The High Performance Hockey Podcast: Recent Episodes
Anthony Donskov, PhD
Hosted by former player, performance coach, author and speaker Anthony Donskov, the HPH podcast is a bi-monthly show that explores the science, practice and pedagogy of high performers in the sport of ice hockey.
Your mind is one of your greatest assets as an athlete. This week, I sit down with Ben Fanelli, the Founder of Heroic Minds, a brand new self-help tool right at your fingertips. Following a major injury in his early game career that changed the trajectory of his life, Ben has shifted to the world of psychotherapy for high performance players. We speak about the surprising gifts of injury he gained from his incident and the powerful lesson of finding meaning in suffering. We also dig into the mental side of the game–how to balance the physical and mental prepwork, the peaks and valleys all athletes experience in their careers, and learning to be one with the journey.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Introducing the Founder of Heroic Minds, Ben Fanelli!
01:10 How did the incident in your early game career impact your life?
05:30 What are some of the gifts of injury?
11:25 How to reframe challenges into growth.
14:25 Why is “more” not actually better?
22:20 Ways athletes can balance the mental side of the game.
25:20 How Heroic Minds helps players with mental & physical prepwork.
30:15 How to combat comparison on social media.
36:20 What to expect from the Heroic Minds app.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Download the Heroic Minds app HERE
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Are you ready for the off-season? Today, I sit down for a solo episode where I go over some recent lessons I’ve learned & updates we’ve made to our program as we move into summer. I also highlight some frequently asked intern questions and dive into details about my new lecture series, Jump Training for Ice Hockey: A Complimentary Approach—who it’s for and why it’s important. From integral takeaways for young strength & conditioning coaches to deficient-based vs. performance-based models in the private sector, this conversation covers everything coaches need to prepare for their athletes for the off-season.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 The changes we’ve made to our summer programming model.
04:05 What should coaches be focusing on?
06:00 Mobility patterns for advanced-based athletes.
11:10 What are the qualities of a great strength & conditioning coach?
16:00 The differences in programming in the private sector.
19:45 What do all young coaches need to read?
21:30 A quick look at my new lecture series, Jump Training for Ice Hockey.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Jump Training for Ice Hockey | A Complimentary Approach
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
What does player development look like at the top levels of play? Today’s guest is Dallas Stars Skill Coach, Stan Tugolukov, who works closely with players in skill development and individual on-ice post-injury conditioning roles. We speak about everything a skill coach needs to know, from game patterns to player development and designing skill sessions for both the high performance and youth levels. Stan shares his fundamentals for development at younger ages (6-8, 8-10, 10-12), and the must-have skillwork to set up your young athletes for future success. We also explore the differences in the game now versus then, layering skill packages for elite performers, return to play and off-season drills and reps, and more.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Meet Stan Tugolukov, the Dallas Stars Skill Coach!
01:35 How did you get involved in the game back in Russia, and who were your mentors?
05:35 The differences between American youth players and Russian youth players.
12:05 What are your duties as a skill coach with the Dallas Stars?
17:25 Stan’s player development philosophy fundamentals.
21:40 How do you choose drills and patterns to focus on, for non-injured players?
25:45 Designing return to play and off-season skill sessions.
32:50 How to approach skill development in pro players versus youth athletes.
38:05 The important skills for developing young athletes (U8-U12).
43:10 How has the game and hockey IQ evolved, then versus now?
47:40 How to layer skill packages for your elite players.
50:50 Advice for young skill coaches who want to work in high-end hockey.
53:40 How do you want to be remembered in the game?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
What does the day to day of a high performance skill coach look like? Joining me once again is Troy Smith, the owner of Hockey IQ! With his extensive experience as a player and a coach at both the amateur and professional levels, he’s sharing his must-haves for coaches to take their players to the elite level. Our conversation will cover everything you need to know about the life of a skill coach, including Troy’s approach to skill training, his recommended do’s and don’ts for the off-season, the secret to training processing speed in your athletes, and more. We go over how to handle communication not only with your athletes, but with staff members, as well as Troy’s take on the software of the game that got his community talking. We also take a lens to the current NHL playoffs, our first impressions, and the style of play we’re seeing—most of all, what it’ll take to get to the third round.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Welcome back to the podcast, Troy Smith, owner of Hockey IQ!
01:40 How has Hockey IQ evolved as a business?
04:15 What are your must-have fundamentals for players?
09:35 How to communicate with your athletes as a skill coach.
13:05 The do’s and don’ts of off-season training.
20:30 What is the best way to coach younger vs. older players?
24:20 How do you approach the software of the game?
28:05 The best tool to train processing speed.
32:45 The top three athletes to watch for elite processing speed.
36:05 What are your biggest takeaways from the playoffs so far?
41:35 What it’ll take to make it to the third round of the playoffs.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Hockey IQ on YouTube | HockeyIQca
Follow Hockey IQ on Instagram | @hockeyiqcan
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Get ready to geek out on everything from stride mechanics to off-ice training strategies. In this episode, I sit down with Joel Becker, lead performance coach of GameChangers. Joel brings an incredible background from speed skating and hockey. We break down the nuanced world of speed development, discussing how understanding force application, time, and direction can transform an athlete's performance. Joel shares some killer insights on off-ice imitation exercises that'll revolutionize how strength coaches approach hockey training - think deep, uncomfortable isometric holds that build incredible hip and leg strength. We explore game speed, hockey IQ, and the subtle art of translating linear speed into on-ice performance. If you're a coach looking to understand the intricate details of skating mechanics and athlete development, this episode is an absolute must-listen. Trust me, you'll walk away with practical strategies you can implement immediately with your athletes.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Meet Joel Becker, expert in the world of skating and hockey biomechanics.
01:45 How can lessons from speed skating biomechanics improve your hockey game?
03:45 Hockey Stride and Biomechanics.
09:30 The importance of foot strike and how it affects skating technique and speed.
28:00 Off-Ice Training and Pattern Specific Work.
28:15 How do you elevate your game speed and hockey IQ simultaneously?
34:30 Joel’s integrated training model, including off-ice exercises and on-ice work.
37:18 Off-Ice Imitation Exercises.
51:00 Ankle Mobility and Skating.
55:45 Where can we connect with you and learn more?
RESOURCES + LINKS
The ABC of skating imitation exercises,
Game Changers Training, 15 Minute Off-Skates Dryland Workout, Plyometric Workout
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
As we wrap up the season, it’s time we highlight the importance of programming. Today, I unpack the 3-day rollover programming — AKA, the Gain, Go, and Grow model — we use at Donskov Conditioning to train and prepare our athletes. I’ll walk through the main pillars and foundational principles of the model, what to expect from the program, and how it benefits hockey players of all demographics (young or advanced levels). Most of all, I share how we instill important skills all athletes need to keep evolving and produce results when game day comes.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 What I tell my young athletes for off season training.
03:55 The origin + main pillars of the Gain, Go, and Grow model.
06:55 Who is the rollover program for?
09:10 What to expect from the 3-day program.
14:05 How the Gain, Go, and Grow model benefits the athletes.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Mal McHugh, a legend in sports science, to dive deep into the world of metrics and performance. We're talking about the good, the bad, and the ugly of measuring athletes – from force plates to jump profiles. Dr. McHugh breaks down why not all metrics are created equal, and how teams can actually use data to prevent injuries and understand player performance. We'll explore everything from how young hockey players should tie their skates to the complex world of tracking an athlete's physical decline. Trust me, you'll walk away with a whole new perspective on sports science and how data can (and can't) tell the full story of an athlete's potential.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Skate lacing for young players.
02:00 Meet Dr. Mal McHugh, sports medicine researcher and Director of Research at NISMAT.
04:30 Problems with the current hyper-focus on metrics without proper context.
06:00 What is the importance of defining problems and validation?
14:45 How to simplify complex systems (and stop measuring “trees” without understanding the “forest”).
29:15 Counter movement jumps and force plate analysis.
41:45 The importance of impulse and rate of force development in assessing athletes' performance.
48:00 Addressing specific injuries and preventing recurrent injuries.
01:03:00 How to use metrics to assess athletes' physical attributes, effort, stress, and recovery.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Today I’m joined by Dr. Alicia Naser, a board-certified behavior analyst who's revolutionizing mental performance in hockey. She's not your typical sports psychologist - she uses applied behavioral analysis to help NHL players optimize their game, focusing on everything from confidence to self-talk. We dive into how environment shapes behavior, the importance of mental resilience, and why understanding your own psychological patterns can be a game-changer. If you want to learn how top athletes build mental toughness, trust me, you're going to want to hear what Dr. Naser has to say - she breaks down complex psychological concepts in a way that'll have you rethinking how you approach challenges both on and off the ice.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Meet Dr. Alicia Nasser
06:30 Dr. Naser’s shift from working with neurodevelopmental disabilities to professional athletes.
08:45 What are differences between ABA and traditional Mental Skills Coaches?
11:15 The impact of environment on athlete performance.
15:00 What can we do to build mental resilience in young athletes?
24:30 Common reasons players seek help.
28:30 What is the typical process athletes should expect working with you?
32:00 The importance of providing the brain with proof of past achievements.
41:15 What is the impact you’re seeing social media is having on athletes?
42:00 The path to creating long-term success and maintaining behavioral changes.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Follow Dr. Alicia: https://linktr.ee/alicianaser
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
It’s one thing to bring out the full potential of your athletes, but another thing to develop that potential for future success. Our guest today is Will Morlock, Director of Hockey Performance from Michigan State University, where his primary role has been training the hockey program since he joined the Athletic Performance staff in 2022. We go in-depth about developing collegiate hockey players, and what it takes to maximize athletic development in an applied sports science setting. Will walks us through his people-first approach to coaching — how he builds team culture, amplifies adaptations through specialized training methods, develops microcycles during the in season, and more.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Which methods do I use within the Gain, Go, Grow model?
04:05 How do you utilize applied sports science with your collegiate players?
06:40 What to prioritize when building culture in a college setting.
09:40 How do you approach management versus development in high performance hockey?
13:25 The most important force plate measurements to look for.
16:40 How to make informed decisions using numbers.
18:15 The coaching philosophy that maximizes athletic development.
24:50 When and how to fit technology into your schedule.
29:00 Which methods do you use to amplify adaptations?
31:35 What are your tried-and-true methods?
34:05 Unpacking the current pendulum swing in high performance hockey.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Contact Will via email | morlockw@msu.edu
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
In order to be an Olympic level coach, you need the right methods to back you up. In this episode, I sit down with the man, the myth, the mad scientist Cal Dietz, Head Olympic Strength Coach of the University of Minnesota. He walks us through his triphasic training method, including the foundational principles he uses to turn on, train, and transfer the system. We unpack the pros and cons of free thinking versus thinking inside the box before deep diving into the physiology behind Cal’s go-to drills & exercises. Tune in for an educational hour unpacking elite tools & methods young strength coaches can rely on to correct patterns, drive results, and increase capacity in their athletes.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00:00 What is on my reading list?
00:03:25 What are the foundations of triphasic training?
00:10:50 The importance of knowing how to think inside the box.
00:19:25 How to use exercises and patterns to test your programs.
00:27:50 What is the RPR system and how do you use it?
00:33:40 How RPR fixes patterns, even in elite athletes.
00:42:10 What are the three main foundations you address with RPR?
00:46:35 The magic & physiology behind the Olympic goat drill.
00:55:40 How do you use the supramaximal method to drive results?
01:05:05 Understanding the physiology of supramax loading phases.
01:09:00 Methods for fast-twitch capacity sequencing.
01:15:40 How to build programs that complement strength training.
01:23:20 Why placement of the foot is essential for transfer.
01:29:55 Which methods do you gravitate the most towards?
01:35:20 How do you want to be remembered?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Anthony’s reading list -
Triphasic Training by Cal Deitz
Belfry Hockey by Darryl Belfry
How to Make the World Add Up by Tim Harford
Subscribe to Cal’s YouTube channel | https://www.youtube.com/@CalvinDietz
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
What do young coaches need to know about working with high performing athletes in the private versus college sectors? In today’s episode, I sit down with Rob Dombrowski, the Director of Hockey Performance at Sacred Heart University. Prior to working in the college sector, Rob served at Prentiss Hockey Performance as a Director of Performance for nine years. Our conversation covers his unique experiences in both the private sector developing pro athletes & in the collegiate sector with the men’s and women’s ice hockey teams. We also unpack his programming philosophy, the main life lessons that shaped his coaching skills, and the go-to methods he uses to drive performance forward.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 How do you program jump training for hockey players?
02:45 Introducing Rob Dombrowski, the Director of Hockey Performance at Sacred Heart University.
04:55 What were your duties and responsibilities while working in the private sector?
08:55 How did you form your programming philosophy?
12:20 Unpacking Rob’s programming for hip health & hip injury prevention.
18:35 The main life lessons from working in the private sector.
26:10 How are you currently developing your performance-based model?
29:15 How to cultivate an ideal environment for growth right off the bat.
33:25 What values do you look for in technology and in testing?
40:50 The biggest ‘a-ha’ moments while using Catapult.
44:20 Programming differences for upperclassmen versus underclassmen.
47:05 What are your tried and true methods that haven’t changed?
50:50 How have you changed your methods to drive performance?
58:15 What are we doing well, and what needs to change?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Want a deeper understanding of a coach's approach to training high performing, professional athletes in the private sector? We've got the right guy. In today’s episode, I speak with Curt Truhe, the Director of Performance for Excel Sports Management. Curt has over 13 years of experience training athletes across multiple professional sports leagues – including NHL, NFL, MLB, PGA, and more. We dig into everything you need to know about developing and working with elite athletes at the highest level. Curt shares his advice for young coaches, the skills & qualities that separate a good coach from a great coach, and foundational measurements he looks out for. Tune in to discover how to ignore the noise and move the needle forward for your athletes.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 My top recommended books & their biggest takeaways.
04:10 What did your path as a young coach in the private sector look like?
08:40 How do you develop elite athletes at Excel Sports Management?
16:50 Which metrics & measurements did you value the most?
22:40 How to test health and performance in athletes.
28:50 The right and the wrong way to use data.
34:05 Where is the pendulum swinging in the performance landscape?
39:15 Advice for young coaches who want to work with professional athletes.
46:05 What qualities do you admire for a coach on your staff?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Get your copy of Force by Dan Cleather on Amazon HERE
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Curt on Instagram | @curt_truhe
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
What were the biggest lessons I learned over the past year? Today’s episode is a reflection and contemplation of 2024. It’s now the second year of the HPH podcast, so let’s take the opportunity to look back on what has been a year full of growth – both personally and professionally. I share my favorite nuggets of wisdom from previous guests of the podcast, including some of the most impactful quotes that have stuck with me. I also highlight practical advice for coaches, young or seasoned, who are looking to grow the game in 2025 and beyond.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 2024: A year of reflection and contemplation.
01:40 My biggest teaching lessons from coaching a U10 team.
08:10 How to find what you’re looking for & fix what you need to fix.
11:30 Where do measurement errors come from?
15:50 A cooperative approach to communication with advanced players.
17:25 How do you become a good coach?
20:50 My 2024 must-read books.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out my 2024 recommended books -
The Coach’s Guide to Teaching by Doug Lemov
Force by Dan Cleather
The Little Black Book of Training Wisdom by Dan Cleather
Strength Training for Hockey by NCSA, edited by Kevin Neeld and Brijesh Patel
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
What does a lifetime pursuit of high performance look like? Today’s guest is the President of Strength Tek Fitness and Wellness, Lorne Goldenberg. As a strength & conditioning OG, Lorne brings extensive experience in high performance sports and has worked with thousands of pro hockey stars over the years. We dive into his career high points, including his early days in the NHL during the 80’s and 90’s and how the landscape has changed in present-day. We also explore his aerobic training concepts and methods, pendulum swings in technology and coaching, and the fundamentals for driving your players forward. Tune in for a fantastic conversation all about strength and performance, backed by over 40 years of experience.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 What advanced training methods do you use for your athletes with large training ages?
04:00 The early days as an NHL head strength & conditioning coach.
10:20 What qualities did you admire most in your mentors?
13:55 What did you value the most as a young coach?
18:45 The main concepts of Lorne’s aerobic training article.
25:05 Methods for working the aerobic system.
27:30 Pendulum swings in the technology landscape.
33:45 What is the metric burger?
35:24 How can high performance coaching improve?
38:00 Fundamentals for young strength & conditioning coaches.
40:15 Advice for parents and young athletes.
43:55 How do you want to be remembered?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
We’re answering an important question all coaches ask: How can we leave our profession in a better place? Today’s guest is a friend and mentor of mine, Mike Robertson. Mike is the Founder and President of Robertson Training Systems with over 20 years of coaching experience. In this episode, we talk extensively about coaching in the private sector. Mike shares the biggest changes and mistakes young coaches can make, as well as unpack his current business model and training philosophy. From step by step training systems to technology, we discuss everything aspiring coaches need to know to sustain a level of high quality for their athletes.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 How does in-season programming change from a philosophy standpoint?
06:00 Where did you get your start with coaching?
10:30 How to teach work ethic and curiosity to the next generation of coaches.
15:40 What steps are young coaches skipping?
18:35 How has your business model changed?
23:00 The secret ingredient to sustain quality in your business.
29:00 The current landscape of coaching burnout.
32:30 What is the R7 training system?
35:50 How to efficiently on-board clients in the private sector.
40:30 The most valuable technology from a coaching perspective.
45:00 What metrics do you look for and why?
48:45 How to fuse skill with weight touches.
52:00 What are the best resources for coaches?
55:10 How do you want to be remembered in our field?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Become an elite level coach at https://robertsontrainingsystems.com/
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Get ready to level up your strength training know-how for high performance hockey! Kevin Neeld and Brijesh Patel return to the podcast to discuss Strength Training for Hockey, an important resource for hockey players and coaches alike. We’ll dive into the core aspects of the book, who it’s for, and the gap it fills in the ice hockey performance world. As we go, our guests share advice for young strength coaches to get ahead of the game and equip themselves with higher knowledge of strength training. Don’t miss your chance to learn from one of the most invaluable resources for high performing athletes and coaches.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Introducing Strength Training for Hockey with Kevin Neeld and Brijesh Patel.
03:50 What led to you getting involved with the book?
07:20 How young strength coaches can get more opportunities in the field.
14:55 Strength training for hockey versus other sports.
19:10 What was the BTS process for choosing contributors for the book?
22:15 What are the main lessons and takeaways of the book?
26:20 Foundational principles for designing a training program.
34:10 What have been the biggest changes in sports performance?
40:35 The future of high performance hockey.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Get your copy of Strength Training for Hockey on Amazon
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
As coaches, how can we instill our team with one of the most important skills in the game: hockey IQ? Joining us today is Troy Smith, the owner of Hockey IQ – an outstanding, elite video breakdown resource for hockey players and coaches alike. Our conversation is all about hockey IQ + how we can teach and improve it. We’ll dive deep into the X’s and O’s of the game, breaking down game patterns and principles with Troy’s expert eye. Whether you’re training the next generation of athletes or working with professionals at the NHL-level, this episode will equip you with the knowledge they need to play at their smartest.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 How do you write better programs as a young coach?
04:35 Who were the mentors + influences that shaped you?
10:55 The difficulties of transitioning from player to coach.
15:25 How to develop your craft as a young coach.
18:00 How do you navigate a hard tragedy?
21:30 Strategies for teaching + improving hockey IQ.
25:35 Breaking down game patterns and principles.
34:00 How to teach D-Zone skills to young + pro players.
39:35 What are basic concepts for the neutral zone?
45:15 The NHL-level patterns of the O-Zone.
47:45 How to utilize shared terminology with your team.
49:50 What is your vision with Hockey IQ?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Hockey IQ - https://www.hockeyiq.ca
Follow Hockey IQ on Instagram | @hockeyiqcan
For questions and more info, just Email - info@hockeyiq.ca
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
What is the best way to set up the next generation of high performing athletes for success? Joining me today is Mark Fitzgerald, head coach for Kelowna High Performance + founder of Elite Training Systems in Ontario, who has spent the last 15 years working with athletes from a variety of sports at every level. We have an educational hour diving into long-term athletic development for youth hockey. We’ll unpack everything there is about coaching young hockey players, from the pitfalls of the “more is better” mentality to the current state of affairs and its future. Mark also shares his game plan for developing athletes, building team culture, and training for sustainable success on and off the ice. Whether you’re a coach or a parent, you’ll gain key information to best support your young athlete!
