Breakaway, The Minor Hockey Podcast: Recent Episodes
Ontario Minor Hockey Association
The Ontario Minor Hockey Association's Breakaway, The Minor Hockey Podcast puts you with some of the best and brightest minds in the game today. Each week, Aaron Wilbur sits down with the leaders of hockey to discuss everything from scoring more goals to how to grow the game.
“I always say that leadership is an action, not a position.”
Tyler McGregor wants to make sure that hockey is in a better place when he’s done with the game.
Guest Bio: Tyler McGregor is the captain of Team Canada's Para Hockey (formerly Sledge Hockey) team, where he has competed internationally since 2012 and is now a three-time World Champion and three-time Paralympic medalist.
Learn more: https://www.omha.net/news_article/show/1319369
“Not everyone is built the same way so not everyone skates the same way.”
That’s the philosophy of Corey McNabb, the Director, NextGen Development with Hockey Canada. He’s worked with teams and players of all ages and levels, and has come to understand that players show their skills in ways that work for them.
“It comes down to giving the kids the tools. As they go through the system, to me, your job as a coach is to teach them the when, the how and the why,” said McNabb.
Learn more: https://www.omha.net/news_article/show/1310068
Coaches can come up with all of the Xs and Os or pour over video, but a large part of what it means to be a leader on a minor hockey team is creating those valuable connections with your players.
Warning: This episode contains strong language.
Guest Bio: Dr. Jody Carrington is a child psychologist and published author.
Learn more: https://www.omha.net/news_article/show/1304895
Practice time can be some of the most valuable in minor hockey. It gives your team the chance to work on skills, understand new concepts and put in the effort that will show during games. It’s more than just drills - those are part of the environment you are looking to create. Practice is about coming to the rink prepared to be in an atmosphere for learning.
Guest Bio: TJ Manastersky is the head coach of the Brock University men’s hockey team that finished at the top of the OUA West division in U-Sports this season.
Learn more: https://www.omha.net/news_article/show/1302300
With playoff season here, parents and players are well established in their routines and hockey schedules. However, no matter how much time before heading to the rink, busy hockey families always need to find time to have the right pre-game meal to be able to fuel performance on the ice.
Guest Bio: Seanna Thomas is a Nutrition Consultant, Mom to 3 active kids, and founder of Hockey Snacks Inc., where she provides nutrition information for young athletes, sports teams, families, and organizations. Seanna regularly appears on CP24 Breakfast, & is a contributor to Triathlon Magazine Canada, as well as multiple other publications. Seanna focuses on whole foods with a spotlight on creating realistic healthy habits. She can be found on Facebook, Instagram, and seannathomas.com. In her downtime, she enjoys being outdoors with her family and relaxing at home with her husband and a well-deserved glass of wine (and maybe watching a hockey game).
Learn more: https://www.omha.net/news_article/show/1299997
There is more that comes with coaching than the Xs and Os. And coaches shouldn’t feel the pressure to take on building their toolbox all on their own. Coaches can constantly be learning from each other, not just within their own sport, but from around the coaching community.
Guest Bio: Wayne Parro is the Director of International Programs with the Coaching Association of Canada. He is a Graduate of the National Coaching Institute (NCI), a Coach Mentor to coaches in the Advanced Coaching Diploma (ACD) Program and the CAC liaison for various multi-sport organizations in Canada. He developed and executed coach support roles with Canadian Major Games Organizations and was the Lead Instructor with the Toronto Blue Jays Baseball Academy, and coached both the Senior and Junior Baseball Canada’s Women’s Team and was an Assistant Coach with the York University Men’s hockey program.
Hockey parents want their child to be safe when they are on the ice having fun, and know the amount of equipment that comes with participating in the sport.
Unfortunately, there can be a tragic incident that reminds us all how important it is wear all of the proper equipment while playing our great game. These can serve as a valuable message to all hockey participants about the importance of wearing the mandated equipment.
The number one reason why kids play sports is not to win – it’s because it is fun. It’s our job as leaders in minor hockey to create a safe, welcoming and positive experience for all participants, both kids and adults alike. The OMHA’s longstanding partnership with Respect Group aims to educate everyone involved in the game on the proper behaviours that are expected as well as promoting the life skills and positive benefits of minor hockey.
Guest Bio: Sheldon Kennedy won a Memorial Cup, World Junior Gold Medal and skated for three teams in his eight-year NHL career. He is best known for his courageous decision to charge his Major Junior Hockey league coach with sexual assault for the abuse he suffered over a five year period while a teenager under his care. He has been instrumental in bringing governments, public and private sector partners together to work collaboratively to influence policy change and improve the way child abuse is handled. He is also the Co-Founder of Respect Group, which provides empowering online abuse, bullying and harassment prevention education to sport organizations, schools and the workplace. Respect Group has currently certified over 2 million Canadians.
