USA Hockey: Next Generation

In this episode of the USA Hockey Next Generation Podcast, Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry host the official 2026 Chipotle USA Hockey Girls National Championship Selection Show. Joined by USA Hockey’s Kristen Saegert, the group reveals the teams competing across Tier I and Tier II divisions at the 14U, 16U, and 19U levels.

The show breaks down key matchups, highlights emerging programs from across the country, and discusses the continued growth of girls hockey in both traditional and developing markets. Coaches from Shattuck-St. Mary’s, BK Selects, Cleveland Lady Barons, Steel City Selects, and Utah Lady Grizzlies join the program to discuss their teams and preparation for the national stage.

From powerhouse programs to first-time qualifiers, the episode captures the excitement surrounding the road to a national championship and the expanding opportunities for girls hockey across the United States. 

Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] Opening introduction and welcome to the 2026 Chipotle Girls National Championship Selection Show.

[00:00:25] Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry introduce the show and welcome USA Hockey’s Kristen Saegert.

[00:01:05] Tier I 14U bracket is revealed across the USA, Olympic, NHL, and Liberty pools.

[00:02:16] Discussion of top teams to watch in the 14U division and expectations for the tournament.

[00:03:38] Conversation about the continued growth of girls hockey, highlighted by programs like the Carolina Hurricanes.

[00:03:58] Tier I 16U bracket announcement begins.

[00:04:42] Interview with Shattuck-St. Mary’s coach Ellie Williams-Doherty on preparing for nationals.

[00:08:14] Remaining 16U NHL and Liberty pool matchups are revealed.

[00:09:06] Discussion about Olympic momentum and the continued growth of girls hockey nationwide.

[00:09:51] Minnesota’s split-season development model is explained.

[00:10:37] Tier I 19U bracket announcement.

[00:11:54] Interview with BK Selects coach Cari Coen about her team’s preparation for nationals.

[00:14:39] Conversation about the impact of the PWHL and increased visibility for women’s hockey.

[00:17:04] Recap of the Tier I girls selections.

[00:17:18] Sponsor message.

[00:17:33] Tier II tournament coverage begins with the 14U 2A bracket reveal.

[00:19:30] Discussion about how teams prepare during the gap between qualification and the national tournament.

[00:21:46] Tier II 14U 1A bracket reveal.

[00:23:22] Interview with Cleveland Lady Barons coach Mindy French.

[00:27:49] Tier II 16U 2A bracket reveal.

[00:28:38] Interview with Steel City Selects coach Jim Black.

[00:33:21] Discussion about the competitiveness and depth of Massachusetts tier-two programs.

[00:35:05] Tier II 16U 1A bracket reveal.

[00:35:35] Interview with Utah Lady Grizzlies coach Rob Johnson.

[00:39:46] Discussion about the growth of girls hockey in Utah and other emerging markets.

[00:42:07] Tier II 19U 2A bracket announcement.

[00:44:01] Conversation about hockey development in Alaska and the challenges faced by remote programs.

[00:45:44] Tier II 19U 1A final bracket reveal.

[00:48:06] Discussion about the narrowing competitive gap across girls hockey programs nationwide.

[00:50:50] Explanation of the USA Hockey at-large selection process.

[00:54:14] Closing remarks and congratulations to all teams qualifying for nationals.

Links:

USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠ 

Pat Kelleher - https://www.usahockey.com/patkelleher

Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠ 

Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠ 

In this episode of the USA Hockey Next Generation Podcast, Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry sit down with Pat Kelleher, Executive Director of USA Hockey. Pat reflects on the organization’s recent international success, including Team USA’s Olympic achievements, and explains the collaboration and preparation that goes into building championship programs. The conversation also examines the continued growth of hockey across the United States, the importance of development pathways for young players, and how initiatives like Learn to Play and Try Hockey for Free help expand access to the game. Pat shares his perspective on maintaining momentum at both the grassroots and international levels while ensuring the sport continues to grow for the next generation of players. 

Key Points From This Episode: 

[00:00:00] Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry open the episode and discuss recent coaching experiences and youth hockey moments. 

[00:02:55] Introduction of guest Pat Kelleher, Executive Director of USA Hockey. 

[00:04:51] Pat Kelleher joins the show and reflects on recent success for USA Hockey on the international stage. 

[00:05:31] Discussion about the preparation, collaboration, and culture required to achieve Olympic success. 

[00:08:11] Growth of the game in the United States and how stronger development pathways have increased competition for national team spots. 

[00:10:26] The role of USA Hockey’s programs in developing elite athletes and strengthening the talent pool. 