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00:00 Youth development: long-term process over short-term success.
00:04:00 How did you step into your current appointment?
00:11:35 How to build culture + relationships in a new position.
00:21:00 Building team culture then versus now.
00:28:50 How do you build trust with your athletes?
00:33:05 Reframing the “more is better” mentality in youth hockey.
00:45:45 The common pitfalls of coaching youth hockey.
00:52:30 How do you teach + train for long-term success?
00:59:45 The most consistent way to get results.
01:05:20 How can we make youth hockey better?
01:10:00 What advice would you give to young coaches?
01:17:50 The key to balance work, life, and relationships.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
What is the secret formula for building a high performing team? This week’s special guest is Steve Spott, the Assistant Coach of the Dallas Stars. During his three years in Dallas, Steve has guided the club to back-to-back Western Conference final appearances over the past two seasons. Today, we’re diving into lessons from the coaches corner to talk life, hockey, coaching, and more. We’ll unpack the X’s and O’s of the game to see how they’ve evolved and what it takes to coach elite players towards victory. Steve also shares his advice to young practitioners + players, giving tips on achieving work-life balance and building a good team both on and off the ice. Let’s go behind the bench to discover how an elite coach takes his team to the next level!
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Why is everyone scared of developing optimized skating technique?
05:30 The transition from player to full-time coach.
11:30 What mentors changed the way you viewed the game?
14:05 How have the X’s and O’s of the game changed?
18:00 Advice for pre-scouting + teaching elite players.
24:50 What are the hallmarks of a good team on and off ice?
30:30 The key to balancing work and life during a busy season.
34:15 How has sports science evolved since you’ve been a coach?
37:25 How do you communicate sports performance?
41:30 What advice would you give to young coaches + players?
45:45 What do you want your legacy to be?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Let's talk about the global growth of Hockey. Hassan Saeed is the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for CSKA Moscow in the KHL, Russia's top professional hockey league. With over 12 years of experience working in the Russian hockey system, Hassan provides a unique perspective on the cultural differences, training methodologies, and coaching philosophies between North America and Europe. In this episode, we dive into Hassan’s transition from Canada to Russia as a strength coach, managing language barriers, and working collaboratively with European hockey coaches who have their own established training models. Listen in for this fascinating look at the global growth and evolution of hockey development.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 What mentors shaped your career?
07:45 How Barry Brennan connected Hassan to his first job opportunity in Russia.
10:00 The cultural and language shock of transitioning from Canada to Russia.
13:00 Differences in training methodologies and athlete preparation between North America and Russia.
18:30 How has the role of data analytics and sports science evolved in the KHL over the past 4-5 years?
22:30 Similarities in day-to-day in-season training approaches between the KHL and North America.
25:00 How did you build a positive team culture and rapport with players by learning the Russian language?
31:15 The importance of distinguishing between "interesting" and "important" data metrics.
32:00 The legendary status and influence of Anatoli Tarasov, the "father of Russian hockey."
36:15 What advice would you give North American coaches looking to gain experience in the KHL?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
What are some of the biggest lessons we learn while in pursuit of high performance excellence? Today’s special guest is a good friend of mine, Andrew Hauser, who has worked in a variety of roles in the past 14 years as an Athletic Trainer and Strength & Conditioning Coach, before switching to the private setting with Continuum Performance. In this episode, we’ll dive into his years of experience, including the main takeaways from his most recent role as the Director of Performance Rehab for the LA Dodgers. He’ll share advice for putting together a high performance team, tips for integration and communication, as well as building gradual changes within a team. Then, we switch gears to discuss the pros and cons of the private sector + pendulum swings in comprehensive care and what we can do better as coaches for our athletes. Whether you’re in the professional or private sphere, you’ll gain new insight into high development and high performance!
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00:00 Meet the Swiss Army knife of professional and private sectors, Andrew Hauser.
00:02:45 Why did you choose performance psychology as your Masters?
00:05:20 Main takeaways from studying elite performance psychology.
00:12:55 What were your duties with the Dodgers?
00:15:00 How to integrate + put together a high performance team.
00:23:10 How do you build changes within a team?
00:27:10 The pros and cons of the private sector.
00:32:50 How to leverage your role and network.
00:36:45 What is your process for treatment assessments?
00:45:05 What metrics do you look at on the plate?
00:50:00 A new way to monitor athletes, curves, + outliers.
00:56:15 Where is the pendulum swinging in comprehensive care?
01:00:35 What qualities of the high performance sector need to expand?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Learn more about Andrew - https://www.continuumhp.com
Atomic Habits by James Clear
The Tyranny of Metrics by Jerry Muller
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
If you want to develop your players to the high performance level, we’ve got your guy. Today’s guest is the Development Coach for the Columbus Blue Jackets, Tommy Cross. Tommy played 12 seasons of professional hockey before retiring following the ‘22-’23 season, and now works with drafted prospects through the transition from college to pro. We’ll speak about development at the National Hockey League level, and his philosophies and coachings that help his athletes reach the ultimate goal of the NHL. We’ve got an educational hour in store for you as we dive into key metrics + non-negotiables for developing and growing young players both on and off the ice. Tommy also shares the challenges of current day player development as well as the future of development coaching as a whole. Everything you need to know about player development, all in one place.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Meet the Development Coach for the Columbus Blue Jackets, Tommy Cross.
02:10 The importance of mentorship + leadership skills.
06:30 Perspective as a player versus as a coach.
08:00 What are your tasks as a development coach?
14:50 What is your coaching philosophy?
20:30 The principles + patterns for success.
26:35 Key metrics for developing young players.
31:10 Shared terminology + closing the gap with communication.
36:30 Coaching player transition periods + on and off ice.
41:10 Challenges for player development today.
44:20 What is the future of development coaching?
48:10 How do you want to be remembered?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Loose Pucks and Ice Bags by Dave King
The Coach’s Guide to Teaching by Doug Lemov
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
How do you become a teacher that ensures the future success of your players? Today, class is in session with Ben Eaves, the strength & conditioning coach for the Cleveland Monsters. Ben is here to share experiences from his background as both an elite player and development coach for high performing athletes. Our conversation will focus on his position and role as a strength & conditioning coach, from the important aspects like connection and development to his philosophy of the game and how it shapes his coaching. Ben shows us how to start from the scoreboard and work backward, fusing it with his strength & conditioning for his players to succeed. We also take a lens to skill sessions, the non-negotiables, training difficult tangibles + intangibles, and even more. Tune in to learn from one of the best coaches, teachers, and professionals in the game!
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Introducing Ben Eaves, strength & conditioning and skill coach for the Cleveland Monsters!
02:30 What was the impact your family had on you personally + professionally?
07:10 The tasks of a development coach with the Cleveland Monsters.
13:20 What is your overarching philosophy as a strength coach?
18:15 Elements to look at for on and off ice developmental players.
24:50 Skill session walkthrough + non-negotiables.
34:20 Pattern recognition + mindset at a high performance level.
37:15 The difficulty of training stride mechanics.
41:15 How do you communicate results as a strength coach?
44:20 How to put together the ideal performance staff.
48:00 What is the biggest lesson for young practitioners?
49:55 How do you want to be remembered?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
What is the secret to assessing, training, and integrating technology with performance? Here to dive into the deep physiology of ice hockey is Brian Kozak, a respiratory & performance coach. Brian has dedicated decades to experimenting with cutting edge technology in pursuit of real time insights into each system’s limiters, compensators, and their implications for training, rehab, and recovery. Today, we have a fantastic conversation all about the technology and physiology behind high performance athletics. Brian shares his efficient training methods for utilization, delivery, breathing mechanics, and more. From measuring oxygen saturation to building capillary density, we’ll be discussing the best ways to train both body and mind. Tune in for an in depth lesson on the applied physiology of high performance hockey!
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00:00 What does Moxy technology show us?
00:08:00 How can we push players by using technology?
00:15:00 What is the physiology behind strides?
00:19:30 How to measure + read SmO2 and THb.
00:26:05 Tactics of training athletes in survival state.
00:35:00 Peripheral versus central adaptation.
00:44:05 How do you assess utilization or delivery?
00:53:35 The best way to build capillary density.
01:04:35 Methods for training delivery.
01:14:20 How do we teach proper breathing techniques?
01:21:40 How do you train the most important skill?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Moxy Monitors -
https://www.moxymonitor.com/
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Brian on Instagram | @brian_t_kozak
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
If you’ve ever wondered how to approach coaching from an applied sports science POV, then you’re in the right place. Joining me on the podcast today is Dr. Josh Secomb, lecturer in Exercise & Sports Science at the University of Newcastle, and strength & conditioning coach for Ice Hockey Australia National Men’s team! We’ll be deep diving into the world of applied sports science to discover how an elite-level coach maximizes + optimizes his research. We speak on Josh’s teachings, duties, and roles as a lecturer and strength & conditioning coach, analyzing his upcoming presentation titled Optimizing the Utilization of Research to Enhance Athlete Performance and the article he co-authored with Matt Kelly, Associations Between Hip Pathology, Hip and Groin Pain, and Injuries in Hockey Athletes. We have a comprehensive discussion in-store to better understand the role of sports science researchers, applied sports science as a whole, and their relation to enhancing the game of high-performance athletes. Find out the steps to optimizing your research through the lens of sports science!
#DrJoshSecomb #AppliedSportsScience #HighPerformanceAthletes
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00:00 Introducing Dr. Josh Secomb, lecturer in Exercise & Sports Science at the University of Newcastle + strength & conditioning coach for Ice Hockey Australia National Men’s team!
00:05:35 Defining applied sports science, the roles of sports science researchers + the Texas sharpshooter fallacy.
00:16:35 How to teach critical thinking skills to young practitioners.
00:24:25 How did you get involved with Ice Hockey Australia and what are your current roles?
00:34:30 Check out the Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey + The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual!
00:35:20 Making research relevant to high-performing athletes.
00:41:10 Breaking down the four coactive elements from a coach’s POV.
00:47:30 What questions do you ask yourself when looking at other observational research?
00:55:00 What do you think is making hip injuries more prevalent in hockey players?
01:05:00 Simplifying FAI rehab for asymptomatic athletes.
RESOURCES + LINKS
Follow Josh on Twitter | @37seco
Follow Josh on LinkedIn | Josh Secomb
Associations Between Hip Pathology, Hip and Groin Pain, and Injuries in Hockey Athletes by Matt Kelly and Josh Secomb
The End of Average by Todd Rose
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
How far has strength & conditioning gone in the past 20 years? Here with me today is Sean Skahan, owner of Skahan Sport Conditioning with 20+ years of high performance under his belt! We’ll speak about Sean’s 2 decades worth of experience within the NHL and the strength & conditioning landscape as a whole. Sean reflects on his journey, going from an elite college setting to now owning + running a sport conditioning company working with young athletes. We’ll discuss coaching changes in the strength & conditioning field, how he navigated major transitions, and the important lessons he gained during his time in the high performance sphere. If you’re curious how much high performance sports has evolved, then you’re in the right place. Join the conversation for 20+ years of learnings, lessons, and reflections!
HIGHLIGHTS
02:00 What led you to becoming an NHL strength coach?
08:35 Then versus now: Coaching changes in the strength & conditioning landscape.
14:05 Unpacking the human element in the high performance sphere.
23:50 What were your biggest mistakes + goals during your first few years?
26:25 Check out the High Performance Masterclass!
27:45 How did you handle new coaching changes + transitions over 20 years?
33:00 A BTS peek into owning and running a sport conditioning company.
44:35 Education within the private sector.
49:05 What advice would you share with young coaches?
RESOURCES + LINKS
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The impact of A Coach’s Guide to Strength Development on coaches.
- Expert advice for young practitioners and coaches.
- The deeper fundamentals behind strength & conditioning.
- How to build a coaching culture for long term growth.
Resources + Links:
Follow Stu on Instagram | @fingermash
Follow Jordan on Instagram | @jordanstrength
Learn more at https://www.jordanstrength.com/
Check out ALTIS - https://altis.world/
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
In a world full of noise, how can you find what really matters? Joining us once again is CEO of ALTIS, Stu McMillan, and Assistant Professor at the University of Calgary, Dr. Matt Jordan! This dynamic duo is back on the podcast to talk about their blog series, A Coach’s Guide to Strength Development, and the impact it had on younger and older coaches alike. We’ll dive into the different sections of the blog to gain a deeper understanding in the field of strength & conditioning. Through this insightful discussion, we’ll uncover the important fundamentals for all strength & conditioning coaches, including physiology, adaptation, personal leadership, periodization, and more. No matter if you’re just starting out, or a seasoned practitioner, tune in for an educational look into the world of strength coaching!
00:00:00 Welcome back to the podcast, Stu McMillan and Dr. Matt Jordan!
00:07:40 How did you two meet?
00:12:35 Who were your shared mentors, and why was that mentorship so important?
00:22:25 Check out the Gain, Go, Grow Manual for training intermediate to advanced players!
00:23:15 The beginnings of A Coach’s Guide to Strength Development blog series.
00:33:45 The fundamentals of physiology + adaptation for strength coaches.
00:38:50 Breaking down the three step process to focusing on what matters.
00:45:30 How have you built and managed your coaching culture?
00:53:50 The significance of learning to receive feedback as a coach.
00:59:05 What are the assumptions of periodization?
01:03:50 What are the biggest issues with the recent technology boom?
01:06:40 The future of the book + where to learn more.
What does it take to build a sports performance department out of bare-bones? Our guest this week is Coach Doug Davidson. Doug is the Associate Director of Sports Performance and Strength & Conditioning Coach of the Vegas Golden Knights, being with the organization since the team’s inaugural season in 2017-2018. We will explore the foundational work + early years of slowly building up a sports performance department, starting from the ground level. You’ll get a closer look at the organization’s decision making process for technology, integration, and beyond, all from a sports performance lens. We also discuss Doug’s background and mentors, what his time in the AHL taught him + how it affected his tenure in the NHL, and his cooperative approach to communication with his veteran athletes. Join in as we break down everything from the VGK performance culture to the practice versus post-game mindset and more!
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Major lessons from time in the American Hockey League, and how that information transitioned to the National Hockey League.
- The important elements of successful communication, cooperation, and decision-making.
- The early days of building a sports performance department for a new expansion team.
HIGHLIGHTS
00:00 Welcome to the podcast, Doug Davidson, the Associate Director of Sports Performance and Strength & Conditioning Coach of the Vegas Golden Knights!
01:45 What are your current responsibilities with the Vegas Golden Knights?
04:35 How did the experiences with your mentors shape you as a coach?
09:50 Major lessons from the American League + transitions into the National League.
15:40 The important elements of successful communication between athletes & coaches.
18:50 What are the foundations of building a sports performance department from ground level?
23:35 Check out the High Performance Hockey Masterclass!
24:55 How were additional hires integrated in the early years?
27:15 Breaking down the VGK performance model and culture.
30:40 How do your relationships bleed into decision making?
32:40 The three keys behind choosing technology.
36:35 How do you approach practice days versus post-games?
39:35 Balancing coaching and cooperation with veteran players.
42:10 What are the current gaps in holistic care from a performance standpoint?
47:05 What is coming up next for you?
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Differences between North America and the KHL in terms of culture, game play, structure, performance, and schedule.
- The current strength & conditioning scene in Europe compared to North America.
- Advice for young strength coaches considering going abroad.
- The importance of communication, consistency, and simplicity as a coach.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Ever wondered what high performance hockey looks like across the pond? Today, we are joined by Brandon Bovee, the Strength & Conditioning Coach for Ak Bars Kazan in the KHL. Brandon is a 12 year strength & conditioning veteran who has coached all over Russia, from Moscow to the far east in Vladivostok. We have a fascinating conversation uncovering his unique journey from North America to the Eastern bloc + his experiences and formative years abroad. We’ll break down the key differences between North American leagues and the KHL, from culture, game play, structure, performance, and more. Brandon also shares his advice for coaches considering Europe, the importance of building trust in communication, and how he simplifies the process by filtering out the noise. Tune in to broaden your view of the high performance world on a whole new level!
00:00 Introducing a 12 year KHL veteran and the Strength & Conditioning Coach for Ak Bars Kazan, Brandon Bovee!
01:35 How did you get from North America to the KHL?
08:05 Formative first years + building buy-in in a foreign country.
10:20 The North American high performance model versus the KHL high performance model.
13:50 Discover the key to training intermediate and advanced players with the Gain, Go, Grow Manual!
14:40 Breaking down KHL legacy, playing style, and schedule.
18:40 What does a typical week of a physical preparation coach look like?
20:15 Comparing the strength & conditioning scene + off season programs in the KHL.
22:05 Who have stood out as your mentors and peers while in Europe?
26:00 What advice would you give a young strength coach considering Europe?
30:00 What does the future hold for you?
32:15 How to focus on consistency and simplicity above the noise.
37:00 Asking ‘why’ to find the best path forward.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Textbook skating mechanics and skating efficiency.
- The difference between coaching young athletes versus elite level professionals.
- Biomechanics and anatomical landmarks for idealized, efficient skating.
- The most common equipment and modifications.
Resources + Links:
Follow Luke on Instagram | @chilcottskating
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What are the most common skating habits high performance hockey players share? Joining the podcast today is Luke Chilcott, the Dallas Stars skating coach. Luke is in his 7th season working as a skating coach in the NHL, helping develop a deeper knowledge of edgework and efficiency through correct technique, and assisting players in analyzing beneficial equipment as it relates to on ice performance. Our conversation will delve into Luke’s skating philosophy he has fostered working with both younger players and professional level athletes. We’ll explore optimized skating efficiency, biomechanics and anatomical landmarks, common skating habits and modifications, and more. As we go, Luke shares his framework for setting up his skaters for success, including beneficial equipment, on ice & off ice interventions, and return to play. Tune in to discover all that goes into efficient skating from the ground up!
00:00 Let’s talk skating, biomechanics, equipment and more with Dallas Stars skating coach, Luke Chilcott!
01:30 What was your background going from competitive skater to trainer?
04:35 Role and responsibilities as the Dallas Stars skating coach.
07:35 What is your skating philosophy?
10:20 Social media bells & whistles versus in game/on ice patterns.
13:00 Defining textbook skating efficiency + anatomical landmarks to focus on.
17:40 What are common skating habits and mistakes you’ve noticed?
21:30 The pros and cons of block practice for youth athletes.
24:20 Check out the Gain, Go, Grow Manual for intermediate to advanced athletes!
25:10 What is the ideal build for skating, from a biomechanical standpoint?
29:50 How to tangibly make a difference in an athlete’s stride at the elite level.
34:10 Which on ice and off ice interventions would you implement for ankle mobility?
38:30 Equipment commonalities + modifications between pro level players.
44:35 What is the relation between hollows and return to play?
50:00 Where does video fit into your coaching philosophy?
54:05 Favorable prerequisites for warming up a pro level skater.
58:50 What’s coming up next for you?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- An in-depth exploration of the five phases of the return to sport clearance continuum.
- How to become a Swiss Army knife in the professional sports world.
- The current state of comprehensive athlete care + return to play.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
How can you approach the return to sport clearance like a pro? Joining us today is Dr. Pete Draovitch, Athletic Performance Specialist and Associate Athletic Trainer of the Jacksonville Jaguars. His current role assists the medical staff and strength & conditioning staff to work closely with injured players in the rehabilitation programs. With his diverse background in professional sports, including golf, ice hockey, and football, Dr. Pete will teach us how to become a Swiss Army knife within the high performance sphere. We’ll also be deep diving into a 2022 article of his in order to break down the five phases of the return to sport clearance continuum, including debunking misconceptions and providing useful modalities to implement for return to play. Join us for a thorough and interesting conversation on the current state of comprehensive athlete care!
01:40 What was your background with the Rangers and what are your current duties in the NFL?
05:20 Becoming the Swiss Army knife of professional sports.
09:20 What first principles do you go by?
14:40 What tools + modalities do you utilize during the repair phase?
17:50 The High Performance Hockey Masterclass ad.
18:40 What goes into the rehab + recovery phase?
23:45 Why is the reconditioning phase the most misunderstood?
29:05 How to get baseline tests of the season + the most important metric for return to play.
33:20 Return to performance versus return to play.
37:45 Where is the pendulum swinging regarding comprehensive athlete care?