It is often assumed that playing in an older age group means that your child will become even more advanced in their skill development. However, that well-meaning thought can actually have negative side effects.
We take a look at all of the programs and initiatives being delivered this season to help our hockey families and associations.
Guest Bio: Michael Dundas is the Manager of Hockey Development with the OMHA
BONUS EPISODE! As first generation Canadians who grew up in households where academics were the first priority, Vinay and Parul Intwala refer to their family as “the Accidental Hockey Family”. This is their story.
In the season's final episode, we look back on the closing weeks on Championships and upcoming Evaluations.
Guest Bio: Michael Dundas is the Manager of Hockey Development with the OMHA
Growing the game of hockey to reach new families will only benefit the sport. That’s the sentiment of hockey bodies around the world.
When it was realized that it was no longer automatic that all kids play hockey in the winter, Andresen knew Minnesota Hockey had to do something to attract those new players.
Guest Bio: Glen Andresen is the Executive Director of Minnesota Hockey.
Guest Bio: Nick Buonocore is a parent, volunteer coach, and former collegiate athlete with a unique, first-hand perspective on the changing culture of today’s youth sports industry. He established The Reformed Sports Project to promote a healthy and holistic approach in all areas of sport, through education and advocacy. Today, he is a leading voice in youth sports reform.
Teams are in the thick of Qualifiers for OMHA Championships presented by Egg Farmers of Ontario. Between those new weekends, pilot projects and engaging with our Associatons, parents and players, let's check in on where we are at right now in the regular season.
Guest Bio: Michael Dundas is the Manager of Hockey Development with the OMHA
Why do we talk to ourselves, how can we talk to ourselves better, and how can we use this science to help ourselves, players and teams?
Guest Bio: Ethan Kross founded the Emotion and Self Control Laboratory at the University of Michigan, and his research has been published in Science, The New England Journal of Medicine, and The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, among other peer-reviewed journals. He has participated in policy discussion at the White House and has been interviewed on CBS Evening News, Good Morning America, Anderson Cooper Full Circle, and NPR’s Morning Edition.
Hockey Factories is a unique look behind the curtain of some of the globe’s top hockey development programs. The series travels to Minnesota, British Columbia, Germany, Finland and Sweden to see how these programs are doing it right.
Guest Bio: Matt Dumochelle is the Assistant General Manager of the Leamington Flyers of the GOJHL and the author of Hockey Factories for The Coaches Site.
Ray Ferraro shares his philosophy on player development and how to handle the sometimes-tricky parent-coach relationship.
Guest Bio: Ray Ferraro is a former player and current hockey analyst for the NHL and World Juniors.
In this special excerpt from The Coaches Site's TCS Live conference, Cara Morey discusses grit, why it matters, and how to develop it in your athletes.
Guest Bio: Cara Morey is in her sixth year leading the Princeton women’s hockey program. Since the Ontario product was announced as head coach in June of 2017, the program has won its first ECAC tournament title, won an Ivy League championship, qualified for two NCAA quarterfinals, set the program wins record, and established itself as a weekly inclusion in the national top-10 rankings.
The goaltending position has evolved not just positionally but how coaches utilize them in practice and also how the netminders can approach training and preparation.
Guest Bio: Ryan Daniels is an OMHA grad out of Ajax-Pickering and the current goaltender development coach of the AHL’s Texas Stars. He spent three years as the goaltending coach for the Guelph Storm and three with the Mississauga Steelheads. As a player, Daniels spent time in the ECHL, OHL, Central Hockey League and OJHL.
With a few weeks under every team's belt, let's check in on where they should be at this point of the year and what the rest of the season should look like.
Guest Bio: Michael Dundas is the Manager of Hockey Development at the OMHA
Hockey is for anybody and everybody. How we open the door to new fans is important for any community.
Guest Bio: Rico Phillips grew up in Flint, Michigan and is the Ontario Hockey League's Director of Cultural Diversity and Inclusion.
Hockey is for anybody and everybody. How we open the door to new fans is important for any community.
Guest Bio: Rico Phillips grew up in Flint, Michigan and is the Ontario Hockey League's Director of Cultural Diversity and Inclusion.
You are what you eat. Eat good, feel good.
We know now more than ever about how to maximize our nutrition to fuel our performance. Let's dive deeper into what to focus on before and after your games.
