maintaining hockey gear—especially neck guards—to maximize comfort and safety.

Key Points to Explore:

• Neck Guard Necessity: Discover why wearing neck guards during practice is crucial for safety.
• Equipment Experimentation: Learn how practice is the perfect time to test different gear for the best fit.
• Comfort Over Brand: Understand why comfort should trump brand names when choosing equipment.
• Proper Fit and Comfort: Find out why the best gear is the one that feels right, not the most expensive.
• Hygiene and Maintenance: Get tips on keeping your equipment clean and odor-free.

Got questions or need advice? Reach out at [email protected].

 #RideToTheRink #HockeySafety #YouthHockey #EquipmentEssentials

Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!

Hockey IQ: Scanning the ice, recognizing pressure, anticipating what happens next, making the right decision faster. Research shows these perceptual and decision-making skills can actually be trained. With NHL Sense Arena, kids can get extra game-like reps at home, working on hockey IQ, reactions, real stick-handling for skaters, while goalies can train reads and tracking. Save $25 on an annual plan with code OKPH at http://hockey.sensearena.com/okph

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How do we get more women behind the bench in hockey? Lindsay Pennal, the Executive Director of the NHL Coaches Association, joins Our Girls Play Hockey to share her journey in leading the NHLCA, the impact of the Female Coaches Development Program, and the steps being taken to create more opportunities for women in coaching.

Lindsay opens up about her unconventional path into the hockey world, the importance of networking, and how the NHLCA is helping shape the next generation of coaches—both male and female. She also discusses Jessica Campbell’s historic milestone as the first full-time female coach in the NHL and other rising stars to watch.

🔥 Episode Highlights Include:

• The vision behind the NHLCA's Female Coaches Development Program 🌟

• Success stories of women breaking into professional hockey coaching 🏆

• Applying NHL coaching practices to youth hockey for better development 🏒

• Essential resources and initiatives for aspiring coaches 📚

• Lindsay's personal journey and leadership insights in the hockey world 🌍

Whether you're an aspiring coach, a player, or a fan, this episode is packed with inspiring stories, practical advice, and a vision for a more inclusive future in hockey.

🎧 Listen now to discover how Lindsay Pennal and the NHLCA are shaping the future of hockey coaching!

Want to attend the 2025 NHLCA Global Coaches’ Clinic? Click here to learn more: https://www.nhlcaclinic.com/event/NHLCA2025/home

💬 Got questions? Share your thoughts with us at [email protected]

#HockeyCoaching #GrowTheGame #OurGirlsPlayHockey #WomenInHockey #CoachingDevelopment

Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!

Hockey IQ: Scanning the ice, recognizing pressure, anticipating what happens next, making the right decision faster. Research shows these perceptual and decision-making skills can actually be trained. With NHL Sense Arena, kids can get extra game-like reps at home, working on hockey IQ, reactions, real stick-handling for skaters, while goalies can train reads and tracking. Save $25 on an annual plan with code OKPH at http://hockey.sensearena.com/okph

Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!

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What do the latest USA Hockey rule changes mean for your young athlete's game?

In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, hosts Lee, Christie, and Mike break down the latest USA Hockey rule updates for the 2025 season. From team composition to equipment regulations, these changes are set to impact youth, girls, high school, and adult hockey leagues. Discover how these modifications aim to enhance safety, respect, and skill development on the ice.

🔥 Highlights Include:

• New team composition rules expanding rosters from 21 to 22 players 🏒
• Mandatory HECC or BNQ certified neck protectors for all youth players 🛡️
• Ban on electronic devices during games to maintain focus and integrity 📵
• Stricter penalties for abuse of officials to foster respect and sportsmanship ⚖️
• Reintroduction of icing while shorthanded for players 15 and older ❄️

Whether you're a parent, coach, or player, this episode is packed with essential insights and practical advice to navigate the evolving landscape of youth hockey.

🎧 Listen now to stay informed and ensure your young athlete is prepared for the upcoming seasons!

💬 Got questions? Share your thoughts with us at [email protected].

#USAHockey #YouthHockey #HockeySafety #OurKidsPlayHockey #HockeyParents #HockeyCoaches

Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!

Hockey IQ: Scanning the ice, recognizing pressure, anticipating what happens next, making the right decision faster. Research shows these perceptual and decision-making skills can actually be trained. With NHL Sense Arena, kids can get extra game-like reps at home, working on hockey IQ, reactions, real stick-handling for skaters, while goalies can train reads and tracking. Save $25 on an annual plan with code OKPH at http://hockey.sensearena.com/okph

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Spring is here! As the temperatures rise and the ice starts to melt, you might be wondering: Should I keep playing hockey in the spring, or is it okay to take a break?