41:20 Expert advice for young practitioners.
42:55 How do you want to be remembered?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Measurement error and building conceptual models in applied settings.
- How to collect, analyze, and compute better information from both a sports science and a strength & conditioning perspective.
- The issue with reliability + validity in tests.
- The fundamentals of assessing and calculating errors.
Resources + Links:
Measurement in Medicine by Henrica C. W. W. de Vet
Probably Overthinking It by Allen B. Downey
Analyzing Baseball Data with R by Jim Albert and Benjamin S. Baumer
Calling Bullshit by Carl T. Bergstrom and Jevin D. West
Against the Gods by Peter L. Bernstein
The Lady Tasting Tea by David Salsburg
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Is it possible to have data that is both reliable and valid? Today, we have an informative podcast all about measurement with special guests, Dr. Patrick Ward and Dr. Scot Morrison. Dr. Patrick Ward is the Director of Research and Analysis at the Seattle Seahawks and a Statistics Professor at Lehman College, with a PhD in Sport and Exercise Science. Dr. Scot Morrison is currently working as a Senior Sports Scientist in MLB and boasts a diverse career in sports medicine.
Our conversation focuses on measurement, error, and conceptual models in an applied real world setting. We’ll hear their expert answers to several important questions from a sports science lens: What are the logical fallacies regarding reliability & validity in tests? How can we successfully collect & analyze better information? What are the basic fundamentals we need to know? Join us for an incredible educational talk centered around measurement in high performance sports!
0:00:00 Introducing Dr. Patrick Ward and Dr. Scot Morrison, here to discuss everything related to measurement!
0:03:40 Unpacking bad data, measurement errors, and skewed models.
0:08:35 What kind of validity should we be looking for in data?
0:14:45 How to measure external load on a case by case basis.
0:18:15 The issue of measurement reliability.
0:24:25 How can we successfully compute credible probability through error?
0:28:45 Assessing metric errors from a strength & conditioning perspective.
0:34:00 Steps for operationalizing and applying data models throughout a season.
0:39:25 What are the fundamentals of calculating error & noise?
0:42:10 The High Performance Hockey Masterclass ad.
0:43:30 Identifying the difference between testing errors.
0:47:05 Which measurements have you thrown out due to noise?
0:53:00 The importance of conceptual framework in decision making.
1:00:55 What can we learn from conceptual framework?
1:03:30 How do you build models from a sports science lens?
1:08:10 Navigating the truth & lies of models in applied settings.
1:13:40 Knowing what you know now, what advice & resources would you give aspiring performance coaches?
In this episode I have an incredible conversation with Sunaya Sapurji about youth hockey development models around the world. Sunaya is a senior editor at The Athletic who has covered hockey for many years and written insightful pieces comparing different countries' approaches. We discussed the similarities and differences between programs in North America and Europe. Some of the main takeaways from our discussion included the challenges of cost and participation rates, as well as the importance of coaching education to ensure development frameworks are properly implemented.
01:15 Hockey development models in the US and Canada.
08:45 Hockey development and retention strategies for youth growing up in the sport.
11:15 What challenges is the sport of ice hockey facing with cost across the globe?
18:30 Hockey development in Scandinavia.
26:45 What are the differences between the club model in places like Denmark vs the free market you see in the US?
32:30 Hockey coaching, player development, and retention today.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The importance of generalist knowledge in sports medicine.
- Periodization of treatment for optimal athlete performance.
- How Dr. Jeff Cubos creates a collaborative high performance culture.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Jeff Cubos. Dr. Cubos is a consulting chiropractor for the Edmonton Oilers and has over 20 years of experience working with athletes at all levels. We had a great discussion about the importance of being a generalist in sports medicine and understanding principles from different fields. Jeff also shared insights into his daily role with the Oilers, from morning meetings to game day preparations. Tune in to hear us cover the emphasis on regular assessments for asymptomatic players to ensure optimal performance and prevent potential issues down the road.
01:30 Curiosity, communication, and interdisciplinary connections.
04:15 What is your treatment philosophy and information you consider for assessments in sports medicine?
13:00 Athlete care and focusing on player driven decision making.
19:15 Periodization and communication in sports performance.
25:30 How do you approach hockey player development and high performance culture?
35:00 Athlete monitoring and injury management in hockey.
40:45 Are there any objective measures from the medical staff that you look at and measure?
48:00 Teaching curiosity and self-directed learning.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
How to build trust with players through open communication
Managing training loads to prevent overtraining during season
Using objective metrics and testing for return to play decisions
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
I'm here with Mike Donohue, the head strength coach of the Dallas Stars, and we had a great discussion about building a performance program at the NHL level. Mike shared his experiences in the AHL and how that prepared him for the challenges of the NHL. We talked about the importance of building trust with players, monitoring training loads, and using objective data to guide return to play. It was fascinating to hear Mike's perspective on balancing theory with practical application in professional sports. Whether you're a coach or player, I think you'll find a lot of valuable insights on building an effective long-term development program.
01:30 Building a strength conditioning program for a professional hockey team.
05:45 Building trust and providing valuable insights as a strength and conditioning coach.
09:15 Impact of first gig in American Hockey League.
13:15 Coaching in the NHL and AHL.
19:45 Managing stress and recovery in professional ice hockey players.
23:15 Training loads and recovery for professional hockey players.
27:00 Athlete autonomy in training programs.
32:15 Using data and metrics in sports training.
37:00 Using data to guide athlete development in hockey.
43:45 Hockey player care and the gap between theory and practice.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Mental toughness is task specific and developed through self-awareness
Leadership starts from the top but is a bottom-up process of trust and humility
The cost of coaching is making tough decisions while staying true to your values
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Today we're joined by two world renowned athletes. Assistant Coach University of Nebraska men's freestyle wrestling team, Terrell dialogue nev, and the head coach of the Pitt Panthers wrestling team. Keith Gavin. We dive into many important topics in wrestling like mental toughness, leadership, and building a culture of trust. Both of these guys are legends in the sport and they gave such great insights from their experiences as world-class athletes and now as coaches. Tune in to hear ways they develop the whole athlete and help their wrestlers become the best versions of themselves.
02:30 Mental toughness in wrestling, common misconceptions, and skill development.
08:15 Athlete development and positivity in wrestling.
12:15 Mental toughness in sports with a Hall of Fame coach and wrestler.
23:00 How do you teach mental preparation for athletes?
29:30 Coaching wrestling, leadership, and ego.
35:45 Youth sports development and coaching strategies.
41:15 Leadership costs in sports, including ego and credit.
46:15 How do you nurture greatness and create legendary athletes?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Highlights, lessons, and reflections on top episodes of 2023.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
I’ve been honored to have some incredible conversations on the podcast in 2023. For this episode, I’m highlighting some of the most impactful guests and lessons from the past year. Discussing topics ranging from long term athletic development to data analytics in sports, I really enjoyed gaining different perspectives on how to improve the game of hockey. Speaking with experts like Jim Kielbaso, Fergus Connolly, and Dr. Mal McHugh challenged my thinking and will help me better serve the hockey community. I'm also grateful for the chance to sit down with Stanley Cup champions like John Stevens to learn about the intangibles that help teams succeed at the highest level. Overall, interviewing so many great minds in the sport has been an invaluable learning experience, and I look forward to continuing these important discussions in the new year.
02:15 Long-term athletic development in hockey.
06:30 Balancing skill development and fun in youth hockey.
12:00 Coaching, mentorship, and prediction in hockey.
18:00 Hockey training and winning intangibles with a 3-time Stanley Cup champ.
22:15 Hockey skills development and testing methods.
28:00 Measuring performance and understanding data.
33:45 Hockey analytics and performance with industry experts.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Reframing LTAD from a coach’s perspective.
The problems with the LTAD model.
Possible solutions & fixes for future athletic development.
Resources + Links:
Check out Jim’s article -
Rethinking Long Term Athlete Development
Ultimate Speed & Agility by Jim Kielbaso
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What happens when we coach outside of models? Today’s featured guest is Jim Kielbaso, the President and CEO of the International Youth Conditioning Association! Jim is the owner of one of the most successful sports performance training centers in the country, Impact Sports Performance, and has trained thousands of athletes during his career. We’ll have a fantastic conversation as we break down the long term athletic development model from the lens of a coach in an applied setting. Jim provides a fresh take on LTAD and brings up the problems that come with it. In a perfect world, how could we fix these issues? We’ll talk about everything from technical skills, player retention, training windows, and more to learn what coaches can do in our imperfect world to find possible solutions for the future of athletic development. If you’re a coach or a parent of young athletes, this is one discussion you don’t want to ignore. Join us in rethinking how we approach LTAD and its impact on high performance sports!
02:30 What is your article about and why did you write it?
04:40 What are the three stages of the model?
09:20 Defining ‘framework’ versus ‘model’.
11:45 From a coach’s perspective, what are the big problems with the model?
14:05 The underlying pressure of LTAD on coaches & parents.
19:35 What are your thoughts on assumptions around training windows?
25:50 Why do we need more coaches, not models?
30:40 The significance of training technical skills.
34:50 How do people make up a sport?
39:10 Fixing the model through education & coaching.
41:50 How has the off season changed for young athletes?
45:40 Do we abandon the model?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Where the education process for young performance coaches is right now.
Theory versus application touch points.
Jumping training from a physiological perspective.
Coaching adaptation in different training ages.
Resources + Links:
Connect with Carmen on Instagram | @coachbott
Learn more at https://www.coachbott.com/
Check out Coach Carmen’s ACL Rehab Course: https://www.coachbott.com/acl-rehab-course
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
If you think you understand performance, think again! I’m excited to share my conversation with Professor of Kinesiology at Simon Fraser University, Carmen Bott. Carmen holds a Masters in Exercise Science and is a certified strength & conditioning specialist and a practicing kinesiologist. As a physical performance coach with 20+ years of experience, she has guided athletes at varying physical levels and training ages towards adaptation and rehabilitation.
Our discussion today will cover everything from teaching critical thinking skills, collaboration between professionals, and deconstructing the performance model. We’ll start with taking a lens to the education process for young performance coaches before moving onto theory versus application, physiology & jump training, the coaching element of practice and beyond. We’ll also learn more about the new resources Carmen has created, including her ebook, Understanding Performance and Adaptation, as well her ACL rehab course and its inner modules. Young coaches, veteran coaches, athletes, and other performance professionals will all be able to gain important takeaways from this education & coaching expert!
0:00:00 Here to break down physiology, performance, and adaptation is Coach Carmen Bott, Professor of Kinesiology and a physical performance coach with over 20 years of experience!
0:02:40 What do you teach in your classes?
0:05:25 Where is the education process for young performance coaches?
0:10:40 Should critical thinking be taught in schools?
0:15:45 Why do more case studies need to be shared among professionals?
0:22:05 The pros of being skeptical.
0:25:25 Should we start with adaptation before exercise?
0:27:40 Jump training from a physiology standpoint.
0:31:00 How is peripheral adaptation evolving in athletes?
0:33:50 Chasing adaptation in different age groups.
0:38:55 How do you approach drills for different training ages?
0:43:10 Volume control in training.
0:46:00 Why did you create your ACL course and what does it encompass?
0:52:45 Breaking down the course modules.
0:59:20 Where does technology fit into your return to play end stage?
1:04:40 What questions does technology leave us with?
1:06:45 What do we gain when we look at the bigger picture?
1:08:55 Is it possible to profile performance?
1:13:25 The assumptions of the performance model.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Coaching today’s players: Technology, culture, and communication.
The ingredients of a successful professional team.
The ultimate game day prep in the American Hockey League.
Advice for aspiring coaches, hockey parents, and young players.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What are the qualities of a championship team? In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with a true trailblazer in his zone of genius, Trent Vogelhuber. Trent is a man of many firsts, being the first Columbus native to play Division I college hockey at Miami of Ohio, the first Columbus native to be drafted in the NHL, and the first Columbus native to coach professional hockey. With a professional playing career of 267 games in the American Hockey League, Trent now serves as the Head Coach for the Cleveland Monsters. We’ll have an insightful discussion looking back at his playing career, his early mentors, and the transition from player to coach. Then, we move onto the landscape of coaching today and everything you need to know about communication and culture in a professional setting. Lastly, we’ll get to hear Trent’s advice for new coaches, hockey parents, and young athletes from a head coach’s perspective. From game day prep to the use of technology in strength & conditioning, Trent will share his thoughts on successful sports performance. Whether you’re an aspiring coach or a young player, you’ll be able to take away the important tangibles to bloom where you’re planted right now!
00:00 Meet the man of many firsts, Trent Vogelhuber, the current Head Coach of the Cleveland Monsters!
02:20 What does being an Ohio native mean to you?
04:45 What led you into coaching in the AHL?
07:30 How was the transition from player to coach?
09:05 Who were your mentors and what qualities did you admire in them?
13:15 The qualities of a championship team.
16:55 Where does culture come from?
18:55 How has the game changed and how has this affected the coaching side?
22:35 How do you deliver difficult messages to your players?
26:00 Your touch point AHL game day prep.
29:40 Does your structure change based on your opponent?
31:15 What is the significance of strength & conditioning on the ice?
34:40 What are the most important qualities you look for in a strength coach?
38:15 Where does technology fit in the AHL level?
40:55 How do you currently use your strength & conditioning coach?
44:15 Advice for aspiring coaches.
46:10 What is your advice for hockey parents and young players?
50:30 How do you want to be remembered?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Coaching then versus now: Old school coaching techniques and lost art forms.
What young coaches need to succeed long term.
Where the future of coaching is heading.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What are the pros and cons of modern day coaching? We’re continuing onto Part 2 of our in depth discussion with legends in the field, Buddy Morris, Michael Boyle, Dan Pfaff, and Fergus Connolly! In this part, we’ll be taking a closer look at the pendulum swing of modern day coaching for high performance sports. From the dying arts of old school coaching techniques to the cons coming from the recent rise in technology, our four guests weigh in on what it means to be a coach then versus now. They’ll share seasoned lessons they’ve experienced that brought them to where they are today, including stories of who they learned from and how they got into the room. Our conversation will also touch on the importance of mentorship, advice for career success, how to prepare your skill set for the future, and even more. If you’re a young coach, don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the original godfathers of sports performance!
01:00 What is one assumption you have about training that greater access to data would allow you to test?
04:50 Exploring the recent rise of overreliance on data technology.
11:10 What were the advantages of not having technology or social media?
17:40 The lost art of visitation.
23:00 What do we gain when we watch and learn from other coaches?
27:35 What is the most common question younger coaches ask you, and what do you wish they would ask instead?
34:15 How can young coaches prepare themselves for the future?
40:00 What is your advice for young coaches right now?
44:10 How do you want to be remembered after your coaching days?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
How these legends came to be.
The life lessons and mistakes from veterans in the field.
An examination of the personal and professional side of sports performance.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What do you get when you bring four legendary sports performance professionals together? An equally legendary podcast! This week, we’re bringing you an incredible two part series where we sit down with my dearest mentors, the godfathers of sports performance, Michael Boyle, Dan Pfaff, Buddy Morris, and Fergus Connolly. As experts and veterans in their individual fields, they each bring insightful and valuable knowledge & experiences to today’s episode as we break down who they are and what got them here. Who did they learn the most from? How did they get through the doubt? What did the darkest moments of their careers look like? We’ll talk about the lessons and mistakes from their personal and professional lives that shaped them into who they are now and where they want to go from here. Drop in for an extensive deep dive into life, performance, and everything in between!
00:00 Join the table with living legends Michael Boyle, Dan Pfaff, Buddy Morris, and Fergus Connolly to uncover the life lessons behind sports performance!
05:00 How did you end up where you are now?
10:20 Who were the mentors that affected you the most and what lessons from them resonated with you?
19:15 What is the one word you can’t stand to hear?
21:10 Which athlete taught you the most?
26:05 What was one of the biggest mistakes you made, personally or professionally?
34:50 When did you doubt yourself the most?
43:40 Are we relying on technology too much?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Challenges of cash-based physical therapy businesses.
- Measuring healing and function in end-stage rehab.
- Assessing progress in physical therapy after surgery.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Today we're joined by the founders of Resilient Performance Systems, Dr. Doug Kechijian, Dr. Trevor Rappa and Dr. Greg Spats. Resilient Performance Systems seeks to systematically explore the continuum between acute rehab and athletic performance. Their clientele include athletes and operators from MLB, the NBA, the NFL, professional mixed martial artists, X Games, and Olympians, just to name a few. RPS also advises organizations about medical and performance staffing, program development, and injury risk mitigation strategies. It's a fantastic episode. Welcome to the podcast!
05:46 - Everyone’s backgrounds in physical therapy and strength conditioning.
09:12 - State of the healthcare industry and professional certifications.
11:44 - Certification requirements in healthcare.
14:47 - Challenges of cash-based physical therapy businesses.
21:30 - Sports injury rehab and prevention strategies.
24:47 - Passing the baton in sports rehabilitation.
28:39 - Athlete rehabilitation and communication between providers.
33:16 - Education gaps in physical therapy and strength conditioning.
36:22 - Sports rehabilitation and training strategies.
39:40 - Measuring healing and function in end-stage rehab.
45:58 - Injury rehabilitation and sports preparation.
49:21 - Rehabilitating a college football player post-injury.
53:36 - Rehabilitation strategies for FAI surgery.
56:48 - Assessing progress in physical therapy after surgery.
1:00:45 - Athlete assessment and training progression.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Analyzing hockey player data for performance and recovery insights
The gaps in sports science and its application today.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Today we're joined by Dr. Mal McHugh and Reg Grant! Mal is the Director of Research at the Nicholas Institute of Sports Medicine and Athletic Trauma at Lenox Hill Hospital, which is part of the Northwell Health System. Mal is also the Sports Performance Consultant for the National Hockey League. Reg is the Director of Human Performance at Holy Name Medical Center in Teaneck, New Jersey, a former President of the Strength and Conditioning Association of Professional Hockey, and for 17 years served as the Head Strength Conditioning Coach of the New York Rangers, which specializes in leading interdisciplinary health, wellness and athletic performance teams. In this episode, we talk about decades of testing from the Batman and Robin of testing and high performance hockey, Reg on the floor collecting the data and Mal analyzing the data behind the scenes. We also speak about external load and ice hockey, and a research article yet to be published by Mal titled ‘Accelerometer based measurement of physiological and physical intensity in male ice hockey players: An algorithm for quantifying accelerometry data and ice hockey, identifying a reliable g-force profile’. Interesting article, interesting conversation, interesting talk.
00:00:00 Welcome back to the show, Dr. Mal McHugh and Reg Grant!
00:02:10 How, where, and with whom did you evolve your data stream?
00:05:10 How did you two start working together?
00:07:50 What were the biggest mistakes you learned from?
00:11:40 What were your aha moments?
00:14:05 Giving context to information to get results.
00:17:45 What are the limitations of measurements?
00:21:00 How did your technology evolve?
00:27:40 What were the biggest insights you made?
00:32:25 What targeted interventions did your data allow you to make?
00:35:00 How Mal analyzes athlete data, athletic performance, and injury risk.
00:38:50 Using accelerometry to measure G-force in ice hockey players.
00:41:40 Analyzing hockey player data for performance and recovery insights.
00:46:55 Is there an ideal G-force profile?
00:49:25 Why do you measure G-force?
00:55:45 What gaps are you seeing in sports science and its application?
01:02:00 Best practices for applying sports science in training environments.
01:06:30 When hiring a sports performance director how do you objectify the position?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
KPIs to measure athletic performance and different training methods.
Why data can only take you so far as a strength and conditioning coach.
The current landscape of strength and conditioning in college hockey.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
In this episode, we're joined by Assistant Director of Olympic strength and conditioning at the University of Wisconsin, Paul Valukas. Paul joined the Wisconsin Olympic strength and conditioning staff in 2021 as an assistant strength and conditioning coach, and currently oversees the Badgers women's hockey program. Paul joined the Badgers after most recently serving as the head strength and conditioning coach in the Ontario reign of the American Hockey League. Working with the LA Kings strength and conditioning staff, Paul created and implemented the reins off a strength and conditioning programming return to play protocols and rehab programs for injured players. We talk about a day in the life of Wisconsin Badgers strength conditioning staff specifically for ice hockey KPIs he uses for his programming, how he buckets, his programs and the current landscape of Strength and Conditioning for college hockey.