[00:13:12] Insights into the work happening behind the scenes to support Team USA’s international performance. 

[00:15:59] How USA Hockey supports adaptive and sled hockey programs and the commitment of those athletes. 

[00:18:33] The dedication and culture within Team USA programs that contribute to continued international success. 

[00:22:42] Efforts to grow participation in hockey across the country and expand opportunities for young players. 

[00:25:37] Discussion about USA Hockey’s grassroots initiatives and the infrastructure supporting youth development. 

[00:28:44] Addressing barriers to entry and making the sport more accessible through programs like Learn to Play and Try Hockey for Free. 

[00:31:20] The importance of creating welcoming environments so young players fall in love with the game early. 

[00:34:25] Long-term strategy for sustaining success at both the grassroots and international levels. 

[00:36:12] Building momentum after major international wins and continuing to develop future Team USA talent. 

[00:42:26] Rapid-fire questions and reflections on leadership, teamwork, and the future of the sport. 

[00:44:20] Closing thoughts from Pat Kelleher and appreciation for the people who contribute to the growth of hockey in the United States. 

Links: 

USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠  

Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠  

Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠  

In this episode of the USA Hockey Next Gen Podcast, Lindsey Fry and Drew Shore sit down with four-time Olympian and 1998 gold medalist Angela Ruggiero. Angela reflects on her Olympic experiences, the evolution of Team USA’s mindset against Canada, and the growth of women’s hockey from 5,000 players in 1990 to nearly 100,000 today. She also shares insights on leadership, retirement transition, entrepreneurship, and founding Sports Innovation Lab. From the Olympic Village to the boardroom, Angela discusses how today’s players benefit from stronger infrastructure, pro opportunities, and investment in women’s sports.

Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] Introduction to the USA Hockey Next Gen Podcast and episode setup.

[00:01:10] Team USA women’s strong Olympic start and discussion of Olympic performance pressure.

[00:03:06] Angela Ruggiero on broadcasting the Olympics and what a 5–0 win over Canada means.

[00:04:32] Olympic Village vs. hotel debate and the value of embracing the full Olympic experience.

[00:07:50] Angela’s first Olympic experience at 18 and joining the national team at 15.

[00:11:27] Lessons from Olympic gold and silver medals, including not taking success for granted.

[00:13:27] Mindset shift within Team USA from underdog to believing they could beat Canada consistently.

[00:15:00] Growth of women’s hockey participation and the impact of NCAA development.

[00:19:20] Evolution of professional opportunities for women and how pro leagues extend careers.

[00:22:17] Advice for athletes transitioning out of sport and applying athletic intangibles to business.

[00:27:38] Founding Sports Innovation Lab and bringing data-driven decision-making to sports business.

[00:33:16] Investment growth in women’s sports and why leagues like the WNBA are surging.

[00:40:47] Shift in how women’s sports are marketed—from role model narratives to elite competition.

[00:43:22] Coaching youth hockey: prioritizing effort, fun, and team culture at ages 9–10.

[00:48:13] Leadership advice: be authentic and lead with empathy and awareness.

[00:50:15] Lindsey reflects on Angela’s impact on the game and the future of the next generation.

Links:

USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠ 

Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠ 

Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠ 

In this episode of the USA Hockey Next Gen Podcast, hosts Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry sit down with NHL veteran and Team USA centerman Vincent Trocheck as he prepares to head to Milan for the Olympic Games. Trocheck reflects on the return of NHL players to the Olympics, the intensity of best-on-best international competition, and the lessons learned from the Four Nations tournament. He shares his youth hockey journey from Pittsburgh to Detroit, discusses player development pathways, and explains the importance of versatility, hockey IQ, and embracing different roles. The conversation also examines leadership dynamics on national teams, preparing for elite international play on a tight timeline, and advice for young players aspiring to reach the highest levels of the game.

Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] Introduction to the USA Hockey Next Gen Podcast and episode overview.

[00:00:51] Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry introduce Vincent Trocheck and discuss the excitement around NHL players returning to the Olympics.

[00:01:38] Trocheck explains why best-on-best international hockey raises pressure and intensity.

[00:02:50] Growth of USA Hockey and increased depth leading to tougher Olympic roster decisions.

[00:05:49] Trocheck outlines his youth hockey path from Pittsburgh to Detroit and into junior hockey.

[00:07:00] Perspective on development pathways and why strong players can be noticed from anywhere.

[00:07:52] Trocheck shares thoughts on the NHL schedule challenges during an Olympic year.

[00:08:25] Preparing for a defined role on an Olympic roster and the value of versatility.

