The Hockey Think Tank Podcast

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The Hockey Think Tank Podcast brings incredible stories, interviews, and great perspective from some of the top hockey minds in the game. Hosted by Topher Scott & Jeff LoVecchio, our podcast will educate and inspire all those that love the game! For all the players, coaches, and hockey parents out there...make this your Go-To show on your way to the rink!

thehockeythinktank


    • Nov 19, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 50m AVG DURATION
    • 866 EPISODES

    4.9 from 420 ratings Listeners of The Hockey Think Tank Podcast that love the show mention: youth hockey, coaches and parents, hockey world, something for everyone, players, coaching, son, levels, fix, forget, played, child, thanks guys, game, boys, great stuff, currently, kids, great information, grow.


    Ivy Insights

    The Hockey Think Tank Podcast is an incredible resource for hockey players, parents, and coaches at all levels of the game. The hosts, Topher and Jeff, bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to each episode, making it a must-listen for anyone involved in the sport.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is the variety of guests that are featured. From top players and coaches to experts in sports psychology and training, the interviews provide valuable insights into different aspects of the game. Whether it's learning about effective practice strategies or gaining advice on how to navigate challenges in hockey, there is something for everyone in each episode. The hosts also do a great job of engaging with their guests and asking thoughtful questions, creating an informative and entertaining listening experience.

    Another great aspect of this podcast is its focus on both on-ice and off-ice development. While there are plenty of discussions about skill development and training techniques, there are also episodes that dive into topics like leadership, mental toughness, and life lessons learned through hockey. This well-rounded approach makes the podcast not only informative but also relatable to listeners who may be facing similar challenges.

    As for any potential drawbacks of this podcast, one could argue that there could be more episodes specifically geared towards certain age groups or playing levels within youth hockey. While many topics discussed are applicable across all levels, it would be beneficial to have more targeted episodes for specific age groups or playing levels within youth hockey.

    In conclusion, The Hockey Think Tank Podcast is an invaluable resource for anyone involved in hockey. With its diverse range of guests and topics covering both on-ice skills and off-ice development, it offers something for everyone. The hosts' passion for the game shines through in each episode, making it an enjoyable listen that leaves listeners feeling inspired and motivated. Whether you're a player looking for tips to improve your game or a parent trying to navigate the world of youth hockey, this podcast is a must-listen.



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    Latest episodes from The Hockey Think Tank Podcast

    SHORT SHIFTS - WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A SMART HOCKEY PLAYER

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2025 11:14


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about what it means to be a smart hockey player. What do we see in players that have a high hockey IQ? TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Advice for Parent Coaches & How to Create a Challenging, but Fun Environment with Guest Jason Guerriero, USA Hockey Player Development Manager - EP 391

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2025 73:17


    This week Topher talks with Jason Guerriero, USA Hockey Player Development Manager. We brought Guerriero back on for round two to talk about creating a challenging environment that also facilitates a love for the game. In this episode we talk about: — Setting clear boundaries as a parent coach — How being challenged is what makes the game fun for kids — That failure is inevitable, but it's about how you get through it — How we're creating more stress than we need to for players AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! JOIN HTTU TODAY! HTT MERCH Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - SHOULD KIDS PAY THE PRICE FOR BAD PARENTS?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2025 15:04


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about a controversial topic in the hockey world: should kids/players have to pay the price for their bad parents? We posted on our socials an example of a Division One Head Coach not recruiting a player because his dad was yelling from the stands. This one got you guys fired up, so let's talk about it! TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    SHORT SHIFTS - CROSSOVERS

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2025 10:39


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about crossovers and the importance of them in the game. Vechs explains how to master this element of your skating, on and off the ice. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Building a Thriving Hockey Organization that Prioritizes Development with Guest Josh Levine, Fortis Academy Founder - EP 390

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 72:20


    This week Topher and Jeff talk with Josh Levine, founder of Fortis Academy in Minnesota. With over a decade of experience training and coaching athletes at all age levels, Levine helped revive a dormant community organization. We talk about building an organization that is efficient and prioritizes development over profits. In this episode we talk about: — How players inhibit themselves by not being good people off the ice — Utilizing volunteers to coach the age groups below them — Letting the kids swim at hockey tournaments — The effect of screens on depth perception and how kids play AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! JOIN HTTU TODAY! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - WHAT'S YOUR WHY?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2025 18:55