04:15 Coaching hockey with a focus on personalized training and leadership.
11:00 Training and retaining interns in sports performance.
16:15 What does the team look like for sports performance training for women's hockey at Wisconsin?
27:00 Measuring athletic performance and training methods.
31:00 Why does data analysis in sports performance only take you so far?
36:15 Categorizing athletes based on performance metrics.
40:45 Training programs for athletes based on movement and intensity.
46:30 An inside look at college hockey coaching challenges and bonuses.
54:00 The value of education in strength conditioning.
57:30 How do you want to be remembered as a coach?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Pulling back the curtain on high performance sports.
Biomechanics and movement algorithms in the field of strength & conditioning.
Training adaptation, low versus high ground sports, and rethinking big patterns.
Resources + Links:
Connect with Pat on Instagram | @dr.patdavidson
Get your copy of A Coach’s Guide to Optimizing Movement by Pat Davidson |https://rpstrength.com/coachs-guide-to-optimizing-movement
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What does the Wizard of Oz, McDonald’s, and high performance sports have in common? Today, we’re pulling back the curtain to find out what really makes something successful with Dr. Pat Davidson. Dr. Pat is an independent trainer, consultant, author, and lecturer in NYC who employs critical thinking skills and rationale in all his systems. In this podcast, we’ll be discussing the reality of training programs to see what makes them tick and the best ways to utilize them. We also explore biomechanics and movement algorithms in the field of strength & conditioning, and Pat’s operational approach to training three different classifications. This episode will have you rethinking the way you view training and high performance athletes going forward. Compete at the highest level by seeing through the smoke and mirrors!
0:00:00 Step into the world of biomechanics and algorithms alongside Dr. Pat Davidson!
0:01:20 Where did your critical thinking come from and why is it important to have?
0:07:10 The Wizard of Oz post.
0:09:35 What compelled you to write it?
0:16:45 Are we pulling back the curtain?
0:21:45 What does it take to be successful?
0:25:25 Do we overcomplicate things?
0:29:45 How can we make better selections?
0:35:45 Get your copy of the Gain, Go, Grow manual.
0:36:35 Where do you start with grounding?
0:40:30 What matters most in low ground sports?
0:43:05 Training adaptations.
0:47:10 Who have been your mentors in the field of biomechanics?
0:51:15 What is your model for rethinking big patterns?
0:54:10 What are your three classifications?
0:57:15 What is your operational approach to training?
1:01:55 Do you utilize breakwork?
1:05:25 Where can people find your work?
1:07:15 How did your mass program come about?
1:15:00 How do you want to be remembered?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
The tangible intangibles of winning teams.
Team culture: Where it comes from and how to build it.
Player insights and communication from a new generation of athletes.
Advice for young athletes and long term athletic development.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What does it take to coach a winning team? In this episode, we’re uncovering the tangible intangibles of winning teams with the assistant coach for the Vegas Golden Knights, John Stevens. John is a 3 time Stanley Cup champion, once recently with the Vegas Golden Knights from 2022-2023 and twice with the LA Kings in 2012 and 2014. He is entering this 26th season of professional coaching and his 18th season in the NHL. Today, we’ll be picking his brain to discuss his secret to success over the years. What was it like winning a Stanley Cup not once, but thrice? Who were his mentors and how does he still continue to learn today? What is his advice for setting up young players for long term athletic development? From building culture to understanding player perspectives, our conversation will dive into the qualities that make up a winning team of high performers. Join us in the coaching corner to get a seasoned perspective on the game of hockey!
00:00:00 Introducing the assistant coach for the Vegas Golden Knights, John Stevens!
00:02:17 How does it feel to win a Stanley Cup?
00:05:57 How did you spend your day with the Cup?
00:08:27 What are the tangible intangibles of winning teams?
00:11:52 Who were your mentors as a young coach?
00:16:07 How do you keep learning as a coach?
00:19:17 What is your staple game checklist?
00:23:42 High Performance Hockey Masterclass ad break.
00:25:02 How are players bringing different perspectives to the conversation?
00:28:22 Where does culture come from?
00:31:42 How has communication changed?
00:37:32 The challenge of filtering out the noise.
00:42:57 What are the qualities of a good sports performance practitioner?
00:47:02 Informed versus persuasion.
00:51:02 What is your advice for young athletes?
00:55:47 What do you work on with your sons during the summers?
01:02:17 What can you learn from doing the work?
01:04:47 How do you want to be remembered?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
The utility of Catapult technology within various environments and demographics.
Everything you need to know about external player load.
Anchors points and heuristics for return to play clearance.
The data behind decision making processes during a regular season.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Let’s break down all things external load! Today, we’re joined by Patrick Love, Adam Douglas, Stephane Gervais, and Kevin Ricks for a roundtable to discuss the use of Catapult technology. Our conversation will dive into the utility Catapult provides for the various environments in which they work. We’ll explore how it relates to different demographics, data tracking for key decision making, anchor points for return to play clearance, and even more. As we go, we’ll uncover how this technology works and its true significance to team sports around the globe. If you’ve ever questioned how Catapult technology performs in the realm of hockey, look no further than this episode for your answers. Drop into the roundtable for an insightful look into the technology that drives the high performance sphere to new levels!
Meet the Guests:
Patrick Love is an Applied Sports Scientist at Catapult Sports. He currently supports 20 NHL, 16 AHL, and 16 NCAA Ice Hockey teams that use Catapult's wearable technology. Prior to working at Catapult, the Plano, Texas, native was the S&C Coach OKC Barons (’14-’15), Bakersfield Condors (’15-’19), and Assistant S&C Coach with the Edmonton Oilers (‘19-‘21).
Adam Douglas is the Sports Science and Performance Director for the Montreal Canadiens. Prior to joining the Canadiens, Adam Douglas served as the Manager, Sports Performance for Hockey Canada for over 10 years, working with both the Men’s and Women’s High Performance Teams. Alongside his work with Hockey Canada, Douglas also served as an Applied Sport Scientist with the Catapult Sports. He has a PhD from York University where he investigated the applied use of wearable technology in elite female ice hockey.
Stephane Gervais is the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Montreal Canadiens’ AHL farm team the Laval Rocket. Originally from Windsor, ON, he played 4 years of Varsity hockey at the University of British Columbia, before embarking on his pro hockey career in Europe, playing 10 professional seasons while simultaneously serving as the Pro/U20 team’s S&C coach before retiring from playing in 2017 and moving into that role full time. Later working with the French Ice Hockey Federation as the Strength and Conditioning Coordinator and Team France U20 National team.
Kevin Ricks is an Associate Athletic Trainer at Notre Dame, working with the Irish Hockey team and Men’s Tennis team while assisting with football. Ricks also has worked with the Irish men’s and women’s fencing team, men’s and women’s track and field, women’s swimming and diving, women’s soccer and women’s rowing teams in his time at Notre Dame. Ricks first came to Notre Dame in 2001.
0:00:00 Join the Catapult roundtable alongside featured guests Patrick Love, Adam Douglas, Stephane Gervais, and Kevin Ricks to learn all things external load!
0:01:30 What does Catapult technology do?
0:03:20 What does the GPS technology measure and what is its significance in team sports?
0:08:05 Player load volume intensity measurements.
0:11:45 What intensity metrics do you track?
0:13:20 What asymmetry profiles do you look at?
0:14:40 What problem were you trying to solve by bringing in the technology?
0:20:25 How does information & decision making drive planning in a regular season?
0:27:55 What was the amount of data for a seven day average?
0:29:40 Train like a high performing athlete with The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual!
0:30:30 How does the American hockey league level differ?
0:34:05 What are the anchor points for return to play metrics?
0:37:20 How does volume, intensity, and asymmetry change during the return to play process?
0:40:35 What are your rules & heuristics for clearing an athlete?
0:42:20 How do you slowly progress player load?
0:48:15 What are the aha moments you had from this technology?
0:50:50 What perspective did Catapult give to coaches and athletes?
0:55:15 What did this data teach you during playoffs?
0:57:35 How can you protect your players?
1:00:05 What do you include in your reports and why?
1:08:20 What technology is coming out next?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
The aha moments of testing hip asymmetry in athletes.
The drawbacks of adductor squeeze testing.
How to conduct research that makes a difference.
Resources + Links:
Learn more about Dr. McHugh’s research | https://nismat.org/about/nismat-team/research-team/malachy-mchugh-phd/
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What are the unintentional drawbacks of the tests we run? Today, we’ll have an educational conversion all about research, statistics, and conducting tests for high performance athletes with our special guest, Dr. Mal McHugh! Dr. McHugh received his PhD in exercise physiology in 1999 from the University of Wales, Bangor before he began his work as Director of Research at the Nicholas Institute of Sports & Medicine and Athletic Trauma. In his decades long experience, he has led a multidisciplinary team including orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, exercise physiologists, nutritionists, biomechanists, medical engineers, and athletic trainers.
In this episode, we’ll explore his research and approach to testing, measurements, and statistics. We will dive deep into testing hip asymmetry, most notably the drawbacks of adductor squeeze tests. As we go, I’ll share the aha moments that changed my perspective on how we view these tests and the unintended consequences of them. Whether you’re a sports scientist, coach, or athlete, you’ll be able to discover something new from the tests you run. This is how we can conduct research that makes a difference!
0:00:00 Introducing the Director of Research at the Nicholas Institute of Sports & Medicine and Athletic Trauma, Dr. Mal McHugh!
0:02:20 What does your role as Director of Research entail?
0:04:35 How do you build a research team?
0:08:05 How did you get involved with testing NHL combines?
0:10:25 Data cleaning & organization.
0:14:55 What is your approach to stats?
0:16:00 What did you discover from your study testing hip strength?
0:21:20 Unpacking the adduction to abduction ratio.
0:24:40 Explore the science & practice behind the sport of ice hockey from The High Performance Hockey Masterclass!
0:25:55 What was my aha moment when it came to adductor squeeze tests?
0:28:10 What are the drawbacks of squeeze tests?
0:31:15 How do you test abduction strength?
0:36:05 How do you use a handheld dynamometer?
0:38:35 How can beginners educate themselves on handheld testers?
0:41:30 Why do you recommend using Newton meters?
0:44:05 What is your rule of thumb for determining size of difference?
0:48:00 The difficulties of measuring human models.
0:52:00 How do you determine effect size?
0:53:30 What do you like to look for when you read research?
0:57:05 Why do you avoid Twitter?
1:00:15 What are you working on now?
1:03:15 What do you want your legacy to be remembered as?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
The history behind the All Blacks principles and traditions.
Why building a culture of communication and connection is key for any team.
The differences and similarities between Canadian hockey and New Zealand rugby.
Resources + Links:
Check out Travis on Google Scholar | Daniel Travis McMaster
Legacy by James Kerr
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
How do you build a lasting cultural legacy? Today’s guest is the head strength & conditioning coach for the All Blacks Sevens, Travis McMaster! Dr. Daniel Travis McMaster holds a Master’s Degree in Sport and Exercise Science and PhD in Strength and Conditioning. His journey as a student, athlete, educator, researcher, writer, coach, mentor, consultant, and performance director have provided him with opportunities to travel the world and experience a diversity of cultures. Over the past 15 years, he has had the privilege to work as a sports scientist, strength and conditioning coach, performance consultant and research fellow for successful Professional, National and Olympic sporting organizations and innovative research institutions. These experiences have allowed him to connect with and learn from inspirational athletes and world leading coaches, scientists, and educators.
Together, we’ll explore the world of high performance rugby from an S&C perspective. We’ll dive into the rich history and traditions behind the All Blacks to uncover how they’ve built a culture that puts communication first. Then, we take a look into comparing & contrasting Canadian hockey with New Zealand rugby. As we go, Travis shares his processes as head S&C coach, as well as his rules for becoming an athlete. Learn how you can curate a sustainable high performance model from here to the other side of the globe!
00:00 Discover how to build a culture the All Blacks way with strength & conditioning coach and author, Travis McMaster!
01:25 What are your responsibilities with the All Blacks?
05:35 What led you to rugby?
08:30 Who were your mentors and what lessons did you learn from them?
13:20 Where do the 15 All Blacks principles come from?
16:15 What are the traditions of the All Blacks?
19:25 Join the High Performance Hockey Masterclass.
20:45 Comparing and contrasting Canadian hockey with New Zealand rugby.
23:45 What does the rugby season look like?
25:15 What is your process of onboarding?
30:35 What is your high performance model for the All Blacks?
32:55 How do you define your rules of thumb?
36:35 What is the importance of communication?
38:55 How do you decide your return to play measures?
41:50 What made you write your book?
43:15 Three rules for becoming an athlete.
45:05 What is next for you?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Uncovering bad data as it relates to sports science.
The in’s and out’s of the logic model.
How to simplify complex systems.
Measurement fallacies and biases you should be aware of.
Resources + Links:
Connect with Peter on Twitter | @PeterSchryvers
Get your copy of Bad Data on Amazon | https://www.amazon.com/Bad-Data-Measure-Things-Metrics/dp/1633885909
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Here’s what you can learn from data - the good and the bad! We’re joined by Peter Schyrvers, urban planner and author of Bad Data: Why We Measure the Wrong Things and Often Miss the Metrics That Matter! We’ll be talking about his book to uncover the chapters as it relates to sports science. Our conversation today is all about data and how we misuse it. Join us as we go over the in’s and out’s of the logic model, simply complex systems, dissect common fallacies & biases, and much more. What is your data really telling you? Discover how to make the measurements that matter the most by mastering the bad data!
00:00 Welcome to the show, Peter Schryvers, the author of Bad Data!
01:45 What was the impetus for writing this book?
04:50 The difference between a measure and a metric.
06:00 Why do we measure?
08:00 What are the unintended consequences of teaching to the test?
12:05 How do you define a logic model?
14:40 Can we measure outcomes close to the scoreboard?
17:25 Ad break.
18:15 What is the problem with only counting part of the whole?
21:25 How do we look at the forest while accounting for the trees?
25:50 What skills are invaluable in team sports?
28:50 What is the gambler’s fallacy?
32:55 Unpacking the lamp post problem.
35:30 What is a good measure?
38:10 Does all data matter?
41:05 Why is it equally as important to choose what not to count?
42:00 What did it feel like writing your book about bad data?
45:25 What is your favorite section of the book?
49:25 The biggest lesson of Bad Data.
51:40 How do you measure complex systems?
54:35 What is next for you?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Applied versus non-applied sports science studies.
Models and measurements through the noise.
Research and development processes for team sports.
Resources + Links:
Connect with Patrick on Twitter | @osppatrick
Follow the TidyX Screencast on Twitter | @tidy_explained
Check out the Optimum Sports Performance Blog | http://optimumsportsperformance.com/blog/
Can I please be introduced to the Non-Applied Sports Scientist? by Patrick Ward
How to Measure Anything by Douglas W. Hubbard
Bad Data by Peter Schryvers
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What are the differences between the applied and non-applied sports scientists? Joining us today is research and development professional and sports science analyst for the Seattle Seahawks, Dr. Patrick Ward. Patrick focuses on research and development in professional sport with an emphasis in data analysis in American football. We’ll discuss his role for the Seahawks and what his models & processes look like. Then, we dive into the applied versus non-applied sports science debate and how you can utilize the latter to measure data closer to the scoreboard. How do you get through the noise and chaos? Is it possible to measure the hard intangibles? Where and when can you apply non-applied sports science? Tune in and find out what models make up the high performance sphere from the lens of a non-applied sports scientist!
0:00:00 Introducing research and development professional and sports science analyst, Dr. Patrick Ward!
0:02:35 What does your role as a research and development director entail?
0:06:00 Who are the gatekeepers of the division?
0:08:40 Walking through the PPDAC process.
0:14:40 Are we able to measure the hard things?
0:17:05 What parameters do we need to focus on finding?
0:21:10 What are the unintended consequences of measuring?
0:24:50 How do you bring one on one back into the discussion?
0:27:00 What was your reason for writing your blog?
0:33:10 The Texas sharpshooter of non-applied sports science.
0:36:20 What is your process as a non-applied sports scientist?
0:41:05 What studies would be used by applied sports scientists?
0:45:30 Where does applied versus non-applied come from?
0:51:00 Do you model the technical or tactical?
0:53:00 How to model team sports through the noise.
1:00:30 What are some simple models you tend to use?
1:03:15 What is coming up next for you?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Clinimetrics: What is it and why it matters in sports science.
Measuring frameworks for validity and reliability.
Critical thinking skills and how to apply them.
The difference between replication and reproduction.
Resources + Links:
An Introduction to the Philosophy of Science by Kent W. Staley
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What sports science concepts do coaches need to know about? More importantly, how can they apply them? This week’s special guest is Professor Franco Impellizzeri! Franco works at the Human Performance Research Center Faculty of Health at the University of Technology in Sydney, Australia. He started his career as a coach and has now authored several peer-reviewed & index journal publications in the area of sports science. Today, our discussion focuses on critical thinking, research, and clinimetrics for practical application. Franco goes over everything, from basic research concepts in academia to frameworks for measuring validity and reliability. As we go, we’ll talk about replication versus reproduction, quality checking studies, improving metrics, and more. Join us in taking up a scientific lens to find out what it all means and why it matters!
0:00:00 Welcome to the show, Franco Impellizzeri, Professor at the Human Performance Research Center Faculty of Health at the University of Technology in Sydney, Australia!
0:02:45 What does it mean to be a skeptic?
0:07:30 How do you teach your students to focus on what’s important?
0:10:40 Getting familiar with the philosophy of science.
0:14:40 What are the benefits of learning these theories?
0:17:15 Why are critical thinking skills important and how do you teach them?
0:22:15 How does statistics apply to practical performance?
0:25:25 What are the basic concepts of research?
0:28:05 What is the difference between replication and reproduction?
0:30:15 How do you quality check a study?
0:34:05 What is clinimetrics and why does it matter to sports science?
0:37:20 Are power and strength a latent construct?
0:39:30 What is a conceptual model?
0:43:40 Where should a coach start from a practical standpoint?
0:48:55 Measuring validity and reliability.
0:53:05 How do you framework validity without a gold standard?
0:59:10 Where do we still have to improve with metrics?
1:01:35 What is reliability and how do you find it?
1:06:45 What is next for you?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Why communication is the difference between success and failure.
Where does programming connect with teaching?
What Is The Tier System?
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Connect with Joe Kenn on Instagram | @BigHousePower
Neck Course: Reinforcement - Strength Training For Neck & Head Support
Joe’s Book: The Coach’s Strength Training Playbook
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Renowned strength and conditioning coach, Joe Kenn, shares his insights and experiences from over three decades in the field. He’s also an NFL Strength & Conditioning Coach of The Year! He covers a wide range of topics, including the changes in strength and conditioning, the importance of education and communication, the role of technology, and his approach to coaching and program design.
03:00 - How has strength and conditioning changed over the last three decades?
07:00 - How much education is really needed to be a great strength coach?
09:30 - Why communication is the difference between success and failure.
10:30 - Why everyone should spend time in the weight room.
14:00 - What does it take to build a program that is sustainable?
17:00 - What are the negatives of technology and why are more people being injured on gamedays?
19:30 - How expertise has changed the way we view strength and conditioning.
21:00 - What is the “Horizontal Hierarchy of Leadership?”
23:30 - How have his teams used sports science to prepare for games?
27:10 - Why having multiple coaches is in the best interest of the athlete?
28:00 - How Joe empowers his team?
33:00 - Why you should coach with your gut.
35:00 - What’s the most important part of using a force plate?
37:00 - Why max effort always wins.
40:00 - Why do measurables matter? What is your mission statement?
41:15 - Prepare. Protect. Produce.
44:30 - Where does programming connect with teaching?
48:00 - The number one factor to consider before you write programming.
49:50 - Your biggest goal as a strength professional.
52:30 - What Is The Tier System?
56:00 - Should athletes take days off?
58:00 - Should you train in a full-body or an upper and lower-body split?
1:00:30 - How Joe designed a full-body free weight workout.
1:04:10 - Why he believes in the three-day system.
1:06:30 - How his Dad impacted his life and decisions.
1:13:00 - The biggest lesson he learned from his high school football coach.
1:16:00 - How he adjusted to losing his father.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Treatments Dr. Mike Prebeg has adopted as high performance sports has evolved.
