Our Kids Play Hockey

In this special mailbag episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee and Mike dive into some powerful listener-submitted questions that hit at the heart of today's youth hockey experience—from the overwhelming costs of AAA, to what really matters when choosing a team, to how concussions can change the way young players approach the game.Whether you're a hockey parent struggling with financial decisions, a coach wondering how to build true team culture, or just trying to figure out how to support your child's passion for the game, this episode is packed with insight, honest advice, and real stories from decades in the rink.We also talk about:What to do when your child's motivation changesWhy there's no “one path” in hockey developmentThe real role of team building (spoiler: it's not just pizza parties)And why sometimes the best thing to do… is step back

On this episode of Ride to the Rink, we're joined by a true hockey visionary—Howard Dolgon, founder and longtime owner of the Syracuse Crunch, who turned a dream into a franchise and a franchise into a legacy.Howard reflects on his journey from a tough Brooklyn neighborhood to the New York State and Syracuse Hockey Halls of Fame—a path paved not by luck, but by passion, perseverance, and relentless belief. He opens up about the power of effort over excuses, the importance of chasing your potential, and why he's still dreaming big after 30+ years in the game.This is an episode for the kids with big dreams, the parents who believe in them, and the coaches who help them grow. If you've ever wondered how far love for the game can really take you—this ride is for you.

What does it take to build a hockey franchise from the ground up—and keep it thriving for 30+ years? In this inspiring episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, we're joined by Howard “Howie” Dolgon, the founder, owner, and president of the Syracuse Crunch, AHL affiliate of the Tampa Bay Lightning.From growing up on the streets of Brooklyn to hosting the first outdoor AHL game in history, Howie shares his incredible journey and the lessons he's learned about perseverance, community, and building something bigger than yourself. We cover:✅ How he brought pro hockey to Syracuse after four teams had failed✅ Why the Crunch became a model of success—and a family for so many players✅ What makes an impactful coach at every level of the game✅ The powerful community culture surrounding the Crunch—and how it all starts with giving back✅ Stories of NHL stars like Yanni Gourde and Jon Cooper that began in SyracuseWhether you're a parent, coach, or just love the game, this episode is a masterclass in turning passion into purpose. Don't miss this behind-the-scenes look at how one team—and one leader—can change an entire community.

Team USA gold medalist and NCAA champion Caroline Harvey joins us for a special Ride to the Rink episode—and she's talking directly to young players chasing big goals.Whether you dream of playing high school, college, or even Olympic hockey, this quick conversation is packed with the kind of advice that helps you take the next step in your game.

Fresh off a national championship with Wisconsin and a gold medal at the 2025 Women's World Championship, Caroline Harvey joins Lee, Sheri, and Mike for a powerful conversation about her rise through the hockey world—and what it really takes to make it.From playing boys' hockey in New Hampshire to becoming the best defenseman on the planet, Caroline (aka “KK”) shares the real behind-the-scenes work that led to her success. She opens up about what helped her stay driven, how to handle nerves before the biggest games of your life, and why the daily grind is the most important part of any athlete's journey.

We get asked for advice all the time… but what happens when that advice goes in one ear and out the other?In this episode, Lee and Mike dive into three common pieces of guidance that youth hockey parents frequently seek out—then completely disregard. From multi-sport overload, to the myth of showcases, to chasing teams hours away for more letters, we tackle the realities of what kids really need to develop and thrive in this sport.

In this week's episode of Our Kids Play Goalie, Lee Elias, Christy Casciano-Burns, and Mike Bonelli welcome a true icon in women's hockey—Sami Jo Small, three-time Olympian, two-time gold medalist, and a lifelong advocate for inclusion, purpose, and team unity.From being the only girl on the street in Winnipeg playing road hockey with her brother's friends, to starting in net for Team Canada, Sami's path wasn't just unconventional—it was groundbreaking.We explore:Her early days as “the girl goalie” and how inclusion, support, and street hockey shaped her identity.Why playing in boys' leagues taught her resilience—and what we can all learn from being “different” on the team.What her parents got right about letting her play—and how small decisions from adults can shape a child's future.Stanford, mechanical engineering, and club hockey on a men's team—how she kept joy in the game without the pressure of being seen.How she made Team Canada almost by accident, thanks to a chance meeting, a bold leap of faith, and one coach who believed in her.How it felt to be told she wouldn't start in the 2002 Olympic gold medal game—and how that moment shaped her understanding of roles, leadership, and humility.The myth of the “one goalie system” and how goalies can and should support each other.What it really means to be part of a championship team—and how we can teach this to our kids now, at every level of youth hockey.Why joy—not ambition—should drive a young athlete's development.Her daughter's decision to leave hockey and how Sami learned to support a completely different kind of journey.This episode is a masterclass in humility, perspective, and purpose. Whether you're raising a goalie, coaching one, or are one, Sami's story will change the way you see the game—and the people in it.