Guest Bio: Seanna Thomas is a Nutrition Consultant, Mom to 3 active kids, and founder of Hockey Snacks Inc., where she provides nutrition information for young athletes, sports teams, families, and organizations.
Players can begin to build their hockey skills on a modified, age-approrpiate ice size - the benefits of U9 and Below programming.
Guest Bio: Michael Dundas is the Manager of Hockey Development at the OMHA
As players and coaches are in the heart of the Evaluations process, we walk through the timeline of what to expect from the first ice session through to naming the roster.
Guest Bio: Michael Dundas is the Manager of Hockey Development at the OMHA
Host Aaron Wilbur of The Coaches Site and Ian Taylor, the Executive Director of the OMHA, catch up after the off-season and chat about the Player Pathways as skaters return to the ice for another year of minor hockey.
While all parents get involved with coaching their kid’s team for all the right reasons, there are times when their hearts may get in the way of doing what’s best for the team as a whole, or even doing what’s best for their child. How do you figure out that balance? Guest Bio: Jay McClement is a retired NHL veteran of 10+ seasons and a Kingston native who returned home to coach his son’s U9 AAA Kingston Jr. Gaels team
Skating has evolved over the years from just a focus on strides to now involving edges, angling, crossovers and so much more. What's the best way for coaches to work with their players to teach this important skill?
Guest Bio: Viktor Kraatz is a former ice dancer who competed in three Olympics
Coaches know the value of practice time. Coming in prepared and with a plan of what you will be teaching can save precious minutes. Practices are where players can learn how to best be effective on the ice.
Guest Bio: Tom Ward is the Head Coach of the Shattuck-St. Mary’s Boys Prep Team in Minnesota.
As players get older, situational awareness becomes more important as part of their Hockey IQ. How can players build this over the years and what can they look for in skill development? Guest Bio: Brendan Taylor is an Assistant Coach with the OHL's Mississauga Steelheads.
It’s a tradition every holiday season for TSN Hockey Insider Darren Dreger. Every year he puts his annual callout for submissions to his Twitter account of backyard hockey rinks from across the country. They come in all shapes and sizes, each with their own personal touch. As the weather gets consistently cold enough for outdoor rink season, Dreger shares how he turned backyard rinks into a passion.
Guest Bio: Darren Dreger, TSN Hockey Insider
Note: This is a re-broadcast of an episode published in March 2021.
Former NHL player Sheldon Kennedy says we need to continue to learn important lessons and do better after former Chicago Blackhawk Kyle Beach recently shared his story about how he had been sexually assaulted by a former video coach with the team more than a decade ago.
Guest Bio: Sheldon Kennedy, Respect Group
Over the last decade, how has the modern NHL player changed? That’s the first question moderator Scott Wheeler, a national reporter with The Athletic covering the NHL Draft and prospects, posed to his elite panel during the Virtual Hockey Summit.
Three unique answers were given from three unique panelists, namely Chris Abbott, GM of Rogle BK in the SHL, Trevor Georgie, president & GM of the QMJHL’s Saint John Sea Dogs, and Pat Malloy, director at the Peak Centre for Human Performance.
Guest Bio: Scott Wheeler, The Athletic national reporter
Coaches are always looking for the best ways to get the most out of their players during practice. Over the course of the season players will use this time to improve on their skills and understand different concepts. One of the ways this is done is through small area games. Adding competition to skill development and practices keeps these drills fresh and players engaged.
Guest Bio: Derek Miller, Ottawa 67’s Director of Player Development and Performance
Team fundraising is a crucial part of minor hockey to help offset some of the costs that come up during the season. From tournament fees to registration, the tried and tested methods of car washes and bottle drives have lasted for years. Over the last two seasons we’ve had to come up with new ways to raise money safely and lots of teams have turned to online platforms like FlipGive that make the process even easier. Guest Bio: Mark Bachman, Founder and CEO of FlipGive
Tryouts and evaluations can be stressful for everyone involved. For players, there is pressure to perform well in a short amount of time in your first time back on the ice after the summer. Coaches need to evaluate a large number of players at the same while parents are hoping for a positive experience for their children. Is there any way to make this easier for everyone? Guest Bio: Chris Knutson, CEO of TeamGenius
We’ve finally hit the day on the calendar we’ve had circled for months - hockey is back! We’re excited as ever to come back to the rink and get back to the game we love. While we are still taking precautions off the ice such as masking as physical distancing in the dressing room, on the ice we are returning to traditional five on five gameplay. Guest Bio: Ian Taylor is the OMHA Executive Director
Hosts Aaron Wilbur and OMHA Executive Director Ian Taylor take a look back at some of their favourite guests and topics from the 2020-2021 season of Breakaway, The Minor Hockey Podcast.