In this episode, Lee MJ Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Sherry Hudspeth tackle one of the biggest questions young hockey players face: Do I need to play year-round to get better? Spoiler alert: You don’t.

✅ Why taking a break from hockey can actually make you a better player

✅ The benefits of playing other sports (or even picking up an instrument!)

✅ How to avoid the pressure of year-round hockey and focus on overall development

✅ Why your parents (and their wallets) need a break too!

Whether you’re lacing up for lacrosse, swinging a baseball bat, hitting the golf course, or just enjoying some downtime, remember—be an athlete, stay active, and most importantly, have fun.

🔗 Got questions about your spring hockey plans? Reach out to us! Click the link in the episode description or email [email protected].

#Hockey #SpringHockey #MultiSportAthletes #HockeyDevelopment #OurKidsPlayHockey

Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!

Hockey IQ: Scanning the ice, recognizing pressure, anticipating what happens next, making the right decision faster. Research shows these perceptual and decision-making skills can actually be trained. With NHL Sense Arena, kids can get extra game-like reps at home, working on hockey IQ, reactions, real stick-handling for skaters, while goalies can train reads and tracking. Save $25 on an annual plan with code OKPH at http://hockey.sensearena.com/okph

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🚨 Feeling the pressure before a big game? You’re not alone. But what if we told you that pressure is actually a privilege? In this episode, mental performance coach Vinny Malts—who works with NHL players and teams—joins us to break down how young athletes can turn stress into strength.

Together, we explore why pressure exists, where it comes from, and how you can take control of it instead of letting it control you. Coach Vinny shares a simple but powerful exercise to help players recognize their emotions, manage nerves, and perform at their best when it matters most.

🔹 Key Takeaways:

✔️ Why feeling pressure is a good thing—and how to embrace it

✔️ The “Angry Alex” exercise—an easy mental trick to manage emotions in the moment

✔️ How to recognize whether pressure comes from you or outside influences

✔️ The two voices in your head: the saboteur and the sage—and how to listen to the right one

✔️ Why learning to manage pressure now will help you on and off the ice

🏒 Whether it’s pre-game jitters, dealing with lineup decisions, or handling expectations, this episode is your mental reset before stepping on the ice.

🎧 Listen now, apply these tools, and take control of the pressure!

#TheRideToTheRink #MentalPerformance #HockeyMindset #PressureIsAPrivilege #YouthHockey

Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!

Hockey IQ: Scanning the ice, recognizing pressure, anticipating what happens next, making the right decision faster. Research shows these perceptual and decision-making skills can actually be trained. With NHL Sense Arena, kids can get extra game-like reps at home, working on hockey IQ, reactions, real stick-handling for skaters, while goalies can train reads and tracking. Save $25 on an annual plan with code OKPH at http://hockey.sensearena.com/okph

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In today’s episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, we dive into the critical role of mental performance in hockey with Coach Vinny Malts, a former pro player turned elite mental performance coach. Vinny has worked with athletes at every level, including as the first-ever mindset performance coach in the NHL, helping players strengthen their confidence, focus, and resilience.

Together, we explore why mental training is becoming as essential as physical training, how young players can develop their own mental game, and why youth hockey should not mirror the pro game. Vinny shares insights on how parents and coaches can cultivate confidence, reduce stress, and help young athletes find their unique path in the sport.

🔹 Key Takeaways:
✔️ Why mental performance training is now a priority for NHL teams
✔️ How overloading young players with information can hurt their development
✔️ The importance of social clarity and team communication in hockey
✔️ Why Mite AAA rankings may be doing more harm than good
✔️ How to encourage your child’s intrinsic motivation instead of forcing them to work harder

This episode is packed with actionable insights for parents, coaches, and players alike. If you’re serious about helping your child grow in hockey—and in life—this is a must-listen!

🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to share with your hockey community!

#OurKidsPlayHockey #MentalPerformance #HockeyMindset #YouthHockey #HockeyParents

Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!

Hockey IQ: Scanning the ice, recognizing pressure, anticipating what happens next, making the right decision faster. Research shows these perceptual and decision-making skills can actually be trained. With NHL Sense Arena, kids can get extra game-like reps at home, working on hockey IQ, reactions, real stick-handling for skaters, while goalies can train reads and tracking. Save $25 on an annual plan with code OKPH at http://hockey.sensearena.com/okph

Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!

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