What's your role on the ice—and how can you lean into it, even if it's not the one you wanted? In this Ride to the Rink, NHL veteran and current youth coach Zac Rinaldo shares real-world advice for players navigating team dynamics, finding their identity, and expanding their skillset.From his own evolution through junior, pro, and now coaching, Zac breaks down how players can:

Getting cut from a team hurts—but it doesn't define your future. Olympic gold medalist and broadcaster Tessa Bonhomme joins The Ride to the Rink to deliver an inspiring message to every young player who didn't make the team this season.In just 10 minutes, Tessa shares:Why being cut can actually be a giftHow to turn disappointment into fuel for growthThe truth about building a winning team (hint: it's not all top scorers)Her personal “Google Maps” analogy for navigating your unique hockey pathA powerful mindset shift: “Face Everything And Rise”Whether you're on a new team or still searching for your next opportunity, this episode is a reminder that adversity is part of every great hockey story—including yours.

How do young players find their identity, toughness, and purpose—on and off the ice? This week on Our Kids Play Hockey, we're joined by former NHL forward and current junior hockey coach Zac Rinaldo, whose career was defined by grit, heart, and relentless work ethic.Zac shares his journey from leaving home at 14 to attend Notre Dame in Saskatchewan, to becoming a fan favorite in Philadelphia and playing 11 years in the NHL. Now coaching the Pelham Panthers, Zac is focused on developing the next generation of athletes—not just as hockey players, but as resilient, team-first individuals.In this episode, we cover:

The birds are chirping, the season's winding down—and that means it's the perfect time to start thinking about how to build a better hockey player this off-season.In this episode of Ride to the Rink, Lee and Mike dive into how players (and parents) can start planning a development calendar that fits real life and drives real growth. From simple 20-minute habits like daily push-ups or shooting pucks, to blocking out time in a shared Google Calendar, it's all about building consistency, not cramming in ice time.You'll also hear:     ✅ Why structured planning beats “winging it” every time     ✅ How daily effort—even 15 minutes—adds up in a big way     ✅ Tips for integrating hockey into your lifestyle without burning out     ✅ Why the off-ice work matters just as much (if not more) than spring tournamentsWhether your player wants to hit the next level or just stay sharp during the off-season, this short ride is packed with advice for setting goals, building habits, and staying balanced.

From the outdoor rinks of Sudbury to the heights of Olympic glory, Tessa Bonhomme has lived nearly every chapter of a hockey dream—and she's still writing new ones. In this powerful episode of Our Girls Play Hockey, Tessa joins Lee, Sherri, and Mike for a heartfelt, hilarious, and deeply insightful conversation about the journey from “just wanting to play” to becoming one of the most recognizable voices in hockey.Tessa opens up about:Her path from a neighborhood daycare game to captaining Team CanadaThe moment being cut sparked her fire to chase national team dreamsThe power of representation—and the female role model who changed everythingHer transition into broadcasting and how it mirrors life in a locker roomWhat today's youth coaches and parents can do to actually grow the women's gamePlus: stories of pranks, parents with guitars, being a “grocery stick,” and why just turning on the game might be the biggest step forward we can all take.This episode is a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and love for the game. Whether you're a parent, player, coach, or fan—don't miss it.Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!