[00:09:52] Comparing the speed and intensity of the Four Nations tournament to NHL playoff hockey.

[00:10:46] Player mindset and league-wide excitement about returning to Olympic competition.

[00:12:27] Advice for young players facing elite opponents: focus on systems, positioning, and role clarity.

[00:13:14] Leadership dynamics on national teams where many players are leaders on their NHL clubs.

[00:14:51] Balancing intensity and keeping things light in high-pressure tournaments.

[00:15:54] How Team USA prepares quickly with limited practice time before major tournaments.

[00:17:57] What wearing the Team USA jersey means and the significance of finally reaching the Olympics.

[00:21:23] Trocheck’s advice to young players: develop hockey IQ and long-term growth over early results.

[00:24:09] Post-interview reflections on versatility, adaptability, and embracing different roles.

[00:26:10] Discussion on the importance of playing multiple positions and roles from a young age.

[00:28:49] Closing thoughts on Olympic excitement and the value of watching elite international hockey.

Links:

USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠ 

Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠ 

Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠ 

In this episode of the USA Hockey Next Gen Podcast, Lyndsey Fry and Drew Shore sit down with Kendall Coyne Schofield as she prepares for her fourth Olympic Games. Kendall reflects on her development path with the Chicago Mission, her collegiate experience at Northeastern, and how speed became a defining part of her game. She shares advice for young players, emphasizing fearlessness, skill development, and enjoying the daily process. Kendall also discusses leadership evolution within Team USA, embracing roles in short international tournaments, and the importance of recovery later in her career. The conversation addresses her experience as a new mother, her role in the growth of the PWHL, and her goal of continuing to create opportunities for the next generation of girls in hockey. 

Key Points From This Episode: 

[00:00:00] Lyndsey Fry discusses coaching mindset, development, and avoiding burnout late in the season. 

[00:01:37] Drew Shore introduces Kendall Coyne Schofield and her longevity heading into a fourth Olympics. 

[00:07:51] Kendall reflects on her development with the Chicago Mission and the importance of strong coaching and competition. 

[00:09:07] Advice for young players on improving speed through edge work and pushing comfort zones. 

[00:10:29] Kendall explains why education played a major role in choosing Northeastern University. 

[00:11:45] Motivation behind writing her book As Fast As Her and closing gaps in representation. 

[00:13:30] How becoming a parent reshaped Kendall’s perspective on hockey and life. 

[00:17:28] Evolution of leadership through learning from past Team USA leaders. 

[00:19:03] Embracing roles in short international tournaments as a key to team success. 

[00:21:18] Excitement about Olympic Village camaraderie and watching other sports. 

[00:23:43] Focusing on internal standards and style of play as Team USA’s biggest Olympic challenge. 

[00:24:52] Importance of recovery and body care later in a long career. 

[00:27:15] Kendall discusses PWHL playoff success and the value of strong goaltending depth. 

[00:28:56] Impact of the upcoming PWHL draft class and future growth of the league. 

[00:29:55] Vision for continued evolution of women’s professional hockey. 

[00:32:56] Kendall’s focus on living in the present and giving back to the game. 

[00:35:12] Advice to young girls: prioritize fun, growth, and surrounding yourself with the right people. 

[00:39:20] Coaching lessons centered on caring about players as people first. 

[00:47:05] Lyndsey Fry reflects on Kendall’s leadership growth and long-term advocacy for women’s hockey. 

Links: 

USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠  

Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠  

Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠  

Kendall Coyne - https://www.instagram.com/kendallcoyne26/?hl=en 

In this episode of the USA Hockey Next Gen Podcast, hosts Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry sit down with Drew Garza, founder of the Dented Puck Foundation and USA Hockey’s Blind Hockey representative. Drew shares his personal journey from lifelong hockey player to losing his vision, and ultimately rediscovering the game through blind hockey. The conversation examines how blind hockey works, from equipment adaptations and rules to communication and teamwork on the ice. Drew also discusses the mission of the Dented Puck Foundation, the impact the sport has on players and families, and his role in growing blind hockey across the United States. Together, they address accessibility, community, and what the next generation of blind hockey players can expect as the sport continues to expand.Key Points From This Episode:[00:00:00] Introduction to the episode’s focus on blind hockey, accessibility, and inclusion[00:03:56] Drew Garza reflects on recent blind hockey tournaments and community growth[00:04:22] Garza shares his personal journey into hockey and losing his vision[00:07:38] Origins and mission of the Dented Puck Foundation[00:10:26] Explanation of blind hockey classifications, rules, and on-ice adaptations[00:13:43] How the blind puck differs from a standard hockey puck[00:15:32] Discussion of player skill, talent, and spatial awareness in blind hockey[00:18:18] Communication, safety, and physical contact in blind hockey[00:19:57] Challenges and requirements for blind hockey to reach the Paralympics[00:22:18] Impact of blind hockey on players’ lives and family dynamics[00:24:13] USA Hockey’s efforts and plans to grow blind hockey nationwide[00:27:17] Advice for the next generation of blind hockey players[00:28:26] Rapid-fire questions and favorite memories from blind hockey[00:30:36] Where to learn more about the Dented Puck Foundation and blind hockeyLinks:USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠ Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠ Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/