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph brings on Jon Francisco of 4Check Hockey to talk about finding our why - why do we play the game, why do we put our kids in youth hockey, etc. It's a simple, but great question to help keep everything in perspective; so we encourage you to reflect on your why. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    SHORT SHIFTS - 2-3 POWER PLAY SET UP

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2025 11:34


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph brings on USA Hockey's Jason Guerriero to talk about the trending 2-3 power play set up. Also known as the spread or box-and-1, this power play system is becoming more and more popular at the highest levels. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    The Top Lessons We've Learned from the Hockey Think Tank: 7 Year Anniversary Show - EP 389

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2025 61:27


    This week Topher and Jeff celebrate the 7 year anniversary of the start of the Hockey Think Tank podcast. We have learned such invaluable lessons over the years from all of the guests we have had on, the organizations we've worked with, and all of our listeners that have reached out. Listen for each of our top 3 lessons of all time. In this episode we talk about: — How resiliency is everything — Surrounding yourself with good people — Finding a way to stay connected to the game throughout life — How this game is worth fighting for and we need to leave it better than we found it AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! JOIN HTTU TODAY! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - RINK RAT RENTALS?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2025 12:47


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph and Vechs bring on one of the founders of Rink Rat Rentals, Kevin McLaughlin, to discuss making hockey more affordable. His company is a hockey equipment rental company and their mission is to eliminate financial barriers to hockey participation. Go check out this amazing company! Rink Rat Rentals TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    SHORT SHIFTS - BODY CHECKING

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2025 10:52


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about body checking, what the proper way is to teach it, and how to get kids exposed to it safely. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    How You Do Anything Is How You Do Everything: An Inspiring Conversation with Guest Caroline Harvey - EP 388

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 57:06


    This week Topher and Jeff talk with Caroline Harvey, one of the most skilled players coming up in the game. She's a 2x NCAA champion with the University of Wisconsin, an Olympic silver medalist with Team USA, a 2x Women's World's gold medalist… and she's just getting started. In this episode we talk about: — Playing girls only vs co-ed hockey growing up — The USA vs Canada rivalry — Some of the adversities Harvey has faced in her career — How important life away from the game is in making you better on the ice AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! JOIN HTTU TODAY! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - PICKING CAPTAINS?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2025 10:42


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to discuss a listener's question; “how do you pick your captains?” We explore this topic for all age levels and suggest various responsibilities you can give them. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    SHORT SHIFTS - 2-1-2 FORECHECK

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2025 10:55


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about the 2-1-2 forecheck. We talk about this aggressive system and whether or not we like it. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    You Asked, Toph & Jeff Answered: Mailbag Episode - EP 387

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 66:15


    This week Topher and Jeff sit down for a mailbag episode to answer some of the questions our listeners have submitted recently. If you have a question you'd like for us to answer, DM us on our socials and we'll include it in our next mailbag episode! In this episode we talk about: — “Should checking be allowed in women's?” — “Will the US Development League cause sanity to break out?” — “As parents, how do we best support our 14U player being named captain of his team?” —  “True or false, 5 years from now, our sport will be better than it is today” AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! JOIN HTTU TODAY! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - HALF SHIELDS IN COLLEGE & WOMEN'S PRO?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2025 10:40


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about whether players should or should not be allowed to wear half shields starting in college, both on the men's and women's sides. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    SHORT SHIFTS - INTANGIBLE THINGS THAT SCOUTS LOOK FOR

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2025 12:52


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about the intangible things that scouts look for in players - because the scoresheet isn't the only thing that catches recruiters' attention. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Rethinking How We Develop Younger Hockey Players to Increase Retention Rates with Guests Judd Stauss & Tyler Palmiscno, East Grand Forks, MN Model - EP 386