This week on Our Kids Play Hockey, Christie takes over the host seat to ask the big question: what does it really take to be a great coach in youth hockey?With Mike and Lee in the hot seat, we dive deep into the reality of coaching—far beyond X's and O's. From balancing passion and pressure to dealing with criticism, managing parents, and constantly learning, they break down the challenges and rewards that come with the title of “Coach.”Whether you're thinking about coaching for the first time or have years behind the bench, this episode is full of candid stories, practical insights, and hard-earned wisdom about what makes a coach successful—not just in wins, but in shaping better athletes and people.In this episode, we cover:

“Why You Should Never Let Anyone Tell You ‘You Won't Make It'”On this ride, Lee, Christie, and Mike get real about one of the most common — and harmful — things kids in hockey (and beyond) hear: “You'll never make it.” Whether it's a coach, a parent, or even your own doubts, this episode is a rallying cry for young athletes to chase their dreams and embrace the journey — with eyes wide open and skates on the ice.We talk about why dreaming big matters, how to handle criticism, what it really takes to succeed, and why the path might change — and that's okay. This episode is all about believing in yourself, putting in the work, and owning your journey, no matter where it leads.Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!

Whether your kid is just starting out in youth hockey or already eyeing their college path, this episode is a must-listen. Lee, Christie, and Mike dive into the big questions every hockey parent faces—when should we start thinking about the future, how much should school and social life weigh in, and what really matters in the long run?From navigating early travel tournaments to the intense pressure of high school and junior hockey, the trio reflects on what they wish they knew when their kids were 8, 9, and 10 years old. They also unpack the rising expectations in the sport, the realities of burnout, and why supporting your child as a person—not just an athlete—is the key to lasting success.Oh, and yes—Christie even shares a legendary story of calling in “sick” to work for a tournament… and getting caught at Wayne Gretzky's restaurant.

As the hockey season wraps up, it's time to hit pause—and look back.In this episode of The Ride to the Rink, Lee MJ Elias and Mike Bonelli team up to help young players reflect on their season the right way. Whether you hoisted a championship trophy or just gave it your all every day, there are key lessons waiting to be uncovered—if you take the time to look.Lee and Mike break down a coach-approved reflection process, including:• ✅ How to assess your personal growth beyond stats•

How should coaches, parents, and players truly evaluate a hockey season—especially when it didn't end with a trophy? This week on Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee and Mike (with Christie on assignment) take a deep dive into what it really means to have a successful season—and it's not just about the scoreboard.From fostering a positive team culture to navigating tough losses, they share strategies for reflecting on the year with purpose. They also discuss the importance of development, goal-setting, communication, and knowing when it's time for a break from the rink.In this episode, we cover:

In this episode of The Ride to the Rink, we're joined by mental performance coach and former professional hockey player Danielle McDonough to help young athletes develop a winning mindset before they even step onto the ice.Feeling nervous about a big game? Stressed about a mistake from last time? Danielle shares simple but powerful tools—like breathing techniques, visualization, and superpower statements—to help you stay calm, confident, and focused. She explains how practicing mental skills is just like practicing stickhandling or skating—the more you do it, the better you'll be when it matters most!Plus, we tackle how to reset after a mistake, overcome peer pressure, and get back to having fun on the ice. This short but powerful episode is packed with real-life strategies that can help you in hockey, school, and beyond.So sit back, relax, and get ready to breathe in confidence and skate out stronger on your next Ride to the Rink!Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!

How do young athletes build confidence, resilience, and a strong mindset both on and off the ice? This week on Our Kids Play Hockey, we welcome Danielle McDonough, former professional hockey player, mindset coach, and author of The Empowered Athlete.Danielle shares her incredible journey from playing boys' hockey in Southern California to earning a full scholarship at Providence College, playing professionally in the NWHL and Switzerland, and ultimately transitioning into mental performance coaching. She discusses the mental challenges young athletes face, including anxiety, pressure, and self-doubt, and provides actionable strategies to help players, parents, and coaches develop mental toughness and confidence.In this episode, we cover:

On this episode of The Ride to the Rink, we're joined by Jon Nelson, a hockey coach and mental health advocate, to talk about the highs and lows of a hockey season and what to do when you're feeling down.

In this powerful episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, we sit down with Jon Nelson, a hockey coach, father, and mental health advocate, to discuss his incredible journey through hockey, mental health challenges, and the groundbreaking treatment that changed his life.Jon shares his deeply personal battle with depression, the life-saving deep brain stimulation procedure he underwent, and how hockey helped him persevere through it all. He also discusses his advocacy work through Pulverize the Stigma, a movement dedicated to breaking down barriers around mental health conversations.This episode is a must-listen for parents, coaches, and players looking to create a supportive, empathetic environment in youth hockey. We explore:

Are you fueling your game with the right habits? 

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.