The U7, U9 and U11 Player Pathways create consistency in all programming across the country and a seamless transition for players based on the Long Term Player Development model. The Pathways provide local minor hockey associations a framework of age appropriate development guidelines which includes an optimal seasonal structure.
Guest Bio: Corey McNabb, Manager of Player Development at Hockey Canada
Skill development takes time and creating good habits. Focusing on specific areas of improvement and seeking feedback are two of the top ways to have purposeful improvement. How can players use this time away from the rink to make sure they are practicing the right way?
Guest Bio: Scott Jones, Player Development with Vegas Golden Knights
It’s a tradition every holiday season for TSN Hockey Insider Darren Dreger. Every year he puts his annual callout for submissions to his Twitter account of backyard hockey rinks from across the country. They come in all shapes and sizes, each with their own personal touch.
As we try to squeeze in the last few days of winter and outdoor rink season Dreger shares how he turned backyard rinks into a passion.
Guest Bio: Darren Dreger, TSN Hockey Insider
We’ve been spending the last few weeks in our basements, garages, driveways and backyards working on our stickhandling and shooting as we await a safe return to the rink. As we improve our skills at home the question remains - how can we turn all of this hard work on our backyard rinks back into success in practices and games? Guest Bio: Tim Turk has been an NHL Shooting and Scoring coach for over 25 years
Willie O’Ree changed hockey forever on January 18, 1958 as the first black player in the NHL. His journey of resilience and determination was showcased in the documentary Willie. Now, you can facilitate a meaningful lesson around social justice and racism through Willie’s experience using the Classroom Champions, the NHL and the Willie Doc Team's educator’s guide, a tool for parents, teachers, clubs and coaches. Guest Bio: Bryant McBride, Executive Producer of 'Willie' documentary
Let’s talk about the mental side of sports. If there’s one thing we’ve realized during the last few months is that mental health is so important for our players. Often when we think of the mental aspects of hockey it involves grit, mental toughness and an old school mindset. What happens when the helmets and skates are back in the bag and players are back at home during the current pandemic? The impact of missing sports as we do right now can go far beyond the actual goals and scoreboards. It’s the interacting with teammates, the physical engagement and developing the friendships. Guest Bio: Jessica Renney and Paula McQuaid are certified Canadian psychotherapists and the co-founders MindfulAthletics
When coaches talk about working hard and playing the game the right way, what exactly do they mean? Working hard isn’t just skating around the ice at full speed all game. It is a skill just like stickhandling and shooting. Determining the purpose and focus for your players is what it comes down to. Guest Bio: Andre Tourigny - Ottawa 67's Head Coach, Team Canada World Juniors Head Coach
For a career that has spanned multiple World Junior Championships and countless seasons behind the desk during TSN Tradecentre, Duthie’s experiences have given him a different viewpoint of the minor hockey experience. Duthie’s son played in the OMHA throughout his youth and he can relate to the ups and downs of being a minor hockey parent. Guest Bio: James Duthie, TSN Hockey Host
Mike Weaver never stopped working. At 5’8” and 185 lbs, many touted him as being undersized, especially for a defenceman. Weaver learned what he excelled at what he knew his skillset offered and turned it into 11 NHL seasons manning the blueline. Now retired, the Brampton native has taken on his next challenge as co-founder and CEO of CoachThem. Guest Bio: Mike Weaver, former NHL d-man and now co-founder and CEO of CoachThem
Kids don’t improve based on the outcome of games. They grow in an environment where emphasis is placed on deliberate skill development and hard work. Jamie Storr isn’t afraid to think outside the box when it comes to minor hockey. Guest Bio: Jamie Storr - former NHL goalie and now the co-owner, President and General Manager and Head Coach of the Oakville Blades
It’s the dream of any hockey player around the world: to win the Stanley Cup. Few are lucky enough to call themselves champions and it’s always a special moment when someone from your own backyard gets the honour of raising the trophy above their heads. That’s the case for Aurora native and OMHA grad Barclay Goodrow, capturing Lord Stanley’s mug with the Tampa Bay Lightning a few short weeks ago. Still on the high of winning the Cup, the forward took some time to reflect on his years playing in the OMHA. Guest Bio: Barclay Goodrow, Tampa Bay Lightning forward
Social media has become an everyday part of our lives, even more than that, it’s something that we check every few hours. With the ability to connect with all of our friends and teammates across multiple platforms, sharing pictures, notes and messages has never been easier. However, there is also a negative side to constantly being aware of what is being said about you. Guest Bio: Mike McKenzie, GM and Head Coach of the Kitchener Rangers
