Ever wondered how a professional athlete navigates the shift from the ice to the sidelines of coaching? Jamie Phillips, a former AHL goalie and NHL draftee, joins us for an intimate chat about his transformation from a hopeful young goalie to an expert behind the cage.  From triumphs with the RBC Cup to the trials of professional play, Jamie's story is a testament to the resilience and fortitude needed at every level of hockey.

In our conversation, we skate past the surface of what it takes to have a successful junior hockey career, addressing the key components that go unnoticed but are vital for athlete development. Jamie opens up about the challenges he's faced and overcame, painting a vivid picture of the realities of a professional athlete's life - an intriguing mix of determination, adversity, and the inevitable need for self-awareness. His insights are a treasure trove for anyone involved in sports, be it a fan, player, or those in the management side of things.  Jamie's journey from skating on frozen ponds to shaping the minds of future hockey stars is nothing short of compelling, offering valuable lessons on seizing opportunities and betting on oneself. 

Wrapping up with discussions on the psychological nuances of the game, we go beyond just gameplay strategies to the importance of team camaraderie, bench behaviour, and the small, yet crucial, details that contribute to the success of a sports organization. 

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Have you ever wondered what it takes to navigate the rough waters of junior hockey, both as a player and as a coach? Kyle Evans, the astute former head coach of the Campbell River Storm, joins us to unravel the tapestry of his career transitioning from the ice to the bench. You'll get an unfiltered look at the realities of coaching up-and-coming athletes, the battle to keep local talent from the allure of academies, and the personal triumphs that mark a coach's career.

Our candid discussion with Kyle doesn't shy away from the tough topics. From his first year facing the BCHL's restructuring chaos to the controversy of tampering accusations, we cover the spectrum of challenges a junior hockey coach faces. Kyle's story is one of adaptability, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of fostering growth in young players—principles that underpin the spirit of hockey beyond the scoreboard. We also delve into the significance of organizational values, which, according to Kyle, are the real anchors of a team amidst the tides of league transitions.

As we lace up for the final segment, the conversation pivots to the gritty details of player motivation and development across different tiers of hockey. Austen and Carson provide insight into the unique NJHL player awards, the impact of excessive penalties on player safety, and the delicate balance coaches must strike when advocating for their team without incurring the wrath of officials. This episode is more than just a slap shot of knowledge—it's a hat trick of wisdom, experience, and a love for the game that will resonate with anyone who's stepped onto the ice or cheered from the stands. 

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Welcome to the rink of life choices and ice challenges, where the stakes are high and the rewards even higher. Join me, Austen Hoey, with co-host Carson Johnstone of Pursuit Hockey Development, as we lace up to guide you through the maze of selecting the right junior hockey program. Imagine standing at the crossroads of a promising hockey career; we're here to illuminate the path from tryouts to team dynamics, revealing how making self aware decisions and honesty, epitomize the grit and grind of making it in elite hockey.

Ever wondered about the undercurrents of youth hockey, where the glitz of "recruitment promises" meets the hard truth of financial and emotional investment? Our candid conversation pulls back the curtain on the reality of program selection, the red flags to watch for, and the absolute commitment needed to skate past the competition. We'll share stories from the rink that underscore the importance of due diligence and the resilience to thrive, even when the limelight isn't on you. Plus, discover how digital advances are reshaping the youth and junior hockey landscape, for better or for worse.

The episode isn't complete without a body-check into the controversial debate surrounding hockey's enforcers and fighters. From the NHL's nuanced dynamics to the fiery spirit of minor league hockey, we tackle the essence of these roles and their pivotal impact on a team's morale and fan engagement. Wrapping up, we address the pressing issues facing junior hockey leagues today – including playoff format changes and journalistic integrity – and how these affect everyone from players to fans. So, put on your game face and join us for an episode that's as enlightening as it is exhilarating, because knowing your true worth and playing the game right is what truly leads to victory, on and off the ice. 

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When the puck drops and dreams of hockey stardom start to fade, what becomes of the heart and hustle that once defined a player? Jon Stephenson, a former ice warrior turned bench maestro, joins us to share his transformative journey through the ranks of junior, college, and professional hockey. His narrative is a testament to the resilience required to pivot from player to coach, and the persistence needed to guide the next generation of talent. Jon's experiences illuminate the diverse array of pathways available to young players seeking to get to the next level—from navigating Canadian junior hockey leagues to seizing opportunities in the collegiate system, and teaching the game overseas.

Our conversation with Jon takes us around the globe and back, exploring not only the cultural nuances but also the organizational challenges that come with coaching in unfamiliar territories. Ever wonder what it's like to play professional hockey in countries where the sport is as foreign as the language? Or to coach in a place where the ice is as scarce as a snowflake in the Sahara? We share anecdotes from the field, where passion for the game fuels innovation and adaptation in the face of scarcity. Jon's candid recounting of his time coaching abroad paints a vivid picture of the sport's impact and the mutual growth for both mentor and protégé. 

As we lace up for the final period of this episode, the focus shifts to the intricate dance between sports advisors and the families they serve. How do parents wade through the sea of options to secure the best future for their budding stars? Austen and Carson discuss the critical decisions that shape a young athlete's destiny and the heavy responsibility that comes with those choices. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious newcomer to the thrills of hockey, join us for an episode that peels back the layers of the game, revealing the complex web of decisions, sacrifices, and serendipity that define the journey from the locker room to life beyond the rink.  

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Discover the secrets of prep hockey's impact on player development as Kevin Rawlick from Crystal Beach Academy joins us to illuminate the path from minor hockey to the big leagues. Hockey Ops Director and U18 Prep Program coach, Kevin reveals some differences between U18 AAA and prep hockey and the traits that have made his players have success. Tune in for an inside look at how character and coachability can make or break an athlete's career, and why nurturing the whole person is central to success in hockey.

Our candid conversation with Kevin Rawlick takes a deep dive into the evolution of coaching and player development. We explore how the culture of youth hockey has transitioned from a casual pastime to a highly competitive arena with aspirations of scholarships and professional careers. Kevin shares his insights on the mentorship role of coaches, emphasizing the lasting influence they have on young players' lives, shaping not only their athletic performance but also their personal growth and values.

Wrapping up this week's insightful discussion, we reflect on the integrity of junior hockey programs and the controversies that come with it. The unusual deployment of three goalies in one game is just the tip of the iceberg, as we explore financial dynamics and the need for honest feedback in a player's journey. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we'll delve into the selection of advisors and programs that prioritize true athletic and personal advancement. Don't miss this episode of Pursuit Hockey Discussion—where the real talk about hockey development takes center ice.

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Join Carson and Austen as they outline this new podcast, chat about the SIJHL, it's place in the CJHL, Junior NEWS with the BCHL & AJHL Merger/Defection, and the Soft White underbelly of hockey.   Enjoy

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