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 differencePlus, 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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Calling all young hockey players and future broadcasters! In this episode of The Ride to the Rink, broadcaster Jamie Hersch joins Lee Elias to share how kids can turn their love for sports into an exciting career in broadcasting.

In this episode of Our Girls Play Hockey, we welcome Jamie Hersch, a trailblazing broadcaster and studio host for the NHL Network, MLB Network, PWHL, Minnesota Wild, and Vegas Golden Knights. From growing up as a passionate sports fan in Minnesota to becoming a respected voice in hockey broadcasting, Jamie shares her inspiring journey, the challenges she's faced, and the evolving role of women in sports media.

What makes a hockey parent truly legendary?

In this episode of The Ride to the Rink, Lee and Mike discuss the often-overlooked power of positive body language in hockey. While much attention is given to avoiding negative habits like sulking or smashing sticks, this episode flips the script to explore how positivity can elevate not just individual performance but the entire team.From encouraging teammates after mistakes to staying engaged between periods, Lee and Mike share actionable tips and stories about how players can use their body language to stand out on the ice, in the locker room, and even with referees. Whether you're a skater, goalie, or coach, this episode will leave you inspired to embrace the energy you bring to the game.--Key Takeaways:1.Positive Body Language Is Contagious: A simple pat on a teammate's back or encouraging words can change the energy of the entire bench.2.Engagement Matters: Coaches and recruiters notice players who stay focused and listen during team discussions, especially between periods.3.Fake It Till You Make It: Even pretending to smile or show confidence can improve your mood and performance.4.Referees Are People Too: Small gestures like handing a puck to the ref show respect and can positively influence how they perceive you.5.Coaches Look for Leaders: Players who display confidence and readiness through body language often earn critical opportunities in big moments.--Practical Tips for Players and Coaches:•Players: Maintain eye contact with coaches, stay involved on the bench, and use encouraging gestures to lift your teammates.•Goalies: Avoid visibly showing frustration after goals. Instead, refocus quickly and motivate your team.•Coaches: Reward and call attention to players who exhibit positive body language to set the standard for the team.--#PositiveBodyLanguage #RideToTheRink #HockeyLeadership #TeamworkClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Looking for the best gift to give your team at the end of this season? Hockey Wraparound is offering a really great Team Deal that includes 12 Wraparound (10 Hockey Wraparounds + 2 Goalie Wraparounds) plus 12 MYBALLs for just $199!Order now at HockeyWraparound.com!Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Hockey is more than just a game—it's a team, a family, and a place where players support one another both on and off the ice. In this episode of The Ride to the Rink, we welcome world-class hockey player and mental health advocate Kendra Fisher to talk about an important part of the game that doesn't always get enough attention—the mental side.Kendra shares her own journey with mental health, offering powerful advice for young players who may be struggling. From learning how to ask for help to being a great teammate for those who need support, she breaks down what it means to create a culture of trust, connection, and understanding in hockey.

In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee and Mike shine a spotlight on one of hockey's most vital yet underappreciated positions: the defenseman. They break down why strong defensive play is the key to offensive success and overall team stability. From understanding the “house” to the importance of skating, positioning, and transitions, this episode dives deep into the mindset and skills that make great defensemen so valuable.Whether you're a coach, player, or hockey parent, this episode will change how you view defensive hockey and give you practical tips for developing this essential role. It's time to give defensemen the appreciation they deserve.--Key Takeaways:1.Defense Creates Offense: Strong defensive positioning and smart play drive successful offensive transitions.2.The House Matters: The area in front of the net, known as “the house,” is where most goals are scored. Great defense keeps opponents out of this zone.3.Positionless Hockey Starts With Understanding Roles: Players who know every position's responsibilities are more valuable to their teams.4.Patience Is a Virtue: Great defensemen dictate play by slowing it down when necessary and guiding opponents into low-percentage areas.5.Stats Beyond Points: Celebrate and track defensive contributions like takeaways, blocked shots, and breakout passes—they're critical for success.--Practical Tips for Parents, Coaches, and Players:•Parents: Encourage your young players to try all positions, including defense, to understand the game fully. Celebrate non-scoring stats like takeaways and blocked shots.•Coaches: Emphasize skating, positioning, and decision-making in practices to develop smarter, more reliable defensemen.•Players: Embrace roles and responsibilities on both sides of the ice, knowing that defensive skills make you more desirable to coaches.-- #OurKidsPlayHockey #HockeyDefense #Teamwork #HockeyLifeClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Looking for the best gift to give your team at the end of this season? Hockey Wraparound is offering a really great Team Deal that includes 12 Wraparound (10 Hockey Wraparounds + 2 Goalie Wraparounds) plus 12 MYBALLs for just $199!Order now at HockeyWraparound.com!Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