In this episode of the USA Hockey Next Gen podcast, hosts Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry sit down with three-time Paralympic gold medalist Declan Farmer to explore his path from discovering sled hockey in Tampa to becoming one of the sport’s most accomplished athletes. Declan shares how early exposure to adaptive hockey, steady development, and a growing training community shaped his career. The conversation examines the evolution of sled hockey, the expansion of grassroots programs, the rise in skill standards, and the importance of veteran leadership. Declan also reflects on memorable international moments, upcoming Paralympic goals, and the impact of USA Hockey’s support in moving the sport forward. 

Key Points From This Episode: 

[00:00:00] Introduction to the USA Hockey Next Gen podcast. 

[00:00:25] Drew and Lyndsey open the episode and catch up. 

[00:01:38] Introducing guest Declan Farmer and his longstanding connection with Lyndsey. 

[00:03:39] Declan joins and shares how he discovered sled hockey in Tampa. 

[00:05:13] Early development and the moment he began taking training seriously. 

[00:07:40] Declan discusses memorable Team USA moments, including dramatic Paralympic wins. 

[00:10:21] Thoughts on the Milan Paralympic ice situation. 

[00:11:01] Biggest challenges faced during his career and managing full-time training demands. 

[00:14:18] How sled hockey has evolved and how the skill level has risen. 

[00:16:38] Lyndsey reflects on trying sled hockey and asks about advice for newcomers. 

[00:17:43] Declan’s guidance for athletes finding sled hockey later in life. 

[00:18:56] How USA Hockey’s leadership and long-term planning have helped grow the sport. 

[00:21:04] Recognizing athletes’ contributions to USA Hockey’s broader mission. 

[00:22:26] ESPYs experience and memories from the event. 

[00:23:28] What Declan hopes to feel when he looks back on his career. 

[00:25:39] What it means to leave the sport in a better place for future athletes. 

[00:26:21] Lyndsey’s first memory meeting the sled team. 

[00:27:58] Closing reflections and appreciation for Declan’s impact. 

[00:28:42] Emerging young players to watch. 

[00:29:35] Kids Corner: How long Declan has played sled hockey. 

[00:30:08] Kids Corner: Favorite pregame meal. 

[00:30:43] Kids Corner: What winning his first gold medal felt like. 

[00:32:00] Drew and Lyndsey wrap up the episode and look ahead to Milan. 

Links: 

PWHL: https://www.thepwhl.com/en/ 

USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠  

Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠  

Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠  

In this episode of the USA Hockey Next Generation Podcast, hosts Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry are joined by John Vanbiesbrouck, Assistant Executive Director of USA Hockey and General Manager of the U.S. World Junior Team. The conversation centers on the upcoming World Junior Championship, USA Hockey’s recent international success, and what has driven sustained growth across the development pipeline. John shares insight into roster construction, leadership, goaltending evaluation, and the importance of skating, competition, and consistency at the elite level. He also reflects on his NHL career, his transition into leadership with USA Hockey, and why giving back to the game remains central to his work today.

Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] Introduction to the USA Hockey Next Generation Podcast and its focus on the future of the game

[00:00:44] Drew discusses the Colorado Extreme alumni event and growing access to hockey

[00:02:00] Lindsey introduces John Vanbiesbrouck and previews the World Junior Championship

[00:04:05] John shares updates on World Junior preparations and training camp in Duluth

[00:04:28] Factors behind Team USA’s recent success and depth at the U20 level

[00:05:57] Emphasis on fun, skill development, and creativity in USA Hockey’s growth model