Dr. Mike Prebeg’s roles and responsibilities as a consulting chiropractor for the NHL and the New York Yankees baseball team.
Resources + Links:
Connect with Dr. Mike Prebeg on Instagram @mikeprebeg
https://www.skillsinhand.com/dr-prebeg
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
I’m joined by certified chiropractic sports physician, Dr Mike Prebeg. He specializes in neurofunctional sports performance working with the world's top athletes. His success with his patients has earned him the position of consulting chiropractor for the NHL players association and the New York Yankees baseball team. He talks about mentors like Charlie Francis, shares treatments he uses for NHL players, and the current landscape of high performance hockey in terms of the medical teams.
01:40 Meet Dr. Mike Pregeg + early connections and mentors in the industry.
04:20 What are a couple main takeaways you learned from Charlie Francis?
08:30 Did you always want to be a chiropractor and did you specifically want to treat athletes?
12:30 Dr. Mike Pregeg’s roles and responsibilities as a consulting chiropractor for the NHL.
13:40 What is neurofunctional therapy?
19:15 Is there a bronze or silver medal treatment comparison if we don’t have access to work with you as the gold standard?
29:40 Do you use tools to make rotation measurements and adjustments?
38:00 How do you make sure players have lasting results post treatments like acupuncture?
42:30 What has changed over the years as far as high performance in the NHL?
54:00 What mentorship opportunities do you offer?
57:15 The importance of asking better questions and being a critical thinker.
01:00:00 How do you want your legacy to be remembered?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
How we can evaluate what makes a great strength and performance coach.
Who should be able to determine who’s qualified to be a coach?
Does the field of Strength & Conditioning cause more injuries than it prevents?
Resources + Links:
Connect with Keir Wenham-Flatt on Instagram | @call.me.kier
Learn more from the Strength Coach Network:
https://strengthcoachnetwork.com/
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Does the field of Strength & Conditioning cause more injuries than it prevents? We’re diving in with Keir Wenham-Flatt, the founder of the Strength Coach Network and someone who has worked with elite-level athletes all over the globe. With no shortage of controversial opinions, we talk more about what’s wrong with the current accreditation model, why schools are setting up most people for failure, what makes a great coach, and whether players need to spend more time in their sport or the weight room.
03:00 - What is the state of Performance in North America?
06:18 - How can we evaluate what makes a good coach?
09:30 - How can programs evaluate a strength coach’s effectiveness?
14:00 - Advice to anyone who wants to become a strength & performance coach.
18:25 - Why Kier believes school is a Ponzi Scheme.
26:00 - Who should be able to determine who’s qualified to be a coach?
28:27 - Why the accreditation process has a huge conflict of interest.
34:13 - What’s the biggest lesson of your career, so far?
37:20 - Why the biggest opportunity of his career actually turned out to be the worst decision of his life.
41:30 - What countries has he worked in?
44:30 - Why did Kier Wenham-Flatt walk away from coaching?
52:11 - Should critical thinking be taught as a prerequisite for higher learning?
54:31 - Why those who are best at pattern recognition will win.
56:54 - Why heuristics still hold just as much value as technology.
59:30 - When is it worth getting into a debate on Twitter?
1:02:05 - Does the field of Strength & Conditioning cause more injuries than it prevents?
1:06:39 - Should players spend more time in their sport than in the weight room?
1:08:40 - Are tests good indicators of who will have success?
1:12:10 - Why do we look at the outliers?
1:14:00 - Are Strength & Performance coaches just observational researchers?
1:15:08 - What is the Strength Coach Network?
1:17:31 - What can people expect in The Fundamentals course from The Strength Coach Network?
1:18:45 - How can you work with Kier Wenham-Flatt?
1:22:30 - What is the legacy you want to leave?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Matt's experience in his first year with the LA Kings.
The 4 P’s you need in your department.
Resources + Links:
Connect with Matt
Instagram @mprice_sportssci
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What's your playbook from the ice to the legacy you want to leave? In this episode, I have a fantastic conversation with friend and director of strength and performance science of the LA Kings, Matt Price. Matt shares his experience coming on to work with the LA Kings following their victory of winning the Stanley Cup in 2014, and what it was like implementing gold standards of KPI’s that hadn’t been taken seriously prior to him working with the team. Matt is truly a professional with a vision to leave the game better than he found it, and we get to pick his brain about his early years in the industry as well as the current landscape and the legacy he is working to leave as a coach and a father.
02:00 How did your education at University of Calgary shape you as an individual and sports scientist?
07:00 What are some big takeaways from your experience with the alpine skiing program?
10:40 The obsession with preventing ACL injuries.
12:30 What was your first year like working with the LA Kings?
16:20 Implementing and taking KPI’s seriously starting as simple as body weight.
21:00 How would you define a high performance model in the NHL? 25:15 The four P’s you need in your department.
30:20 How do you define success for the LA Kings in your sports performance model?
37:15 Is the perception of the program more important than the program itself?
41:20 What stones do you feel are yet to be uncovered in the sport?
46:00 Why athletes should return to skating as soon as possible.
53:30 Do you have a decision tree to check before returning to play?
59:00 How do you want to be remembered as a coach and a man?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
How Chad’s position as an assistant strength and conditioning coach prepared him to be head strength and conditioning coach of the Edmonton Oilers.
Chad's thoughts on return to play, what to consider with on ice testing, and how to communicate impactful information to key decision makers!
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Today’s guest is head strength and conditioning coach of the Edmonton Oilers, Chad Drummond. We discuss his transition from an assistant strength and conditioning coach, to head strength and conditioning coach, what his job encompasses on a daily basis, the return to play process, and communicating data to key decision makers! I had such a great time learning about Chad, and the multiple areas our thought processes align. Tune in to the end to hear the questions Chad asks himself and his staff!
01:00 What do you currently oversee at the Edmonton Oilers?
02:30 How did previous roles prepare you to be Head Strength and Conditioning Coach?
08:16 Are there objective measures you rank management and the team on?
11:40 How does the team define and track injuries?
16:00 Timelines from return to train and return to play.
22:15 If I took your GPS unit away, could you create rules of thumb that lead you to the same result? 27:20 What are good baseline tests for training camp?
33:40 Things to consider with on ice testing.
39:00 What have you found successful in procuring baseline measures?
44:50 Thoughts on communication with coaches: inform vs persuade.
49:40 Where do you think we are in regards to high performance?
56:00 The questions we ask ourselves as a staff.
58:15 How do you want to be remembered as a coach?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
How to Program For Sled Sprint Training
Training In A Club Model with All Different Ages and Skill Levels
What are the strengths and weaknesses of a club model?
Resources + Links:
Read Lassi Laakso’s article on Resisted Sled Sprint Training:
https://www.lassilaakso.com/post/resisted-sled-sprint-training-a-practical-guide-to-improve-short-sprint-performance
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
As the Head Of Strength & Conditioning at Hockey Club Lugano, Lassi Laakso sees all different ages and skill levels as new prospects are brought up through the club model. From the day-to-day life of a coach to the differences in coaching a whole club versus one team, this conversation will provide insight into the training world. Learn how working with players of different levels can make you a better trainer and how a coach's experience as a player can impact their buy-in. We also dive into the key metrics coaches focus on to track athletes' progress in and out of season, as well as a deep dive into resisted sled sprint training, its kinomatic differences from pure sprinting, and how to program it.
01:15 - What does a day look like as a Strength & Conditioning coach for an entire club?
06:23 - What’s the biggest difference coaching in the club model versus working with only one team?
08:05 - How has working with different levels made you a better trainer?
10:13 - Does being a hockey player himself impact the buy-in he gets from the teams he trains?
12:48 - How does the European Hockey schedule compare to the NHL?
18:19 - How do you work with more experienced players to give them more autonomy in the workouts and training routines?
20:25 - What defines a successful high-performance model to you?
27:00 - What metrics do you focus on for your athletes to make sure they’re progressing in and out of season?
32:00 - Adduction to Abduction Ratios in hockey players, what’s important?
35:40 - What are the strengths and weaknesses of working in the club model?
41:45 - Collaboration, How Finland and Sweeden work together to collaborate on data for the improvement for both clubs and their players.
45:11 - His biggest takeaways from writing his article, “Resisted Sled Sprint Training – A Practical Guide to Improve Short Sprint Performance.”
47:40 - What’s the difference in sled sprint training and sled marching?
48:30 - The biggest kinomatic differences between sled sprinting and pure sprinting.
51:30 - How do you define sprint performance?
53:00 - How to program Resisted Sled Sprint Training.
55:40 - What is he currently studying while finishing up his Masters Degree?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Building and assessing a high performance model and staff.
- The return to play versus return to train processes from a performance standpoint.
- What external load monitoring and Athlete Management Systems provide.
Resources + Links:
The Neo-Generalist by Kenneth Mikkelsen and Richard Martin
Range by David Epstein
The Tyranny of Metrics by Jerry Muller
Risk Savvy by Gerd Gigerenzer
Gut Feelings by Gerd Gigerenzer
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Where is the future of the high performance model heading? To find out, we’re joined by Devan McConnell, the high performance director for the Arizona Coyotes. Before his time at the Coyotes, Devan wore several hats as the director of performance science and reconditioning for the New Jersey Devils, and as the head of hockey performance and sports science at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. We’ll discuss his collegiate and professional careers to see how his experiences have helped him build the Coyotes high performance model & staff. As we go, we also explore his systems and measurements in place for in season and the long term, the differences between return to train and return to play, integrations for Athlete Management Systems, and the future of the high performance model in the NHL, all from a performance & sports science angle. Find out how the high performance model evolves in the high performance hockey world!
0:00:00 Introducing Devan McConnell, the high performance director for the Arizona Coyotes.
0:01:30 What are your current responsibilities with the Coyotes?
0:03:35 What elements have you added to your high performance model that you were missing before?
0:08:50 How have your past experiences given you a competitive advantage?
0:12:40 What elements are critical to your high performance model?
0:16:00 How do you assess the model?
0:20:45 What is your measurement checklist?
0:26:20 When using technology, what buckets do you use?
0:29:30 Why are baseline numbers important? How and when do you collect these measures?
0:32:40 The value of on ice testing.
0:34:50 How does on ice testing work in the organization now?
0:36:25 Return to train versus return to play.
0:41:40 What do you look for from a performance standpoint?
0:44:10 What external load metrics are important?
0:47:00 From your experience, what do you gain from external load monitoring?
0:52:05 Why do you use Athlete Management Systems?
0:55:35 How do you use the AMS?
0:58:40 How do you like to communicate data?
1:00:40 What is the future of the high performance model in the NHL?
1:03:15 Where is the pendulum swinging currently?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Lessons from working in the NHL.
Where Eric thinks the future of technology will evolve in the NHL.
What Eric is currently doing working with the Italian Ice Hockey Federation.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What is the future of technology in the NHL? What metrics should we be focusing on? In this episode I’m joined by High Performance Director of the Italian Ice Hockey Federation, Eric Renaghan. Eric is a wealth of knowledge and experience from his time working as head strength and conditioning coach with the Saint Louis Blues, and member of the 2019 Stanley Cup team! Prior to his time with the Blues, he held the title of assistant strength and conditioning coach with the Vancouver Canucks and San Jose Sharks. We have an in depth conversation about athlete profiling and the use of force plates in ice hockey! Tune in to hear success tips Eric has learned from working with multiple NHL teams, to now working with the Italian Ice Hockey Federation.
02:00 What were things that separated you from the pack?
06:15 Should we be more worried about managing, development, or both?
08:40 What are some Ah-Ha moments while working in the NHL?
13:00 What is profiling and why is it important?
19:00 Have you checked out the masterclass?
20:30 How to choose the best technology.
24:30 Success tips Eric has learned working in the NHL.
32:15 Diving into force plate testing: strategy, output and health.
43:40 What is the importance of collecting longitudinal data?
46:30 How many metrics should we focus on?
53:00 Where do you see the industry can improve and evolve in the future of the NHL?
57:40 What are you currently working on with the Italian Ice Hockey Federation?
01:02:30 Is your presentation on profiling available?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The high performance model from a psychological perspective.
- What “the zone” means, how to get your athletes back in it, and what derails them.
- Coaching mental toughness: what to do and what to avoid.
- Advice for parents of young athletes for better mental health.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Are you ready to take a look into the mind of a high performance athlete? Today’s guest is Dr. Dana Sinclair, the founder of Human Performance International and a clinical assistant professor with the Faculty of Medicine in British Columbia. A former international athlete, Dr. Sinclair is now a licensed psychologist working and consulting with individuals in the medical, corporate, and entertainment spheres. In this episode, we have an educational discussion covering the high performance model, mental toughness, and “the zone”, all from a psychological perspective. You’ll learn how to get your athletes back in the zone and what derails them from it, how to coach better mental toughness with context, the difference between perfection and excellence in performance, and even more. Tap into the high performance mindset to draw out the best from your players!
00:00 Join in for an educational episode with featured guest, Dr. Dana Sinclair, licensed psychologist and consultant!
02:20 What is your background in sports psychology?
03:55 What does a typical day look like for you?
04:50 As a former athlete, what made sports psychology interest you?
06:30 Where are we in the psychological aspect of the high performance model?
08:00 What do you think is a better model?
11:15 What are your main buckets for consulting?
13:10 How do you measure the intangibles?
15:55 How do players approach you as a consultant?
17:40 Defining “the zone”.
19:55 How can we get athletes back in the zone?
21:50 Can you use emotion as your friend?
23:45 What is mental preplanning?
24:55 “Perfection” versus “excellence”.
26:30 How do you mitigate the influence of social media on your athletes?
28:10 What is the value of self talk?
30:10 What can parents of young athletes do to support their kids’ mental health?
33:35 What can we do to help with life after hockey?
39:00 What is mental toughness?
41:20 Mental toughness from a strength & conditioning perspective.
44:00 How can we better find mental toughness?
44:45 How can players stay in the moment?
49:25 What are your goals in short term competitions?
51:00 What can you tell us about your new book?
52:50 What do you want your legacy to be?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- How to be a better, more effective communicator, leader, and coach.
- The use and value of roleplay & improv for situational awareness.
- How Art Of Coaching courses help professionals sharpen communication and leadership skills.
- What the messy reality of leadership and power dynamics looks like.
Resources + Links:
Check out Art Of Coaching for podcasts, coaching, and more!
Learn more about Brett’s upcoming book | https://artofcoaching.com/begin
Art of Coaching Podcast E146 | HOW TO DEAL WITH OVERWHELM AND BURNOUT
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What is holding you back from becoming a conscious communicator, leader, and coach? Joining us is performance coach, author, keynote speaker, and founder of Art Of Coaching, Brett Bartholomew. Brett has built an empire of communication that helps professionals of various fields and industries enhance their ability to lead more effectively by better understanding human persuasion and power dynamics. Today, we have an in depth conversation about communication: how do we become better communicators through engagement, situational awareness, human understanding, among other modalities? Most of all, how does better communication make us better coaches? We’ll discuss the use of roleplay and improv, more about the courses Art Of Coaching offers to sharpen power dynamics, and the messy reality of leadership. Discover more about conscious coaching in the high performance sphere!
0:00:00 Welcome Brett Bartholomew, performance coach, author of Conscious Coaching, keynote speaker, and founder of Art Of Coaching!
0:03:30 What does a day in your business look like for you?
0:07:30 What are you researching for your PhD right now?
0:13:05 What is objectivity and subjectivity in terms of communication?
0:16:35 The value of “buy in”.
0:19:20 How do you coach an engaging program?
0:23:20 What are your thoughts on a cooperative versus direct approach in relation to training ages?
0:27:45 What are we doing well in our field?
0:29:20 How can we still improve in our field?
0:34:20 What is the biggest sign of a lack of professionalism to you?
0:39:25 How can you get better at self-promotion?
0:45:35 Why should coaches embrace the criticism?
0:50:30 Where does situational awareness fit into your courses?
0:54:25 What are your courses trying to bring back and normalize?
0:56:00 What do we gain from roleplaying? Why should we not fear it?
1:01:00 What course do you recommend for a first timer?
1:03:45 How do we look at burnout?
1:06:00 What are the three dimensions of burnout?
1:10:05 Finding your second mountain.
1:15:30 What can you tell us about your new book?
1:18:15 What do you want your legacy to be?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
The role and goals of the medical performance staff in the NHL.
Return to play decision making within the medical and skill development team.
The evolution of equipment in return to play and injury mitigation.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What is the role of the medical staff in high performance hockey? This week, we are joined by Jon Geller, the current assistant athletic trainer for the Montreal Canadiens. Before working with the Canadiens, Jon served as the assistant athletic trainer for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Prior to his time with the Leafs, Jon served as the Head Athletic trainer for the Hamilton Bulldogs (AHL). Today, we’ll discuss Jon’s responsibilities within the medical staff and how he assesses dynamic movement competency in both injured and healthy athletes to keep them at the top of their game.
We’ll learn what communication between the medical staff and skill development team looks like, particularly in return to play decisions. How is it handed off between medical and skill development experts? How are final decisions for return to play made? We’ll also touch on equipment and its evolution in injury mitigation, building baselines during the pre-season, and the future of the high performance hockey model. Find out more about the behind of the scenes world of the medical staff and how they keep their athletes healthy and on the ice!
00:00 Welcome Jon Geller, the assistant athletic therapist for the Toronto Maple Leafs, to the podcast and learn how he keeps players healthy and at the top of their game!
01:30 How did you start working in high performance hockey?
05:05 How did the two worlds of theory and reality evolve for you?
06:40 What are your current responsibilities as the assistant athletic therapist?
08:05 How do you build baselines pre-season?
09:40 When do you reschedule assessments?
11:10 How do you communicate within your medical team?
13:35 How are decisions reached?
15:45 How are messages communicated to management of the players?
16:10 First touch points for return to play.
18:55 What are some heuristics or your rules of thumbs you use to assess injury before return to play?
23:00 How is equipment evolving in the NHL?
27:00 How does equipment play a role as a performance enhancement and in reducing potential injury?
29:00 How do you integrate the skill development coach and return to play specialist in the return to play process?
31:10 What external and internal metrics do you use to guide the skill development/return to play expert?
33:10 How do you use objective information to inform or persuade the skills specialist?
34:50 How does the final return to play decision get made?
36:00 Is a comprehensive, high level understanding of the game important?
38:45 The future of the high performance model in hockey.
39:50 Are we over-measuring?
42:00 What is the role of Toronto Maple Leafs’ hockey research and development staff?
43:00 What would you do differently if you could start over as a young coach?
45:35 What have been the challenges of the last couple of years?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
The hockey player’s hip, specifically adductors and abductors.
Biomechanics of the hockey stride.
Return to play from acute injury to back on ice.
Resources + Links:
Learn more at https://johnsnyderdpt.com/
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Are you ready to get an in-depth look into the advanced athlete’s hip? In this episode, we have double the expertise as we are joined by physical therapists, John Snyder and Matt Kelly! John is a certified orthopedic specialist and strength and conditioning specialist who specializes in the treatment of athletes in hip pain. Matt has his Masters in Physiotherapy from Dalhousie University, his Bachelors of Science and Kinesiology from University of Prince Edward Island, and his second Masters at McGill University under Dr. David Pearsall.
Today, we’ll be discussing the hockey player’s hip to dive into adductors and abductor musculature and how we treat them. We’ll take a biomechanical standpoint to look further into the hockey stride, the role of the hips, and considerations for the therapy level. Then, we go over the question of return to play: What buckets need to be checked? What would they recommend to get athletes back on the ice? As we go, we’ll talk about the benefits of early off season, the rising occurrences of FAI, pelvic position and pelvic rotation, and even more. Join in for an informed conversation all about hips, hockey, and high performance!
00:00 Introducing two special guests physical therapists, John Synder and Matt Kelly!
02:15 What was Matt’s ice hockey research from his second masters program?
04:30 What has been Matt’s background in hockey?
05:35 What are your thoughts about the analogy of hips being the engine for hockey players?
08:20 From a biomechanical standpoint, what is the role of the hips during the stride?
10:40 How do we treat the adductor musculature?
12:40 What is the merit of the adduction to abduction ratio?
17:05 What measurements does John use to add value?
20:20 The Copenhagen side squeeze test.
21:20 What tests work best for minimal budgets?
23:05 Where and why do you start getting an athlete back to the ice?
27:25 Is there merit to an early off season for the hips?