What does it take to become a great hockey player—and a great teammate? In this episode of The Ride to the Rink episode, Lee Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli are joined by Matt Dumouchelle, author of the Hockey Factories series. Matt has traveled the world studying elite hockey programs, and he shares invaluable lessons for youth players about the importance of having fun, being a good teammate, and embracing the journey of the game.From celebrating the little moments on the ice to the lasting impact of team pride, Matt offers advice for players on focusing less on pressure and more on gratitude and enjoyment. Parents and young skaters alike will gain insights into how the best programs cultivate passion and community—and how individual players can build on those lessons at any level.Plus, hear why a good attitude and team-first mentality often outweigh raw talent when coaches make their decisions, and learn how finding joy in hockey today will create lasting memories tomorrow.

In this episode of Our Girls Play Hockey, goaltender-turned-advocate Kendra Fisher shares her journey from making Team Canada to battling severe anxiety and panic disorder. She reveals how hockey became both her escape and her lifeline, leading her to champion mental fitness in sports.Hockey players are told to be tough, but what happens when the battle is internal? Kendra discusses the pressures of elite competition, the impact of social media on young athletes, and the critical role of parents, coaches, and teammates in fostering mental well-being.Whether you're a player struggling with pressure, a parent supporting your child, or a coach looking to build a healthier team culture, this episode delivers must-hear insights.--Key Takeaways:

In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee, Christie, and Mike sit down with Matt Dumouchelle, the creator of the Hockey Factories series and podcast via The Coaches Site. Matt's in-depth exploration into elite hockey development programs worldwide has uncovered the secret ingredients behind their success—not just in creating great players, but in cultivating outstanding people.Matt shares insights from his research, including the importance of community among coaches, redefining success in youth hockey, and how the world's top hockey programs prioritize development over immediate results. Whether you're a parent, coach, or hockey enthusiast, this episode is packed with actionable advice and thought-provoking perspectives.--Key Takeaways:1. Coaching Community: Top programs succeed through constant coach collaboration across age groups.2. Redefining Success: Success is more than wins—it's about character, skills, and a love for hockey.3. Culture Matters: Programs like Frolunda focus on pride and long-term development over short-term results.4. Patience Wins: Gradual, long-term growth is more effective than instant success.5. Free Improvements: Positive culture and coach collaboration are impactful and cost nothing.--Practical Tips for Coaches and Organizations:• Build Coaching Unity: Regular meetings ensure aligned goals and best practices.• Broaden Winning: Measure success through growth, engagement, and teamwork.• Highlight Off-Ice Success: Celebrate players' academic and personal achievements.• Promote Position Versatility: Let kids try multiple roles for well-rounded development.• Supportive Parents: Guide parents to prioritize long-term growth over immediate results.--#HockeyDevelopment #OurKidsPlayHockey #HockeyFactories #YouthHockeyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Looking to get your coach a great gift this season?Lee has recently re-released his team building philosophy - How to Win: A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Championship Culture for Your Team! This new edition expands on Lee's acclaimed 2017 release with fresh insights, updated strategies, and practical tools. Grab a copy now on Amazon - https://a.co/d/9tDlwnCHave A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

Are you ready to unlock the secrets of hockey greatness?

In this episode of The Ride to the Rink, three-time Olympic gold medalist Cherie Piper shares wisdom for young hockey players chasing their dreams. Whether your goal is to play in the PWHL, make it to the NHL, or pursue excellence in any area of life, Cherie offers invaluable advice about:•Dreaming Big: Why having bold aspirations drives purpose and energy.•The Many Paths to Success: How hockey opens doors beyond playing, from coaching to officiating and beyond.•The Work Behind the Dream: Why commitment, effort, and smart choices matter more than just wishing for success.•Making Choices, Not Sacrifices: How pursuing your dream is about prioritizing what truly matters.Cherie's candid insights remind us that while dreams are never guaranteed, the pursuit itself is incredibly rewarding. Tune in for actionable advice and encouragement, whether you're on the way to the rink or tackling challenges in life.Key Quote:“Dream big, act on it, and make the right choices—because every step gets you closer to what you're striving for.”