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2025 65:24


    This week Topher talks with Judd Stauss and Tyler Palmiscno, of East Grand Forks, Minnesota. Stauss runs the youth hockey program in their area and Palmiscno is the head coach of last year's boys high school hockey state champion team. Seven years ago, they started a unique squirt-level pilot program that other areas are starting to model. The program does half-ice for ages 10 & below and no travel hockey for the first half of the year. In this episode we talk about: — Striving to increase retention rates throughout age groups — How to structure practices to optimize development — Finding compromise in the half-ice / full-ice debate by doing both in season AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! JOIN HTTU TODAY! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - PAYING TO WATCH YOUR KID PLAY?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2025 12:32


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about how some tournaments are charging parents to watch their kids play. We've heard they're not only charging an entry fee, but also sometimes a parking fee. We think this is WILD. Let's talk about it. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    SHORT SHIFTS - PENALTY KILL FORECHECK

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2025 10:37


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about penalty kill forechecks and how to make sure it's difficult for the opposing team to enter the zone. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    The Big Debate: Full-Ice vs Half-Ice Mite Hockey with Guest Uncle Timmy - EP 385

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2025 99:35


    This week Topher and Jeff bring back one of our most polarizing guests, Uncle Timmy, for a huge debate. We asked on our socials if anyone wanted to come on the show and debate whether mite hockey should be played on full or half ice, and who other than our own Uncle Timmy volunteered. Grab your popcorn Think Tankers, this one gets heated! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! JOIN HTTU TODAY! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - BENEFITS OF KEEP AWAY?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2025 10:50


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about the benefits of including keep away in every practice. We guarantee it will make your players better. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    SHORT SHIFTS - GETTING CUT FROM TEAM USA

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2025 13:04


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph is on the road and wants to tell the story of the time he got cut from Team USA. This is great insight for parents and players navigating adversity. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Developing Thoughtful Hockey Players with Guest Derek Edwardson, Indiana Elite Hockey Director - EP 384

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 72:14


    This week Topher and Jeff talk with Derek Edwardson, hockey director of the Indiana Elite Club out of Indianapolis. Edwardson played at Miami University and later played professionally in Europe. In this episode we talk about: — How players need to be great decision makers, since the game is so unpredictable — Developing the players you already have, not just finding the best players — How the best thing we can do as coaches is make the environment fun — Doing everything you can to make sure the parents get along AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! JOIN HTTU TODAY! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - PRE-SCOUT MEETINGS?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 12:00


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about a topic that came up in our coaching mentorship program the other day: pre-scouts. There are so many opinions on how to execute a pre-scout, so let's discuss the different ways to make your pre-scouts the most effective. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    SHORT SHIFTS - WHERE TO SHOOT TO SCORE

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 11:16


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about where to shoot on goalies to score more goals. Listen as we break down the specifics! TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    How Hockey Can Prepare You for Life with Guests Charlie Cook & Russ Sinkewich, Ohio Hockey Project - EP 383

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2025 75:04


    This week Topher and Jeff talk with Russ Sinkewich and Charlie Cook of the Ohio Hockey Project. Sinkewich is the Project Founder and Head Coach; Cook is the Director of Hockey Development. They join us to talk about finding life lessons, genuineness, and passion through the sport. In this episode we talk about: — How life lessons in sports are what get you far in life — That if a coach is hard on you it means they care — How to teach not only the sport, but also the things bigger than the game AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! JOIN HTTU TODAY! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - FULL ICE MITE HOCKEY?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2025 10:27


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about a hot topic we probably hear the most about from our listeners: full ice mite hockey. We have so many thoughts on this one… SO LET'S GO! TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    SHORT SHIFTS - SMALL AREA GAMES FOR SCORING MORE GOALS

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2025 10:33


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about our favorite small area games that are tailored toward scoring more goals. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Finding the Value in Hockey Beyond Scoring Points with Guest Matt Ford, Former Pro Player - EP 382

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2025 73:01


    This week Topher and Jeff talk with Matt Ford, former professional player and current owner of Ford Hockey School. Ford experienced a ton of adversity throughout his long and impressive hockey career; however, he joins us to talk about how that adversity is exactly what made him successful. In this episode we talk about: — Finding value in things other than scoring goals — The importance of finding the best coaching first when picking a team — Not trying to remove adversity for your players — Recognizing everyone's role in winning, not just the goal scorers AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! JOIN HTTU TODAY! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - GOALIE SHORTAGE?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2025 10:34