[00:08:21] Expansion into non-traditional markets and the impact of the ADM

[00:10:43] Role of college hockey, junior leagues, and development pathways

[00:14:24] Evaluating goaltenders and the importance of consistency

[00:16:30] Identifying under-the-radar players and leadership qualities

[00:18:50] Reflections on Vanbiesbrouck’s NHL career and lessons from longevity

[00:22:42] Playing behind elite defensemen and learning from championship teams

[00:25:13] Key ingredients in building elite international teams

[00:32:43] Why Vanbiesbrouck chose to give back through USA Hockey

[00:34:49] Advice for young players aspiring to play at the World Junior level

[00:37:29] What sets coach David Carle apart as a leader

[00:39:14] Closing reflections on skating, pace, and the future of international hockey

Links:

USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠ 

Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠ 

Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠ 

In this episode of the USA Hockey Next Gen Podcast, hosts Lyndsey Fry and Drew Shore sit down with Tony Granato to examine a lifetime spent in the game. Tony reflects on how hockey shaped his family, his journey as a player, coach, and broadcaster, and what USA Hockey has meant throughout each stage of his career. The conversation explores Olympic roster decision-making, the value of adaptability and role acceptance, and why loving both the game and the work behind it matters at every level. Tony also shares powerful lessons for young players, parents, and coaches on development, versatility, and keeping passion at the center of the experience.

Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] Introduction to the USA Hockey Next Gen Podcast and episode focus

[00:00:25] Lyndsey Fry and Drew Shore introduce Tony Granato

[00:01:40] Tony Granato’s playing, coaching, and Olympic experience with USA Hockey

[00:03:07] Career highlights and transition from player to coach

[00:04:16] Tony reflects on how hockey shaped his family and lifelong connection to the game

[00:06:16] Inside the 2018 Olympic team selection process

[00:07:36] Balancing current performance versus overall body of work when building Olympic rosters

[00:09:58] Lessons from Olympic team building that apply to youth and player development

[00:11:33] Importance of coachability, details, and earning trust at every level

[00:13:43] Value of versatility and playing multiple roles to create more opportunities

[00:14:12] Dylan Larkin example and embracing role changes on elite teams

[00:16:58] Power play versatility and adapting skills to fit team needs

[00:19:30] Playing for the love of the game and reducing outcome-driven pressure

[00:20:58] Loving the grind and commitment required to reach elite levels

[00:22:50] Tony discusses his sister Cammi Granato and the early challenges of women’s hockey

[00:26:55] Comparing coaching at the college and professional levels

[00:30:36] Growth of USA Hockey and the impact of volunteers and development programs

[00:33:57] Transition to broadcasting and sharing the game from a new perspective

[00:38:18] Reflections on USA Hockey pride and representing the United States

[00:41:03] Episode wrap-up and preview of upcoming USA Hockey conversations

Links:

USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠ 

Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠ 

Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠ 

In this episode of USA Hockey’s Next Gen podcast, hosts Lyndsey Fry and Drew Shore sit down with Annie Camins, VP at the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL), to explore how the league went from concept to puck drop in just four months. Annie shares what it took to launch a professional league with high standards, including facilities, community engagement, and a historic CBA. The conversation highlights the PWHL’s rapid expansion, fan growth, and long-term vision—plus Annie’s own journey from being the only girl on her youth team to helping build a professional league for future generations. 

Key Points From This Episode: 

[00:00:00] Lyndsey Fry introduces the episode’s focus on women’s hockey and the PWHL 

[00:01:33] The growth of girls' hockey in the U.S. over the past few decades 

[00:03:28] Limited opportunities in the past for women to continue playing 

[00:05:00] Importance of the PWHL’s collective bargaining agreement (CBA) 

[00:06:22] Annie Camins joins the podcast 

[00:06:51] How the PWHL formed and launched in four months 

[00:09:03] Why the CBA was essential from day one 

[00:10:10] Challenges of launching the league in such a short timeline 

[00:13:20] Strategies for growing the league’s fan base and community engagement 

[00:17:59] Where the talent pipeline for the PWHL comes from 

[00:21:25] Annie’s vision for the next 5–10 years of the league 

[00:23:53] How the PWHL is supporting Olympians and preparing them without centralization 

[00:25:32] Annie’s favorite memory since the league’s inception 

[00:26:21] What team Annie would’ve played for 

[00:27:02] Can Minnesota win a third Walter Cup? 

[00:28:08] Behind-the-scenes moments from league travel and logistics 

[00:29:07] Annie’s background in hockey and path to her current role 

[00:31:09] Annie’s advice to young girls dreaming of the PWHL 

[00:32:14] Closing thoughts and the impact of visible role models 

[00:33:50] Hillary Knight inspires a young fan on Halloween 

[00:35:40] Preview of the next episode with Tony Granato 

Links: 

PWHL: https://www.thepwhl.com/en/ 

USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠  

Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠  

Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