What does it take to coach the greatest hockey players of all time?In this unforgettable episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, the legendary Coach Mike Keenan joins Lee, Christie, and Mike to share wisdom from a career that spans decades, continents, and championships. From his Stanley Cup victory to managing icons like Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, and Mario Lemieux, Coach Keenan dives deep into the art and science of coaching, team culture, and the importance of developing young players with care and purpose.

In this week's episode of Ride to the Rink, Lee and Mike dive into a crucial lesson for young players: how to keep your emotions in check and stay present, no matter what happens on the ice. Using relatable examples and practical advice, they explore how a few seconds of frustration—or celebration—can derail your performance if you let it. Learn why “being a goldfish” and practicing emotional awareness are key skills for hockey players and athletes alike. Whether you're scoring big or bouncing back from a mistake, this episode will teach you how to stay focused, control your mindset, and keep improving every shift.Tune in to hear why we believe in you—and why you should too!--Key Takeaways:1.The “12-Second Rule”: Don't let a few seconds of frustration or excitement dictate your entire game.2.Be a Goldfish: Let go of mistakes and move on quickly—just like the best players and goalies do.3.Balance Good and Bad Moments: Celebrate or process emotions briefly, then refocus on the game.4.Practice Emotional Awareness: This teachable skill can be honed both on and off the ice.5.Staying Present: Whether it's during a game, at school, or with family, the key to improvement lies in emotional awareness and mindfulness.--Practical Tips for Players:•After a mistake or success, take 15-30 seconds to acknowledge it, feel your emotions, and let it go.•Review game film with a focus on learning, not reliving mistakes or getting stuck on highlights.•Practice emotional control in everyday life to build resilience on the ice--#HockeyMindset #RideToTheRink #OurKidsPlayHockeyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Looking to get your coach a great gift this season?Lee has recently re-released his team building philosophy - How to Win: A Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Championship Culture for Your Team! This new edition expands on Lee's acclaimed 2017 release with fresh insights, updated strategies, and practical tools. Grab a copy now on Amazon - https://a.co/d/9tDlwnCHave A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube

In this episode of Our Girls Play Hockey, we're joined by none other than Cherie Piper—a three-time Olympic gold medalist and the Senior Manager of Scouting and Player Development for Hockey Canada. Fresh off another gold medal win at the U18 Women's World Championship, Cherie shares her journey to becoming one of hockey's most accomplished athletes.Together with hosts Lee MJ Elias, Sheri Hudspeth, and Mike Bonelli, Cherie dives deep into what it takes to succeed in high-performance hockey, both on and off the ice. Highlights include:•The Pathway to Playing for Team Canada: Cherie breaks down how young players can get noticed, starting with provincial programs and the importance of staying consistent.•The Role of Parents and Coaches: Insightful advice on fostering a supportive, high-performance mindset from a young age.•Hockey IQ and Leadership: Why being skilled isn't enough—Cherie shares what separates great players from good ones, including hockey sense, work ethic, and positive body language.•Behind the Scenes at U18 Worlds: Cherie gives an inside look at the challenges and triumphs of coaching at the international level and preparing athletes for the pressures of competition.•Her Love for the Game: Cherie reflects on her career, the mentors who shaped her, and her passion for helping the next generation of players thrive.Cherie also discusses why “pressure is a privilege” and how her team helps athletes navigate social media, mental performance, and the emotional rollercoaster of competitive hockey. This episode is packed with actionable insights for players, parents, and coaches alike.--

In this thought-provoking episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, hosts Lee Elias and Christie Casciano Burns dive into the controversial world of youth hockey rankings with special guests Ken Ruoff and Jean Linscott, authors of What Is the Goal? The Truth About the Youth Sports Industry. Together, they tackle the tough questions surrounding the impact of rankings, the emphasis on winning over development, and the broader effects of the “youth sports industry” on families and players.

How do you bounce back from massive adversity in your life? On today's episode of Ride to the Rink, NHL veteran Chris Therien joins Lee, Christie, and Mike to inspire young players with wisdom drawn from his 12-year professional career. As kids and families head to the rink, Chris shares advice on the importance of having fun, competing with effort, and being a great teammate.