30:10 Why do you think we see more of FAI recently?
34:00 Are pelvic alignment modalities trying to fix the same thing?
40:25 Do you take biomechanical considerations into therapy?
45:10 What buckets need to be checked for return to play?
51:55 What are your thoughts on ice work during the summer for professional athletes?
55:30 What is unique about hockey players?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The contrast in development versus management for the in season and off season.
- Communicating and utilizing data and biometrics, including how to approach outliers.
- What anchor points a seasoned strength and conditioning coordinator uses to measure progress.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
How do you refine quality in your players through development and management? This week’s special guest is Mike Potenza, the President of SCAPH and the current strength and conditioning director for the San Jose Sharks. Mike oversees the strength and conditioning programs and postseason individual training programs for his athletes. Our conversation will dive into the topics of strength, development, management, and sustainability in the world of high performance hockey. What is the contrast between development and management, in season and off season? What metrics and numbers does he track, and how does he communicate this to players and staff? What anchor points are important when measuring progress? Join us in discovering the key to unlocking high performance in your athletes, whether they’re off or on the ice!
0:00:00 Meet the strength and conditioning director in his 16th season with the San Jose Sharks, Mike Potenza!
0:02:05 What are the tangibles and intangibles of your sustainability?
0:04:45 What changes have you seen during your sixteen years in the high performance hockey sphere?
0:07:50 How have metrics and evaluations changed?
0:09:15 Data & numbers versus gut feeling.
0:13:40 Why do we need technical context to bring the numbers to life?
0:17:50 What does management look like for you in season?
0:22:50 What anchor points are you interested in during the in season?
0:26:25 Why is communication between coaches and athletes so valuable for both sides?
0:28:40 Translating off ice strength into on ice strength.
0:29:50 How do you communicate metrics to your players?
0:32:25 What metrics are you getting value from?
0:34:45 How do you measure blood, and how do you utilize that biometric?
0:40:10 What is your approach to outliers?
0:41:45 How do you objectively rate yourself and your staff in season?
0:45:25 Do you reach out to private strength coaches? Why or why not?
0:47:00 How do you pinpoint development program goals for the off season?
0:50:45 What question do you fear the most?
0:52:05 Are your anchor points similar in season and off season?
0:54:20 What is your current role in SCAPH?
0:58:35 What is coming up next for SCAPH?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- What makes an effective, skilled coach for effective, skilled players.
- The importance of learning and evolution for coaches.
- Preparation for athletes in elite level sports outside of ice hockey.
- Technical, tactical mastery in strength and conditioning.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What does maximum optimization look like in elite level sports outside of ice hockey? Today, we will have an in depth conversation about preparation for high performance sports with the current head strength and conditioning coach for the Arizona Cardinals, Buddy Morris. Buddy has worked with 13 first round NFL draft picks and 15 first team All Americans during his career, and recently won the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach of the Year award in 2021.
In this episode, we will cover his experience in the NFL and how he trains and prepares his skilled athletes. We dive into the physiology of velocity and speed, preparation and programming for advanced athletes, assessing and correcting asymmetries, and much more. Most of all, we’ll discuss the importance of learning, growing, and improving as coaches for the benefit of the game and the players. Find out what it means to be an effective coach in the high performance sport world at large!
0:00:00 Meet the head strength and conditioning coach for the Arizona Cardinals, Buddy Morris, to learn how coaches prepare their athletes in other elite level sports!
0:02:10 What can you learn from preparation coaches from other sports?
0:09:25 Why do simple programs work for both beginner and advanced athletes in different ways?
0:14:35 What do you think causes more injuries in track and field?
0:18:20 How we view speed and velocity.
0:22:10 Who do you learn from?
0:26:15 Why do coaches need to learn first in order for their athletes to learn?
0:30:10 What cannot be measured that an athlete needs to have?
0:31:45 What is the importance of technical mastery for strength and conditioning?
0:35:40 How do you bridge the gap?
0:38:00 What qualities do you work on in season in the NFL?
0:40:30 How do subtle nuances affect your in season menus?
0:43:10 What does force of max velocity look like in elite athletics?
0:47:20 What distances do you set for your skilled athletes?
0:50:50 How do you correct asymmetries?
0:53:25 Which assets have helped you with directing training?
0:56:10 Why is abruptly stopping detrimental to systems?
0:58:35 How should coaches approach assessments?
1:00:25 The limitations of corrective exercises.
1:04:10 Why do coaches need to learn, change, and think in their jobs?
1:08:30 What will be the day that you retire?
1:11:25 Why is the brain the next step for optimization?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Internal and external workload monitoring and application for ice hockey.
- The value and cost of distance based measurements.
- How to measure and find the sweet spot for team performance.
Resources + Links:
Twitter: @kevinneeld
Website: https://www.kevinneeld.com/ & https://optimizingadaptation.com/
Email: kn@kevinneeld.com
Differences in External Workload Demand between Session Types and Positions in Collegiate Men’s Ice Hockey by Kevin Neeld, Ben Peterson, et al.
Impact of Preceding Workload on Team Performance in Collegiate Men's Ice Hockey by Kevin Neeld, Ben Peterson, et al.
Speed Training for Hockey by Kevin Neeld and Travis Pollen
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What is the difference between internal and external workload, and how is it impacting your athletes’ performance? This week’s guest is the head performance coach for the Boston Bruins, Kevin Neeld. Kevin is a certified strength and conditioning specialist with a masters in Kinesiology and Exercise Neuroscience, and recently completed his PhD in Rocky Mountain University’s Human and Sport Program. With his previous experience working as the assistant strength and conditioning coach for the San Jose Sharks for two years, and as the director of programming and performance in the private sector for seven, we’ll discuss Kevin’s lessons and philosophies he learned from both the private and public sectors. Then, we unpack his PhD journey and two published articles concerning workload demands and monitoring. What are internal and external workloads and what is their value? How do you apply modifications based on metrics? What is the ideal balance for team performance? We’re covering all of this and more as we explore the impact of workloads on high performance ice hockey!
0:00:00 Kevin Neeld, a certified strength and conditioning specialist and the current head performance coach for the Boston Bruins!
0:02:15 How would you contrast your experiences in the private versus public sectors?
0:05:55 How did your two years in San Jose set you up for your current position?
0:08:50 What does a typical day look like as the head performance coach?
0:14:00 Who do you meet with in your support staff and what do you communicate with them?
0:16:30 How much flexibility do you allow your players?
0:19:20 What is your game day philosophy?
0:21:45 How did you navigate challenges during your PhD journey?
0:26:30 Defining internal and external workload.
0:28:35 What is the significance of these measurements?
0:33:05 What is the value and cost of distance based measurements?
0:37:00 What metrics do you place more value in?
0:42:35 How do you apply modifications?
0:47:15 What were your “aha” moments during your research for your second article?
0:51:40 How do you measure team performance?
0:55:00 The team performance sweet spot.
0:58:10 What resources do you offer and/or recommend?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The contrast in development versus management for the in season and off season.
- Communicating and utilizing data and biometrics, including how to approach outliers.
- What anchor points a seasoned strength and conditioning coordinator uses to measure progress.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
How do you refine quality in your players through development and management? This week’s special guest is Mike Potenza, the President of STAPH and the current strength and conditioning director for the San Jose Sharks. Mike oversees the strength and conditioning programs and postseason individual training programs for his athletes. Our conversation will dive into the topics of strength, development, management, and sustainability in the world of high performance hockey. What is the contrast between development and management, in season and off season? What metrics and numbers does he track, and how does he communicate this to players and staff? What anchor points are important when measuring progress? Join us in discovering the key to unlocking high performance in your athletes, whether they’re off or on the ice!
0:00:00 Meet the strength and conditioning director in his 16th season with the San Jose Sharks, Mike Potenza!
0:02:05 What are the tangibles and intangibles of your sustainability?
0:04:45 What changes have you seen during your sixteen years in the high performance hockey sphere?
0:07:50 How have metrics and evaluations changed?
0:09:15 Data & numbers versus gut feeling.
0:13:40 Why do we need technical context to bring the numbers to life?
0:17:50 What does management look like for you in season?
0:22:50 What anchor points are you interested in during the in season?
0:26:25 Why is communication between coaches and athletes so valuable for both sides?
0:28:40 Translating off ice strength into on ice strength.
0:29:50 How do you communicate metrics to your players?
0:32:25 What metrics are you getting value from?
0:34:45 How do you measure blood, and how do you utilize that biometric?
0:40:10 What is your approach to outliers?
0:41:45 How do you objectively rate yourself and your staff in season?
0:45:25 Do you reach out to private strength coaches? Why or why not?
0:47:00 How do you pinpoint development program goals for the off season?
0:50:45 What question do you fear the most?
0:52:05 Are your anchor points similar in season and off season?
0:54:20 What is your current role in STAPH?
0:58:35 What is coming up next for STAPH?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The keys to sustainability in career and culture.
- What makes a good coach and how to evolve as a practitioner.
- Advice to young strength coaches and performance directors coming up.
- The secret ingredient to a winning team.
Resources + Links:
The Physics of Hockey by Alain Hache
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What are the key qualities behind 21 years in the high performance world? In this episode, our special guest is a man who wears many hats: Dr. Pete Friesen, certified athletic trainer, strength and conditioning specialist, massage therapist, and dry needler. He is an adjunct professor at Duke, Elon, and Arcadia Universities in the schools of physical therapy and served as the head strength and conditioning coach of the US women’s national hockey program from 2018-2019. During his 21 years with the Carolina Hurricanes head athletic trainer, strength and conditioning coach, and massage therapist, his duties included training & dietary standards, prep of rehab programs, and acute injury for players.
Our conversation today will dive deep into his career of 21 years as a high performance professional in the NHL. We’ll learn his secret to sustainability in career and culture, his advice to young up and coming coaches, his perspective on return to play on stakes, and much more. What is the ingredient to a winning team? How can we evolve further as practitioners and professionals? What is the value of gaining the trust of our athletes? Come and learn how this Swiss Army knife stays sharp and in the game over over two decades!
00:00 Give a big welcome to certified athletic trainer, strength and conditioning specialist, massage therapist, and adjunct professor at Duke, Elon, and Arcadia Universities in the schools of physical therapy, Dr. Pete Friesen!
03:15 How did you get involved in coaching and the NHL?
05:25 What quality allowed you to sustain your position in the NHL for 21 years?
08:45 What lessons did you learn the most from during those 21 years?
11:25 Sustaining team culture.
14:30 Were there any challenges with wearing so many hats?
17:10 If you were to construct your own NHL performance department, what would it encompass?
22:15 How did building trust in your relationships parallel your time in the hockey league?
24:15 What important metrics did you track during your career?
28:50 How do you get valuable and reliable measurements?
30:10 The future direction of measurements.
34:40 How did you feel about getting your name on the Stanley Cup?
40:40 What was the special ingredient in that year?
43:35 What is the value of listening and learning from your athletes?
46:40 What things did you look at concerning return to play on skates?
50:10 What is the significance of knowing the equipment and ice conditions?
52:20 How can we prevent injuries through strength & conditioning?
55:15 What advice would you give to young strength coaches?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The responsibilities and lessons during the early days as Toronto Maple Leaf strength & conditioning coach.
- Global training systems in the high performance world.
- What it’s like working in the private sector.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
How do you leave a lasting impact on the game? Our guest for today’s episode is Matt Nichol, a strength and conditioning coach and performance specialist based in Toronto! Join us as we delve into an incredible conversation about the game from a seasoned strength and conditioning perspective. We’ll explore Matt’s early days with the Toronto Maple Leafs, his responsibilities and duties as head strength and conditioning coach, the influences and lessons he gained working with high performance coaches and athletes, and finally his experiences in the private sector. As we go, we’ll learn more about his approaches to working with hockey coaches and players for maximum optimization on and off the ice. Come and pick the brain of a veteran strength and conditioning coach who’s optimizing the world of high performance hockey!
00:00 Welcome Matt Nichol, business owner, performance specialist, and veteran strength & conditioning coach who has been in the game for decades!
02:05 How did you get your position with the Toronto Maple Leafs?
07:55 How did you establish trust in the hockey world after coming from the football world?
10:25 What were your duties and responsibilities with the Leafs?
16:30 Gaining context from the inside out.
18:15 What are some of your best memories of working with Mats Sundin?
25:55 What important lessons did you learn from Pat Quinn?
30:20 What were your responsibilities when you won the World Cup of Hockey 2004 gold medal?
33:35 Why is it important to have a cooperative approach?
34:55 How did you get involved with sports nutrition and supplements?
39:20 Working in the private sector with the little dungeon.
44:25 How did you incorporate on ice training during the summer?
48:30 Who were some of your mentors in the private sector?
52:30 How are thought processes behind global training systems evolving?
55:50 What is the footprint of your new gym?
58:30 What are the positives of the sports science community in the high performance sphere? What are the negatives?
1:01:25 How do you want to be remembered?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
Differences between training prep school athletes versus professional athletes.
How to create an environment for your players to find their unique value.
Measurements and management for the developmental athlete.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What do you need to know about coaching and developing your athletes? Today, we are joined by the business owner and coach, Dan Noble! Dan is the owner of Noble Sports and Performance and serves as the Head Hockey Coach and Director of Hockey at Upper Canada College. We’ll discuss training the developmental athlete, measurement versus management, and his experiences coaching in the OHL, prep school, and Hockey Canada’s women’s national team. What are the differences between prep school players and professional players? What is the key to creating a thriving environment? How does he encourage his athletes to find their value as people? Join us as we explore impact, communication, and culture in the high performance hockey sphere!
0:00:00 Welcome Coach Dan Noble to the podcast, the Head Hockey Coach and Director of Hockey at Upper Canada College!
0:01:25 What does a typical work week look like as the head hockey coach, director of hockey, and business owner?
0:05:25 What is the beauty of having all of these different experiences?
0:08:30 How did the loss of your father inspire you to get more uncomfortable?
0:10:15 How do you approach training & developing for prep school athletes versus OHL athletes?
0:13:30 Strength training versus technical coaching.
0:15:00 What is the difference between OHL and prep school?
0:19:15 What are your anchors?
0:22:20 Why does fatigue and stress build up in players? How do you train these players?
0:27:10 What do you measure and how do you communicate it to your coaching staff?
0:32:30 Communicating with younger athletes.
0:35:40 Where are you in our current era of technology?
0:39:25 What do coaches need to be able to do that technology can’t?
0:42:40 Why is it important to marry the context with the numbers?
0:44:10 How did you train your athletes to help them find their value?
0:50:05 What was your responsibility training the women’s national team?
0:51:25 How do you educate your athletes about lifestyle outside of the rink?
0:57:15 What advice would you give to a developmental player?
1:00:50 Why do we need to celebrate our athletes?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- How to adapt to coaching overseas in a foreign environment.
- Strength and conditioning research in combines and fitness tests for ice hockey.
- What external workloads are, and their application in the world of high performance athletics.
Resources + Links:
The Culture Map by Erin Meyer
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
How would a strength and conditioning coach trained in external workloads imagine his ideal combine? Our guest this week is Steve Nightingale, the current Sports Scientist and performance coach for the New Jersey Devils pursuing his PhD studying external workloads in ice hockey. He’ll share his experiences working abroad as coach in the KHL and how he adapted in an overseas, foreign environment. Moreover, we get his expert insight into strength and conditioning research for ice hockey, evaluating data analysis, as well as combines and other fitness tests. Then, we dive into his current PhD studies of external workloads to understand what they are and how to apply them in a high performance setting for your athletes. Join in on the conversation to find out how external workload monitoring can take you to the next level!
0:00:00 Meet sport scientist and performance coach for the New Jersey Devils with previous coaching experience in the KHL!
0:01:30 What was your experience coaching in China?
0:02:50 How did you manage stress in a heavy travel setting?
0:06:10 How does performance in the KHL compare with the NHL?
0:07:45 What are the major differences between them?
0:10:50 What lessons did you take away from your experience that you still use today?
0:15:40 Is it possible to change your mind after you’ve written something down?
0:17:00 What compelled you to write your article about combines?
0:19:35 What were the tests that you recommended at that time?
0:22:10 What do we need to be mindful about with tests and combines?
0:24:35 Imagining the utopian combine.
0:27:35 What are your main rocks that you look for over the course of the season?
0:30:20 How do you communicate that with your athletes?
0:35:00 How do you juggle your PhD life with your work?
0:37:00 What are external workloads?
0:38:00 How can external workload be applied in a real world setting?
0:39:35 What is the difference between an LPS system and an IMU?
0:40:35 How are these systems being used for high performance athletes?
0:42:20 What are the most important metrics to measure?
0:44:10 The importance of context when understanding data.
0:45:55 Having experience in external workload monitoring, what metrics do you place value in?
0:49:00 Can we use bucket information to periodize?
0:52:25 What “aha! moments” have you had from external workloads that most high performance coaches haven’t had yet?
0:54:40 How do you approach treatment for scratch players?
0:58:05 What would your ideal world look like for data analysis?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The influence of philosopher-scientist, Karl Popper, on critical thinking and coaching.
- Speed training and skating ability for team sports for on and off the ice.
- The difference between speed and game speed.
- Technical coaching in team sports: why we need it and its overall impact.
Resources + Links:
Learn more at https://altis.world/
Conjectures and Refutations by Karl Popper
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Can hockey players benefit from applied sprint training? Today, we have Stu McMillan, CEO of Altis, joining us for a critical breakdown on speed and sprint training in ice hockey. Stu has been an Olympic coach for over nine games, including having coached three home Olympic games before. With his focus on power and speed development, we’ll discuss what speed is, how it differs from game speed, and the complex systems between speed and players that coaches need to understand. We also dive into the influence of philosopher-scientist, Karl Popper, on Stu’s coaching and critical thinking skills. How do you train off ice speed acquisition for on ice? What do performance practitioners need to be aware of for technical training development? Why do we need to have more technical emphasis in team sports? We’ll answer all these questions and more as we explore capacity, ability, and potential within our athletes!
0:00:00 Join the conversation with this week’s guest, Stu McMillan, the CEO of Altis working with a variety of athletes in power and speed development!
0:01:40 How did you choose where to live?
0:07:40 What does a regular day at Altis look like for you?
0:10:15 How has philosopher-scientist, Karl Popper, influenced your coaching?
0:13:25 The scientific approach to philosophy.
0:16:15 How does problem solving philosophy relate to coaching?
0:18:25 Is track and field the foundation of all field-based sports? Why or why not?
0:20:25 What is speed?
0:22:45 What is speed in team sports?
0:26:10 The difference between speed and game speed in team sports.
0:28:40 How should coaches approach a chaotic system?
0:32:10 What is the bias towards measuring impact?
0:34:45 How do you bring off ice speed acquisition onto the ice?
0:37:00 What needs to be understood most about technical development training?
0:42:40 Do you believe speed should be trained in its environment?
0:44:25 Why do athletes need to be introduced to noise?
0:49:45 Is there a need to have more technical emphasis for team sport athletes?
0:53:25 Three rules of thumb for coaches to assess athletes without having a track and field background.
0:57:40 Do hockey players need to sprint?
0:59:30 What are your thoughts on the three day rollover? Do you still use it to train your athletes?
1:02:30 What are some projects you’re working on with Altis?
1:04:00 What do you want your legacy to be?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The transition and shift in game perspective going from player to coach.
- Coaching millennials and building team culture.
- Establishing communication between coaches, staff, and athletes.
- Creating positive growth and culture between performance staff and coaching staff.
Resources + Links:
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
How has one ice hockey coach already carved out his legacy? Today’s guest is Pete DeBoer, the current head coach of the Dallas Stars! Pete is an accomplished coach with 1,015 games in the NHL under his belt, was awarded CHL Coach of the Year, and is a two time Stanley Cup finalist. We’ll explore his transition from pro to coach, including how he got involved with coaching and who his most influential mentors were. Pete also shares his coaching techniques on fostering culture and communication within the team and among the staff. Along the way, we’ll discuss the key to balancing work and home life, pinpointing the signals while ignoring the noise, and encouraging the growth between performance staff and coaching staff for the benefit of the game and the athletes. Join in and take a peek into the head of a coaching legend!
0:00 Come and learn from the head coach of the Dallas Stars with 1,015 NHL games in total to his name, Pete DeBoer!
02:35 What led you to coaching?
06:10 Where did your coaching career begin?