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about an issue that is plaguing our sport: goalie shortages. We have fewer and fewer kids playing goalie every year, and it is a serious problem we need to address. So let's talk about it. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    SHORT SHIFTS - TOP LIFE LESSON

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2025 10:51


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to ask Vechs about the top life lesson he has learned on his hockey journey that has helped him in every aspect of life. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    The Top Hockey Minds of Strength & Conditioning Training: Vechs' Mount Rushmore of Coaches - EP 381

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 77:34


    This week we celebrate Vechs' HUGE 40th birthday by bringing on his Mount Rushmore of strength and conditioning coaches in hockey. Michael Boyle, Matt Nichol, Brian Galivan, and Patrick Galivan join us to talk all things dryland training for hockey. In this episode we talk about: — The massive shift we're seeing in dryland agility in today's kids: better hands, but worse in the gym — Trying to sample as many different movement patterns as possible — Being realistic on what kids have access to nowadays — How much parents are wasting on expensive strength & conditioning coaching AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! JOIN HTTU TODAY! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - USA HOCKEY COACHING EDUCATION CHANGES?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 12:38


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph brings on guest Zack Nowak, Coordinator of Coaching Education Program for USA Hockey to talk about the new changes coming to USA Hockey's coaching curriculum. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    SHORT SHIFTS - DRILLS WE DID AS KIDS THAT WOULD BE LAUGHED AT TODAY

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 10:27


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about some of the drills we did when we were kids that would be laughed out of the rink today. Let us know on our socials which ones we missed! TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    How to Make Your Hockey Community Better by Taking Inspiration from the Minnesota Model with Guest Mike MacMillan, USA Hockey Coach-In-Chief - EP 380

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 84:02


    This week Topher and Jeff talk with Mike MacMillan, National Coach-In-Chief for USA Hockey and Minnesota Hockey's High Performance Director. We talk all things community model, its benefits for player development, and why Minnesota hockey is so successful. In this episode we talk about: — How playing experience isn't what the best coaches have in common — How everyone has to have a seat at the table to encourage hockey growth — Building programs, and not just creating individual teams within a program — How it's not what you coach, it's how you coach AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! JOIN HTTU TODAY! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - BAG SKATES?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2025 11:17


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about a super controversial topic in the hockey world: bag skates. Are they useful? When do you implement them? And how do you do it right? TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    SHORT SHIFTS - GETTING LOW IN YOUR STRIDE

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2025 11:20


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about getting low in your stride and the value of teaching kids this body positioning from a young age. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    Mental Performance Training & How it Can Improve Your Game with Guests Nick Johnson & Dustin Kohn, Mental Performance Coaches - EP 379

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2025 73:57


    This week Topher and Jeff talk with Nick Johnson and Dustin Kohn, owners of R&D Performance and providers of mental performance training for athletes and coaches. Both Johnson and Kohn played professionally and use that experience combined with their sports psychology backgrounds to train top athletes. In this episode we talk about: — How facing adversity is a completely normal part of growth — Reflecting on why you're training a certain way — Having the awareness as a parent to back off & not live through your child's sport — How external results shouldn't be what drives you AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! JOIN HTTU TODAY! R&D Performance Website Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - HOW TO PICK AN ADVISOR?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2025 11:38


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about how to pick an advisor. When is the right time to get one? And what should you ask them to determine if they are the right fit for you and your family? TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    SHORT SHIFTS - SETTING THE TONE AS A PLAYER

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2025 13:18


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about setting the tone for the beginning of the season as a player. Last week we talked about it from a coach's perspective, this time we're talking from the player's point of view. What's your mindset going into the first practice? TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    Finding Genuineness in Hockey & Staying True to Yourself No Matter the Journey with Guest Brock Sheahan, Notre Dame Head Coach - EP 378

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2025 65:23


    This week Topher and Jeff talk with Brock Sheahan, the new head coach for Notre Dame's Men's Ice Hockey team. After playing for Notre Dame when he was younger, playing professionally, and then serving two seasons as the associate head coach, he has been named as the head coach for the upcoming 2025-26 season. In this episode we talk about: — Understanding where your coaches are coming from and how much they care — Setting expectations at the beginning of the season — Not changing who you are when you become a coach & letting your players get to know you — The biggest consistencies top players have AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! JOIN HTTU TODAY! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - COLLEGE HOCKEY MAJOR JUNIOR?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2025 11:42


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about the changing college hockey landscape. This is the last week in our three part series, and this time we're talking about how players from the Canadian Hockey League (a.k.a Major Junior) are now eligible to play college hockey at the Division I level. This will completely change the college hockey experience, so let's talk about it. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    SHORT SHIFTS - SETTING THE TONE FOR THE SEASON

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2025 11:49


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about setting the tone for the beginning of the season. What should you do as a coach on the first day to set the standard? TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    An Honest Conversation on the Balance in Youth Hockey (Part 2) - EP 377

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2025 62:41


    This week Topher and Jeff fly solo again for part two in this two week series to discuss some of the common polarizing questions we hear about in youth hockey. Listen as we go back and forth about what is best for today's players. In this episode we talk about: — Is it best to be the top kid or bottom kid on a team — Coaching to the skill of the top or bottom players — All fun & games or all challenging — Practice to game ratio AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! If you'd like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out! PARENTS & RECRUITING 101 COURSES BLUEPRINT ORGANIZATION REFERRAL Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - COLLEGE HOCKEY NIL MONEY?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2025 10:48


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about the changing college hockey landscape. This is week two in our three part series, and we're here to talk about NIL money - “Name, Image, & Likeness.” Listen for our thoughts on whether or not it is beneficial to college hockey. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    SHORT SHIFTS - FACEOFF PLAYS

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2025 11:05


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about our favorite faceoff plays, both offensively and defensively. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!  We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    An Honest Conversation on the Balance in Youth Hockey (Part 1) - EP 376

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2025 86:08


    This week Topher and Jeff fly solo in this two part series to discuss some of the common polarizing questions we hear about in youth hockey. Listen as we go back and forth about what is best for today's players. In this episode we talk about: — Development vs winning — Professional model vs community model — Structure vs letting kids play — Hard coaching vs not coaching AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! If you'd like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out! PARENTS & RECRUITING 101 COURSES BLUEPRINT ORGANIZATION REFERRAL Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - COLLEGE HOCKEY TRANSFER PORTAL?!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 11:58


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about the changing college hockey landscape. In this three part series, we first talk about the transfer portal: what it is and how it will drastically affect college hockey going forward. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    SHORT SHIFTS - WATCHING GAME FOOTAGE WITH HELIOS HOCKEY

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 19:08


    On today's SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph talks to HELIOS Hockey's JP Buckley, former Boston University and Bruins Video Coach. We talk about the HELIOS Sensor, the benefits of watching your game footage, and the chance to win your very own HELIOS tracker. Check out the challenge at the link below. HELIOS HOCKEY CHALLENGE TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!  We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    Smaller Players, Resiliency, & Developing with Intention with Guest Kevin Clark, Former Pro Player - EP 375

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 66:58


    This week Topher and Jeff talk with Kevin Clark, former University of Alaska Anchorage men's ice hockey team player, former DEL and AHL player, and current player development and video analysis coach with Cascade Hockey.  In this episode we talk about: — Mentality of being a smaller player — Getting kicked off teams and facing adversity head on — Focusing on developing yourself by becoming a versatile player — Watching your games to find patterns and specific skills you need to work on AND SO MUCH MORE! Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, Helios Hockey, and Crossbar! And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! If you'd like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out! HELIOS HOCKEY CHALLENGE PARENTS & RECRUITING 101 COURSES BLUEPRINT ORGANIZATION REFERRAL Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

    FRIDAY FACEOFF - HEAD COACH/ASSISTANT COACH RELATIONSHIP

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2025 11:47


    On today's FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to answer a listener question about the relationship between a head coach and an assistant coach in youth hockey. How do you best utilize your assistant coaches? And if you are on different pages, how can you best work that out as an assistant? TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites! Follow us: IG: @HockeyThinkTank X (Twitter): @HockeyThinkTank TikTok: @HockeyThinkTank Facebook: TheHockeyThinkTank

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