07:45 What did you take away from working with Paul Maurice?
10:15 How did your perspective of the game shift as you went from player to coach?
12:45 Setting team culture.
14:40 What has changed in the game from when you were playing?
17:40 How do you find the right mentorship?
19:55 How has communication changed with coaching millennial athletes?
22:50 What does communication look like between your coaching staff?
25:40 How do you separate the signal from the noise?
30:05 Who were the media coaches/mentors you learned most from?
32:20 Work-life balance during the season.
35:35 What are the qualities that make a good sports performance coach?
38:05 How do you receive feedback from performance coaches?
40:05 What can the performance staff do to better support the coaching staff?
42:10 What advice do you have for young coaches?
43:45 What advice would you suggest for minor hockey parents?
45:55 What about for young players?
48:45 How do you want to be remembered?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Application of methods from a coaching and lab research perspective.
- Developing critical thinking skills and thinking like a scientist.
- What statistical tools a practitioner needs in their toolbox.
- Research in return to play from ACL and lower body injuries.
Resources + Links:
Check out Matt Jordon’s courses - https://www.jordanstrength.com/jscep-courses/
Paper: A Framework to Guide Practitioners for Selecting Metrics During the Countermovement and Drop Jump Tests
Paper: A Return to Skiing Envelope of Function for Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstructed Elite Alpine Ski Racers
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What happens when we apply more scientific thinking to the game of high performance hockey? In this episode, we will take a deep dive into sports science research and practice alongside our guest, Dr. Matt Jordan. Matt is the assistant professor at the University of Calgary with his PhD in medical science and a masters in exercise physiology. He has worked with a multitude of high performance athletes in the worlds of speed skating, cross country skiing, snowboarding, football, and even more.
Today, Matt will help us bridge the gap between science and practice as we discuss methods, application, and results for the recovering athlete. We’ll find out more about his research in return to play from lower body injuries and the variables and benchmarks he most often utilizes as anchor points. What is the difference between coaching methods and lab research methods? How do you develop critical thinking skills and think like a scientist? What are relevant return to play tests and measurements? Time to put on your thinking cap and master the tools you’ll need as a practitioner and as a researcher!
0:00:00 Join us in welcoming Dr. Matt Jordan, Assistant Professor at the University of Calgary who is bridging the gap between science and practice!
0:02:20 How did Dr. Walter Herzog’s teachings influence and impact you?
0:06:10 What makes scientific research difficult?
0:09:20 The contrast in sports science coaching versus lab research methods.
0:15:50 Where did you develop your critical thinking skills?
0:19:30 As a researcher, what do you look for the most in a paper?
0:25:00 What statistical concepts should practitioners be aware of?
0:29:30 What tools do practitioners need in their data collection toolbox?
0:31:40 How does the p-value affect the presentation of data?
0:35:55 What is your frequentist approach?
0:39:40 What major problem did you run into in your masters program?
0:42:25 The hierarchy of evidence.
0:45:35 What tests do you prefer for return to play from lower body injuries?
0:49:35 Is the isometric midthigh pull your full body measure of choice? Why or why not?
0:52:45 What tests do you find more relevant?
0:54:25 What metrics do you watch for in force plate assessments?
0:59:05 Beyond your anchor point metrics, what else do you look for in your research?
1:02:40 What kind of thinking do you try to avoid?
1:04:15 In your return to skiing envelope paper, what were you specifically looking for?
1:07:25 How did you start using the asymmetry index?
1:10:11 Where is the number in relation to the left to right differences in performance?
1:14:45 What is your new research you’ve been working on?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- All things speed in the world of high performance sports.
- How to increase speed and improve the quality of speed in your athletes.
- On and off ice speed training development programs and drills.
Resources + Links:
ALTIS Need for Speed Course
https://altis.world/product/altis-need-for-speed/
Check out Maximum Velocity Sprinting For Hockey Players by Vicki Bendus
https://www.prohockeystrength.com/public/Maximum-Velocity-Sprinting-For-Hockey-Players.cfm
Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -
The High Performance Hockey Masterclass
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Do you feel a need for speed? Joining us today is the lead sports performance coach at Brock University, Vicki Bendus! We’ll be diving into all things speed, from the science behind it to its practical application. We’ll discuss the benefits of on ice speed training, how to use speed as a tool, the key to creating a successful speed program for your high performance athletes, and more. Why is it important to increase and maximize the speed of your players? How can you efficiently utilize speed development on and off the ice? Speed is one of the many handy tools you have in your toolbelt, so find out how to fully use it to your advantage!
00:00 Say hello to Coach Vicki, the lead sports performance coach at Brock University now working on her PhD in Applied Health Sciences!
02:15 How has your high performance career affected your life?
06:35 What are your daily responsibilities as a lead sports performance coach?
07:55 What is speed?
10:50 The tools versus the craftsman.
14:05 What are the similarities between linear sprinting speed on and off ice? What are some contrasts?
18:25 What was the context behind working with Cory Kennedy on your article?
20:20 Did this article give you a lightbulb moment?
21:45 Would you suggest a shift towards speed and power development for an experienced athlete?
25:50 What distances do you track in season and off?
26:50 What technology do you use?
27:25 How do biomechanics affect a player’s speed & skating?
29:35 What makes a technical intervention worth it?
31:40 What is the difference between skating hard and skating fast?
33:50 How can you start a conversation with your coach about on ice speed training?
36:05 Approaching a more hesitant coach.
40:10 How do you structure your on ice speed work sessions?
43:30 How do you collaborate with your coach with your speed work?
45:50 What rules of thumb do you have for groups in rest? And how do you periodize?
48:15 How do you categorize your drills, and how do your drill sets change?
51:05 How did you create intent within your athletes during the summer?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Technology & tests a sports technologist recommends for measuring high performance hockey on and off the ice.
- The most important pieces to have, for budgets high to low.
- What problems technology works to solve and the challenges they face.
Resources + Links:
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What sports technology do you need to know about? Today, we want to introduce Ryan Smyth, sports scientist & technologist as well as the CEO of Park Sports Facility, one of Canada’s first athlete testing & sports science companies! Ryan is a treasure trove of sports technological knowledge and know-how. While he’s here, we’ll discuss technology in length to figure out what problems it works to solve, which pieces are most important, how to track data sets for high performance athletes, and more. We’ll also talk about what technology you should invest in for both high and low budgets, so you can get better measurements for your athletes. What tests can you run to mimic gameplay? Which are best to run on and off the ice? What are tech pieces an expert considers to be overvalued? Step into the future of technology with us as we find out the best way to measure high performance hockey!
00:00 Meet Ryan Smyth, sports scientist, sports technologist at Kinduct, and CEO of Park Sports Facility!
01:55 What is the Park Sports Facility, and what work do you do with Kinduct as a sports technologist?
05:45 What are the problems technology faces in high performance hockey?
07:30 What are the best teams?
10:55 How do you critically evaluate your testing battery?
12:55 Assessing reliability in technology.
16:05 What tests do you recommend for high performance hockey?
18:30 How do you communicate with athletes and coaches?
20:50 How do you communicate with coaches?
23:20 From your experience, what are the most useful on ice tests?
28:40 Have you tested with pucks? If so, what are the differences in performance?
31:40 What brands do you recommend for timing gates?
33:30 What are your thoughts and experiences with video analysis?
36:25 How do you use the My Sprint app?
38:30 Tech product line on a budget.
43:05 What are three pieces of tech you couldn’t live without?
45:50 What pieces of tech do you think are overvalued?
47:20 How did you use GPS information?
52:15 Can we find the perfect answer?
54:15 What would be important to measure off the ice if you were in charge of the NHL Combine? What about on ice?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- What it was like growing up in a prominent hockey family, the Hunters.
- The lessons & intangibles from past mentors, family members, and previous experiences.
- How the women’s game has changed then to now, and where it is going.
- Advice on how to cultivate culture, communicate, and cooperate with a team.
Resources + Links:
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
How far can you go when you put in the work? A true testament to elbow grease and hard work, Meghan Hunter, is joining us today! She is the current director of hockey administration & amateur scout for the Chicago Blackhawks. Meghan won’t let her family name do the talking for her, though; she’ll be sharing her own wisdom and experiences with the game from the POV of a former player & coach who made the transition to administration.
Our conversation will bring us back to her past to explore what it was like growing up as a Hunter, one of the first families of major junior hockey in Canada. We’ll go over the lessons she gained from past role models and mentors to follow her journey from beginning to end. Then, we seek her perspective on cultivating culture, her current responsibilities with the Blackhawks, the state of women’s games, and more. Join us as we learn how to work hard to play even harder!
00:00 Say hello to Meghan Hunter, director of hockey administration & amateur scout for the Chicago Blackhawks!
01:20 How did the small town atmosphere affect the way you were raised?
03:40 What were some values your father taught you as a young hockey player?
05:05 How was the support from your mother when you were young?
06:30 What were lessons you pulled from your uncles?
09:30 What lessons did your grandfather teach you?
12:30 What made you choose Wisconsin, and how did the opportunity appear?
16:15 Cultivating culture at Wisconsin as a coach.
18:05 What qualities made you the player you were?
19:30 How has the women’s game changed since you played?
21:00 How is the parity growing in the women’s game?
22:00 After coaching, what was the next step for you?
23:55 What were the challenges during the transition from player to coach?
25:15 How has coaching changed your perspective of the game from a technical & tactical standpoint?
26:50 Where did you learn to create culture?
28:05 Why is communication key to team building?
29:35 What did you take away from the Knights that you still use today?
32:55 What were your responsibilities as manager of hockey ops in national teams?
34:55 The power of using your network.
36:50 What are your duties with the Blackhawks? How have they changed since you first got the job?
39:05 What are your tasks as a scout?
40:05 What is next for you?
41:15 What advice do you have for a young, aspiring female hockey player?
42:00 How about advice for young hockey parents?
42:40 How do you want to be remembered in the game?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- What PRI is and how it has evolved over the years.
- Developing objective tests and treatment strategies as a physical therapist.
- The important areas performance consultants focus on, including ribs, glutes, and hamstrings.
Resources + Links:
The Soccer Players’ Tug of War by Mike Cantrell
Learn more at https://www.priperformance.com/
https://www-posturalrestoration-com-files.s3.amazonaws.com/cf9e-03024467-The%20Soccer%20Players%20Tug%20of%20War%20(Final).pdf?versionId=5g1qc1JJpZ4uMF5qPewND7RFRJ0EyRV3,
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What are the strategies a professional performance consultant utilizes for high performance athletes? Sharing his expertise of PRI and pain treatment in the high performance world is Mike Cantrell, joining us as this week’s special guest! Mike is a physical therapist and movement & performance consultant with his own business, Applied Integration Consulting alongside James Anderson. In today’s episode, we’ll discuss with him what PRI is, how he got involved, and how it has changed and evolved over the years before we dive into symmetry and asymmetry in athletes.
We’ll then take a look into a case study of athletic pubalgia for recommended testing and treatment strategies from the perspective of an expert. What are polyarticular chains and how do you activate them? Why is it important to master control over your muscles as an athlete? What are the most significant areas for pelvic positioning? Join us for a treasure trove of learning about high performance athletics from a raw and real technical PRI lens!
00:00 Introducing guest Mike Cantrell, a physical therapist and movement & performance consultant dedicated to helping individuals with chronic pain!
02:50 What led you to PRI?
07:35 What did you do after teaching at the institute?
09:10 What is PRI?
11:45 What are polyarticular chains?
13:15 How do you measure the symmetry of the pelvis?
16:20 Strategizing objective testing for treatments.
19:10 How do you assess pelvic position?
23:50 What would you do for a treatment strategy?
27:15 What do you look for in glutes?
32:35 How important are ribs to pelvic position?
35:45 Understanding athletic pubalgia.
39:40 What areas would you focus on in a large team?
40:55 Why is knowing how to shut off your muscles so important?
44:55 How does a person’s mental wellness relate to their physical therapy?
46:35 How and why is PRI evolving?
47:55 What services do you offer at your business, Applied Integration Consulting?
52:40 What do you have coming up that you’re excited for?
55:35 What beliefs have changed over time in your field?
58:00 Where can people find all your articles?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- How the game has changed since the 70s to today.
- How to cultivate higher performance through environment and culture as a coach.
- The culture of coaching in Europe versus coaching in North America.
- Examining the long-term athletic development model in Europe and North America, and how we can improve it.
- Advice for aspiring coaches, hockey parents, and young athletes.
Resources + Links:
Find Dave’s books on Amazon
The King of Russia
Loose Pucks and Ice Bags
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
How do you become an elite hockey coach? You learn from the best! In this episode, we have Coach Dave King, an ice hockey coach with a lifetime's worth of experience and championships! We’ll journey through five decades of hockey, as we look at how coaching has changed and the evolution of the game itself. We also talk about differences between European and North American hockey from the perspective of a coach who has coached in five countries worldwide. What was it like coaching against the Russians in the 80s? What has been the effect of globalization on the game? What is the difference in technique and culture?
Then, we examine LTAD models from Europe and North America, and what we can do to improve our models for high performance players. If it’s advice you’re after, we’ve got you covered there: We’ll hear how to cultivate young players, build environment and culture, and develop trust and rapport from a coach who’s already done it all. See what has changed in 50 years from the eyes of a veteran coach still dedicated to the game!
0:00:00: Meet today’s special guest, Dave King. Dave has been an ice hockey coach since 1977, a NHL coach for 15 years, and has coached in five different countries worldwide!
0:02:55 What kept you coaching for so long?
0:04:10 How did you first get involved with coaching?
0:05:55 How did your background in high school teaching prepare you for coaching?
0:07:10 Who were your mentors?
0:08:55 How has the game evolved over five decades?
0:12:30 How has coaching changed?
0:16:40 The difference in technique between North America and Russian in the 80s.
0:20:25 When did the difference start to emerge in North America?
0:22:40 What were your relations with Russian coaches back then?
0:24:45 What are the differences between a North American game and a European game?
0:28:30 What are the four playing rules?
0:31:25 Are there any differences between LTAD models in Europe and North America?
0:34:50 Is it possible to have a club model in the US?
0:37:55 Improving the North American LTAD model.
0:39:15 Can we teach hockey sense?
0:41:20 How do you teach hockey sense?
0:44:35 What are some of your fondest memories?
0:46:15 What is the importance of cultivating environment and culture as a coach?
0:48:50 What are some qualities of an elite level coach?
0:54:30 The social aspect of coaching.
0:56:55 Why is it better to develop trust between a coach and a player?
1:00:25 How did you create a work-life balance?
1:03:55 What is your advice for young, aspiring coaches interested in high performance hockey?
1:07:20 What is your advice for hockey parents?
1:10:00 What about for young players?
1:13:35 Why did you write your book, and what is it about?
1:16:45 How do you want to be remembered?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
The position of the goaltender and its unique characteristics in relation to other positions.
Training and preparation techniques for goaltenders.
The demands and injuries goaltenders regularly face.
Advice for young and aspiring goaltenders.
Resources + Links:
Learn more on Maria’s website
https://www.goalietrainingpro.com
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What does the future of goaltending look like? To find out, we’ve invited Maria Mountain, a performance coach, exercise physiologist, and the founder of Goalie Training Pro! Through her online business, Maria has helped hockey goaltenders from around the world train smarter and perform better. She will be sharing her wealth of knowledge on all things goaltending as we discuss the position of the goaltender from a coaching perspective.
We’ll explore the unique demands and biomechanics of goaltending, the evolution behind the position and where we think it’s heading, training and preparation techniques for goaltenders, and even more. We’ve got advice any young or aspiring goaltender won’t want to miss out on as we explore the qualities, programs, and skill sets it takes to become an elite goalie. Join in and become a part of the future of goaltending today!
00:00 Welcome today’s special guest, Maria Mountain, a performance coach and business owner training hockey goaltenders all around the world!
01:25 What drew you to goaltending?
04:25 What was your experience studying science and kinesiology?
07:45 How did it help you form connections?
10:00 Did your master’s help you in your practice?
11:25 The biomechanical differences between goaltending and other positions.
14:35 Do you believe in goalie specific training?
15:30 What elements would you add or avoid in goalie specific training?
17:15 What is your opinion on squatting?
19:30 How do you value and objectify position?
22:40 What methods do you use for pelvic position?
26:00 The recent rise of FAI (femoroacetabular impingement).
29:10 How are the volume of games affecting this?
31:35 What would you add to a young goalie’s in season program?
34:20 Do you use video as a tool for biomechanical analysis?
36:20 What are three qualities that elite goaltenders possess?
39:50 What are the most common mistakes you see young goalies make?
42:10 How will the goaltender position evolve in the future?
45:05 Have you experimented with vision training in your programs?
46:20 Using virtual reality for hockey drills.
48:55 How much value do you place in strength and skill work?
51:45 Who does Goalie Training Pro serve?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- A behind the scenes look into the daily life and duties of a goaltending coach.
- The qualities and skills that make up a goaltender.
- What has changed in the game since the 90’s and early 2000’s.
- How to build trust and culture within your team as a coach.
Resources + Links:
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What does the game look like from a goalie coach’s eyes? Today, we are joined by Sean Burke, a National Hockey League veteran of 18 seasons and the current director of goaltending for the Montreal Canadiens! He’ll be sharing his experience and expertise on goalie coaching and goaltending. Who were his mentors, and how did he apply what he learned from them into his teachings? What were the qualities he focused on training as a goaltender? How has the game changed and evolved since the 90’s and early 2000’s?
We’ll talk about his transition into coaching, the hip injuries he sustained from goaltending, as well as his approach to building trust and culture around his athletes. Then, we pivot into the management side of things to discuss hiring staff, the recent boom of technology, strength & conditioning training, and even more. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or fan, there’s something for everyone in this episode to enjoy, so join in and learn what it takes to stay in the game!
00:00 Meet 18 year NHL veteran, Sean Burke, the current director of goaltending for the Montreal Canadiens!
01:30 What qualities kept you in the game for so long?
02:40 What qualities did your parents instill in you from a young age?
04:40 How has goaltending changed since the 90’s and 2000’s?
07:20 Understanding the technical side of the game.
10:30 What qualities did you value in a goalie coach?
12:25 What was your process with strength and conditioning during the 90’s?
14:50 As a goaltender, what did you focus on training?
16:10 How did you approach the off-season?
18:15 Hip injuries and goaltending.
21:15 What made you pursue coaching?
23:05 How do you build trust with your goaltenders?
24:45 A behind the scenes look into the day of a goaltending coach.
27:45 What was your experience as a management coach?
30:00 What do you look for when hiring staff?
33:30 How do you approach coaching younger generations of athletes?
35:50 Striking a work-life balance.
37:35 When did you start playing the guitar?
41:00 What is your opinion on the recent rise of technology and analytics?
44:35 What was it like working with demanding coaches?
46:10 How should we approach conditioning tests?
48:25 What was your experience at the 2018 Spengler Cup?
51:10 How do you want to be remembered?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The impact and influence of mentors such as Arthur Boyle and Jack Parker.
- Why forming relationships and developing people skills as a coach is important.
- The key to coaching strong, committed athletes.
Resources + Links:
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
How do you make your impact as a coach? Our guest today is Michael Boyle, co-founder of MBSC, one of the first for-profit strength & conditioning companies in the world. Coach Boyle is a teacher, trainer, and coach who stands as an expert in the field of strength & conditioning. In this episode, we’ll be discussing his journey as a coach, how he got involved in hockey, and the teachings he has learned over the years. We dive into the impact of iconic mentors such as his father, Arthur Boyle, and Coach Jack Parker, to see how their influences shaped him as both a person and as a coach. Then, we will take a look at his experience with the US women’s national team and how he approached their training. How do you find the truly committed players? What are the skills coaches need to have outside of data? What is the true importance of showing up prepared? Get ready for countless lessons from a legend born from legends and learn how to take your performance to the next level!
0:00:00 Say hello to special guest Michael Boyle, teacher, trainer, strength & conditioning coach, and co-founder of MBSC!
0:03:00 How did you get involved in coaching? Would you say coaching ran in your blood?
0:07:25 How did your experience at Springfield change you?
0:09:15 If you had started off as a coach right now, what would have changed about your experience?
0:12:35 What did your experience lifting with all these pro athletes teach you?
0:15:30 How did you end up at Boston University?
0:18:10 How did you get involved with the hockey team?
0:24:00 What did you learn from working with Coach Jack Parker?
0:28:05 What kind of guy was Coach Parker? What was the side to him nobody really knew?
0:31:15 The impact of Coach Parker.
0:34:30 How was your father similar to Jack Parker?
0:36:20 How did you get involved in USA hockey?
0:40:00 The value of creating relationships and forming connections.
0:43:20 Why is having people skills as a coach so important?
0:46:40 What challenges did you face from administration?
0:50:55 What were your goals for measuring progress?
0:54:45 How to weed out the uncommitted players.
0:56:10 Which way do you think the pendulum has swung, and how can we achieve an equilibrium?
1:00:50 What is the current fascination with data?
1:03:10 Showing up prepared to show up better.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The qualities that make up a great coach, leader, and role model.
- What it was like playing with Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier.
- What coaches need to be aware of, and the difficulties they can face.
- The key to creating a healthy, balanced team culture.
- Advice for young hockey players and aspiring coaches.
Resources + Links:
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Do you want a real, behind the scenes look into the world of coaching? Then you’re in luck! Today, we have Craig MacTavish, a former National Hockey League player turned head coach who played 17 NHL seasons and won the Stanley Cup four times! We will be discussing his playing career as well as his transition into coaching. Who were the mentors he looked up to and learned the most from? What did his team cultures look like and what was special about them? How does he approach coaching on ice as well as from an analytics perspective?
We’ll explore what it was like to play and work alongside legends such as Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier. Then, MacTavish shares his invaluable advice for aspiring coaches and what they need to be aware of, as well as advice for young hockey players. Whether you’re a veteran coach or just starting out, you’ll be able to take away something new from this episode!
0:00:00 Meet Craig MacTavish, a former NHL player & head coach with 17 seasons under his belt!
0:01:25 What qualities led to your longevity?
0:03:15 What were the qualities that got you to the National Hockey League?
0:07:40 Who were your mentors in your early career? What made you look up to them?
0:09:30 What mentors did you learn to emulate?
0:12:35 Taking a look back at the Russian style of play.
0:16:30 What was it like playing with Wayne Gretzky?
0:19:40 Is it possible to teach hockey sense?
0:21:55 What made Mark Messier such a good leader?
0:23:55 What was special about your team’s culture to be able to win the Stanley Cup four times?
0:27:50 How has the game changed since your last NHL game?
0:29:30 What led you into coaching?
0:34:20 The three pillars of Oilers culture.
0:37:45 What are your passions away from hockey?
0:38:50 What are some of the difficulties coaches face?
0:41:15 How do you approach coaching the newer generations?
0:44:50 Taking the directive approach.
0:47:20 Where do analytics and metrics fit into your decision making?
0:51:45 What advice do you have for young, aspiring coaches?
0:53:40 What do people need to realize about coaching?
0:56:15 What advice do you have for young hockey players?
0:58:10 What is coming up next for you?
0:58:50 How would you want to be remembered?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- How to build culture around self-sufficiency, accountability, and education.
- The physiology and importance of fascial health and performance.
- The three step approach to training fascia.
- What goes into effective strength & conditioning training models.
Resources + Links:
https://coachtube.com/course/health-fitness/understanding-fascia-and-its-role-in-performance/11920886
https://www.eldoamethod.com/about-eldoa-method
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Do you want to know what goes into peak performance on a biological, physiological scale? Our guest today is speaker, consultant, and performance coach, Brijesh Patel, the current associate athletic director and director of athletic performance at Quinnipiac University. He works with men’s and women’s basketball as well as men’s and women’s ice hockey to create self-sufficient cultures built around accountability and education. We’ll take a look into strength & conditioning models on a collegiate level, and how Coach Patel optimizes performance from his student athletes. Then, it’s time to explore all things related to the physiology behind fascia: What is it? What does it do? Why is it important? And how can we train it? For the athletes and coaches looking to take it to the next level, this is the episode for you!
0:00:00 Meet Coach Brijesh Patel, associate athletic director and director of athletic performance at Quinnipiac University!
0:01:55 What does a day in your life look like?
0:04:20 What is your philosophy with your athletes?
0:06:50 Why should you avoid being spread thin?
0:08:50 How do you create individualized programs?
0:11:30 Building a self-sufficient culture.
0:14:50 How do you approach your student athletes with your mission statement?
0:18:25 The plants versus machines analogy.
0:21:55 Why does position matter?
0:23:25 Where does position start?
0:26:40 What is fascia and why is it important?
0:29:30 Why is fascia an obstacle to position?
0:31:35 How do you measure those differences and how long do they last for?
0:34:10 How does fascial impairment affect the lymphatic system?
0:37:15 What are the elastic and plastic properties of fascia?
0:39:00 How to approach fascial preparation.
0:42:35 What is ELDOA?
0:44:10 How do you increase load through the fascial system?
0:45:40 Improving sequence and pairs.
0:47:45 How do you use eccentric and isometrics?
0:49:15 What is the time interval for your student athletes?
0:51:25 What is the last step of fascial preparation?
0:53:20 How do you periodize the in season model?
0:56:45 How about off season?
0:59:35 What do you recommend for fascial health?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Advice for young hockey players, parents, and young coaches.
- The qualities that elevate coaches and players beyond.
- What the translation from player to coach looks like.
Resources + Links:
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
If you’re wondering what defines a good coach from the rest, look no further than this episode! Today, our guest is the player turned assistant coach of the Cleveland Monsters, Mark Letestu. With experience in over 800 games, Mark has valuable advice to share for youth hockey players, hockey parents, as well as parents who are interested in coaching. We’ll talk about his transition into coaching and the shifts that have been made in the game since he was a player. Then, we explore the qualities he looks for in players and coaches that makes them stand out. Join us and learn how to take your coaching skills to the next level!
00:00 Meet the assistant coach of the Cleveland Monsters who has played over 800 games, Mark Letestu!
01:30 What are the struggles for a first year coach?
03:30 Who were the coaches you look up to and aspire to be?
06:50 How do you communicate with younger players?
08:55 Why do you stay away from social media?
10:50 What are the qualities you see that bring players to the next level?
13:25 What makes Connor McDavid so special?
15:00 What makes a good performance and strength coach?
18:25 Valuing metrics.
20:45 At the end of your career, how did players communicate with technology?
23:40 In season versus off season.
26:36 How did you prepare for the off season? What would you have changed looking back now?
28:45 What qualities did you look for in gyms?
30:40 Finding the right program for you.
32:15 What is your advice for young hockey players?
36:35 What advice do you have for hockey parents?
37:40 AAA game schedules.
39:30 What do you think about summer hockey?
41:50 How has summer hockey shifted in a more competitive sense?
43:10 What would your advice be for a young father wanting to get involved in coaching?
44:50 What is your end goal?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- How to see the game from a scouting perspective.
- The critical skills and qualities a scout looks for in a player.
- Advice for young, aspiring scouts.
- What human components can and cannot be measured.
Resources + Links:
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Do you want to know how a veteran NHL scout developed his lens? Today, we have the director of player personnel for the Las Vegas Golden Knights, Vaughn Karpan, a player turned scout with over 30 years of scouting experience. We’ll be discussing the lessons he has learned over his career, starting from his early years of mentorship to the present day. We also talk about the qualities a scout looks for in a player, both on the ice and off it. Then, we explore the components and skills that can and cannot be measured by data alone. If you’re an aspiring scout, you won’t want to miss your chance to learn what it really takes to be a scout for the NHL!
0:00:00 Joining us today is the player turned scout and current Las Vegas Golden Knights director of player personnel, Vaughn Karpan!
0:01:20 What led you to scouting?
0:05:10 Who were your mentors in your early career? What qualities did you admire about them?
0:08:40 What does a typical week look like for you?
0:10:45 From a scouting perspective, how has the landscape of talent evaluation changed?
0:15:00 What do you look for when hiring a staff member?
0:18:25 How have you evolved your lens?
0:22:25 How does technology play into talent identification?
0:26:20 Relying on your gut instinct.
0:29:30 How is skating evaluated as a skill? How does it interact with game speed?
0:32:45 What is critical for a player to have?
0:35:15 Playing the game versus understanding the game.
0:37:20 What have we lost sight of in sports?
0:40:30 As a scout, What does a combine mean to you?
0:44:05 What components cannot be measured by a scoreboard?
0:48:10 Are there qualities that you look for off ice?
0:50:50 What advice do you have for aspiring scouts?
0:53:50 Why is scouting not for everyone?
0:57:25 What does it take to be a good scout?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- A behind the scenes look into the life of a high performance coach.
- Advice for aspiring coaches, young athletes, and youth hockey parents.
- What key qualities a sports science staff needs to have.
- How to find joy in life and in the game.
Resources + Links:
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Have you ever wanted a behind the scenes look into the life of one of the best coaches in the history of the game? In this episode, we’re joined by Mike Babcock, head coach of the University of Saskatchewan men’s hockey team and the winningest coach in Detroit Red Wings history. We’ll be going behind the scenes of a national hockey league coach’s day for fresh perspectives and quality advice all aspiring coaches or young players need to hear. Then, we discuss what characteristics are important for a sports scientist to have, as well as key elements any coaching staff needs. Our talk will take us back in time to Coach Babcock’s early career, and all the way to today as we chase the story behind his success. Join us and find out what the joy of the game means to a high performance coach!
00:00 Meet Coach Mike Babcock, one of the best coaches in the game!
02:30 Why are you fond of the early start of your career?
04:35 Who were your mentors?
07:40 As a young coach, how did you build culture with your teams?
09:30 What were lessons from previous experiences that you drew from as a national league coach?
12:10 What do your days look like behind the scenes?
14:40 Finding a work-life balance.
17:20 How did you build and re-tool the Detroit Red Wings?
18:40 What were some of the tangibles and intangibles of the Red Wings’ success?
22:10 What does it mean to embrace the monotony of being a pro?
24:40 Did you take a cooperative approach in your early coaching?
27:05 How have players changed, and how has your approach changed with them?
30:40 What are good qualities for a sports scientist or a strength coach?
34:00 Why is communication within a team so important?
36:50 Persuasion versus informing messages.
38:25 What do you not find value in?
40:05 What are the critical anchor points for you?
42:10 Knowing when to experiment.
44:15 Which tests do you prefer?
46:00 What advice would you give to an aspiring coach?
49:40 How about for a young player?
51:10 What advice do you have for youth hockey parents?
52:45 What are your thoughts on the development of youth hockey?
55:10 A day in the life of a head coach.
55:15 What is coming up next for you?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- The pillars behind the Pioneer health and performance model.
- The qualities, objectives, and evaluations coaching staffing should have.
- The advantages of using and mastering technology.
- How to monitor and utilize data for maximum output.
Resources + Links:
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Are you ready to take your performance model to the next level? Our guest today is the senior associate athletic director of sports performance at the University of Denver, Matt Shaw. He’s here to discuss the incredible Pioneer health and performance model before deep diving into monitoring and technology. First, we get a closer look into the pillars of the PHP model and the process behind it. Then, we want to explore the advantages and efficiency of technology such as Catapult, force plates, and GymAware, and the focus points Matt looks out for as a coach for student athletes. Are you using technology to its fullest potential? Do you want to know what qualities you should look for in your department staff? This episode has all of your answers and more, so come and learn how to play harder and perform higher!
0:00:00 Meet Matt, the University of Denver’s senior associate athletic director of sports performance.
0:01:20 What did you do before your current position?
0:04:00 How involved on the floor are you within your position?
0:05:25 Does your background help you have better communication now?
0:07:30 What are the main pillars of the PHP model?
0:09:40 How are these pillars integrated directly to students?
0:12:05 What were the mistakes you made and what were the lessons you learned?
0:14:15 How did you expand your staffing?
0:16:50 Building up the model.
0:19:35 What are the qualities you look for when hiring?
0:23:50 How do the members of the model communicate? How do you communicate within it?
0:26:25 How are you growing the model?
0:29:10 What does your position entail?
0:32:00 How do you evaluate your staff?
0:34:50 How does your background factor into evaluations?
0:37:10 What drives your technological investments?
0:41:50 The advantages of knowing how to use technology.
0:46:40 What technology do you currently use?
0:48:10 What do you focus on when using force plates?
0:52:30 How do you track and use data?
0:54:20 What were the interventions you made using GPS?
0:58:30 How do you use Catapult to reinforce practices?
1:02:35 What do you hone in on concerning return to play?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Tools you need to build, develop, and coach elite teams.
- The purpose and intent of combines.
- Fundamentals behind coaching philosophy.
Resources + Links:
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Have you ever wondered what the key to successful coaching looks like? Today, we’re joined by Reg Grant, certified strength & conditioning coach, former New York Rangers performance director, and current director of human performance at Holy Main Hospital. With his seasoned background, he shares with us the lessons he’s learned and the mistakes he’s made from his experiences as both president of the SCAPH and a developer of the NHL Entry Draft combine. Then, we dive into combines and what they are and what purpose they serve. We discuss how he has navigated change during critical moments of his career, constructed his high performance model, and cultivated his athletes both on and off the ice throughout the years. Whether you’re an aspiring coach or high performance athlete, this episode has something of value for everyone!
00:00:00 Meet Reg Grant, certified strength & conditioning coach, former New York Rangers performance director, and current director of human performance at Holy Main Hospital.
00:02:35 Is it rare to stay at the same club for over a decade?
00:04:10 What do you think is the secret to long term success?
00:07:30 What was your first year with the Rangers like?
00:12:25 How to approach coaching for young athletes.
00:14:50 Would you take the same approach today?
00:16:45 For your first year, how did you run your test?
00:21:50 The importance of having everyone on the same page.
00:25:40 How did you navigate change?
00:28:35 What is essential for aspiring coaches to understand?
00:31:45 How did you create your performance model?
00:35:55 How did development camps help evolve that model?
00:38:25 What are your feelings about technology and trusting your gut?
00:43:05 Reevaluating for the human component.
00:47:15 What is critical to remember for coaching philosophy?
00:48:45 What was your time as the president of the SCAPH like?
00:52:30 How about as one of the developers of the current NHL Entry Draft combine?
00:56:15 What would your elevator pitch for combines be?
01:00:45 What are your responsibilities as director of human performance, and how do your past experiences help you now?
01:04:15 How to start sustaining and stacking healthy habits.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- Joel’s experience transitioning from working at the University level, to the Edmonton Oilers.
- The process and testing that went into his published articles.
- Joel’s advice for putting On Ice Testing into practice with a team.
- Benefits of stair conditioning for hockey players.
Resources + Links:
Resources from today’s guest, Joel Jackson:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8439675/ https://www.prohockeystrength.com/public/Movin-on-Up-Stair-Conditioning-for-Hockey-Players.cfm
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
Let’s talk On Ice Testing! In this episode, I’m joined by Assistant Strength and Conditioning coach of the Edmonton Oilers, Joel Jackson. Joel has recently entered his first season in the National Hockey League after spending 9 years as a Strength and Conditioning Coach for the University of Alberta Golden Bears and Pandas. He completed his Masters Degree from the University of Alberta in 2015. Prior to working there, he spent 5 years competing with the Augustana Vikings men's hockey program. Joel is here sharing his experience and knowledge about testing, on and off the ice. From research for articles we discuss in this episode, to his work as a coach, Joel is sharing all things strength, conditioning, and on ice testing.
02:15 Making the transition from (University) to working with the Oilers.
04:30 Differences in training and managing stress with a more demanding season.
06:50 What are your responsibilities and how does communication flow as an assistant strength and conditioning coach?
09:00 What elements do you feel make a good test off the ice?
17:15 How are baseline measures useful when players are coming back from injuries?
22:00 The process of research, testing, and publishing for Development and Reliability of a 7x15m Repeated On Ice Sprint Test of Female Hockey Players. (Direct link included under Resources and Links)
25:00 What was the process of testing with the Female Hockey team at the U of A?
30:00 Is this type of On Ice testing something you did with the University of Alberta?
33:50 Recommendations for implementing this On Ice testing with a team.
41:15 The inspiration behind Joel’s SCAPH article, Movin’ On Up: Stair Conditioning for Hockey Players.
46:00 What is dynamic correspondence?
50:50 How would you periodize your stair work?
55:15 Thoughts on jump training and plyometrics.
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- What led Coach Dan Pfaff to become a High Performance Coach.
- Tips from Coach Pfaff’s vast experience over multiple sports.
- How to communicate with a large team supporting your athlete(s).
- How Coach Pfaff would approach creating a program for Hockey Players.
Resources + Links:
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
I have the privilege of taking a peek behind the curtain of how a High Performance Legend was made! In this episode, I’m joined by two friends and mentors, Coach Dan Pfaff and Dr. Fergus Connolly. Head coach at ALTIS, Coach Dan Pfaff has a long list of accolades to go with his experience having tutored 49 Olympians, 9 medalists, 51 World Championship competitors, 5 world record holders, and directed athletes to 57 national records across a multitude of events. Dr. Fergus Connolly is back for another episode with us here at HPH, and is bringing his perspective with decades in High Performance as a Performance Director, Author, Business Owner and consultant. Tune in to hear us dive into all things High Performance, and advice Coach Pfaff has for young coaches entering the industry today!
02:00 Did you always know growing up that you wanted to be a coach?
04:30 Learning to coach through the desire to improve in Baseball as a kid.
07:20 What were the advantages of not having technology at your fingertips as you began as a coach?
10:00 Benefits of perspective when some get stuck in being solely process focused or solely outcome focused.
12:15 Would you be as good of a coach if you were starting as a new coach today?
13:40 How would you filter the noise as a young coach today?
15:00 Lessons learned from coaching in different cultures around the world.
19:15 What are some of the biggest challenges working with medical personnel?
26:00 What are the qualities you look for when hiring Physical Therapists and ATC’s?
27:50 Advice for balancing life and coaching.
31:20 Do you think your diversity of experiences in different sports has been a big part of your success?
35:40 When were you first introduced to a High Performance model?
39:50 Where does measuring and monitoring fuse with the art?
47:30 How do you communicate to all the members at (Altis)?
49:40 Reviewing film and miss-communication with a paralympic athlete.
56:15 Mistakes hockey players make with skates, and playing with equipment to affect biomechanics.
01:00:50 How would you make a program for a hockey player?
01:04:00 Where do you see the profession of High Performance going in the future?
In This Episode, You Will Learn:
- What science is, and what it isn’t. (Thoughts and emotions aside.)
- How we can lead as critical thinkers, and whether that is a skill that can be taught.
- Whether biases have a benefit.
- Our esteemed guests approach sports science and decision making.
Resources + Links:
Check out this podcast episode, that inspired today’s conversation:
Resilient Performance Podcast - Trust the Science episode
Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov
Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast
Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast
Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/
Check out Anthony’s Books
Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions
The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players
Show Notes:
What is science? Maybe a better question to ask is “What ISN’T science?” In some conversations the term science seems to have changed or lost its meaning altogether. In this episode, I’m honored to be joined by two incredible guests, Doug Kechijian and Fergus Connolly.
Performance Coach and Business Advisor, Fergus Connollly and Physical Therapist, Strength Coach, and business owner at Resilient Performance Training Systems, Doug Kechijian. In this premier episode of The High Performance Hockey Podcast, we dive into sports science, critical thinking, and the blend of research, art, and science in the world of coaching. It’s not just hockey, and it’s not simply philosophy either. We’re having a true discussion about thought, biases, and science. In life, business, and sports. We are so glad you’re joining us for this first episode of the show. Please subscribe and follow us on social media to continue the conversation!
02:00 What is science meant to be?
07:15 Minimizing biases with a scientific approach.
11:40 What are limitations to science?
17:00 What is sports science in your own words?
20:50 Measuring what is meaningful vs measuring simply because we have technology.
24:15 Do you believe critical thinking can be taught in Universities?
33:30 Benefits of listening to different arguments and coming to your own conclusions.
38:20 The balance of art, experience, and science in coaching.
43:00 Do biases have a survival benefit?
48:30 Should you ever do anything that there isn’t research for?
50:40 From a performance perspective, what is your hierarchical approach to making decisions?
Welcome to The High Performance Hockey Podcast!
Hosted by former player, performance coach, author and speaker Anthony Donskov, the HPH podcast is a bi-weekly show that explores the science, practice and pedagogy of high performers in the sport of ice hockey.
Follow us on Instagram | @anthonydonskov
Learn more on our website
https://www.donskovsc.com/