All players, parents and coaches can agree that setting achievable goals is important to the overall success of the season. Often times those goals focus on winning a certain amount of games or making it to a certain round of the playoffs but at the minor hockey level, the focus should always be on player development and celebrating skill achievement. Having a method of measuring success beyond wins and losses is an important tool for each team. Guest Bio: Aaron Wilbur, Founder of The Coaches Site
Hockey sense can be described as a group of cognitive skills like situational awareness, decision making and anticipation that players can execute while on the ice. It’s the mental side of the game that can be overlooked when thinking about skill improvement. Guest Bio: Chris Wilson, Hockey Intelligym
The goal of Respect Group is to educate participants on where to draw the line. It provides definition and shows how subtle examples can evolve into problems. They work to identify BAHD Behaviour - Bullying, Abuse, Harassment, Discrimination – with education and tools on how to see it and properly intervene. Guest Bio: Wayne McNeil, co-founder of Respect Group
Over his near 25 years as an NHL head coach, Ken Hitchcock has seen firsthand how every generation of players brings a new set of challenges to a staff. What players want from coaches, how they respond and how best to connect with them has all changed. Guest Bio: Ken Hitchcock, Stanley Cup winning coach
Like all sports, hockey provides an environment where children can be active in a safe, positive environment. Using athletics to build on basic movement skills is crucial for later in life. Understanding what to do, doing it correctly and when the best time for it is can help players avoid injury. It provides a foundation for what can be strengthened as players grow older. Guest Bio: Mark Fitzgerald - former Anaheim Ducks Strength and Conditioning Coach
We all love the sport of hockey. There is no doubt about it. That’s why when a new idea is introduced the process of change can be a challenge. The first step in any change is determining its value and benefits. It needs to start with the purpose or intended advancement. Guest Bio: Scott Smith - President and COO of Hockey Canada
The impact a coach can make on a child’s hockey experience can be life-changing. It is also constantly evolving. It’s not necessarily the rules of the game that have changed but how athletes learn and how we coach has grown over time. Guest Bio: Wayne Parro – Senior Coaching Consultant, Coaching Association of Canada
Over his time as founder of Changing the Game Project, John O'Sullivan has spoken sports scientists and researchers, youth and professional coaches. In his new book Every Moment Matters he explains the common theme of what makes a great coach. Here's a hint: it's more than the wins and losses. Guest Bio: John O'Sullivan, Changing the Game Project
Bob McKenzie has seen and done it all in the hockey world. Now a respected TSN Hockey Insider with over 35 years of experience, McKenzie rewound the clock and took a look back at how the game has changed since he was a minor hockey parent and coach in the OMHA. Guest Bio: Bob McKenzie, TSN Hockey Insider
Youth sports should be a source of positive education and physical activity in a fun, safe environment. Keeping players healthy is a top priority for all officials and associations. Learning more about concussions and brain injuries through Rowan's Law creates awareness for players, parents game officials and team officials to recognize the signs and understand the importance of what's needed to return to play safely. Guest Bio: Michael Dundas is the Manager, Hockey Development at the Ontario Minor Hockey Association
There are so many factors in getting someone on the ice. It takes a commitment from players, coaches and administrators to be willing to dedicate the time and effort necessary to ensure everyone has a positive experience. However, none of that is possible without the most key decision maker – the parents. They impact the choice of registration, making sure their kids get to the rink, and have a voice in all of the major decisions. Parents want to know if their kids are going to be safe and have fun while learning new skills in our great sport. Guest Bio: Aaron Wilbur, Founder of The Coaches Site
A minor hockey coach spends almost as much with the players as their parents do. They hold the keys for unlocking their skill development and teaching them important life lessons. The core of the player-coach relationship is a mutual respect and the knowledge that the coach has the player's back. Guest Bio: Ray Ferraro, TSN Hockey Analyst
Any time you add a simple tweak to a standard drill it gives the opportunity to teach both the offensive and defensive side of the game. On offence, whether you’re working on hands or moves or creativity, kids learn where they have to put the puck so someone can’t take it away. On the other side of the puck, if you don’t have the puck and you’re actually chasing someone, you have to learn how to position your body and your stick so you can get it back. Incorporating those things into practice can translate it into games. Guest Bio: Corey McNabb is the Director of Player Development for Hockey Canada.
Every goal counts the same on the scoreboard. When the puck finds its way into the back of the net, there’s no reason not to celebrate. Coaches and players are always looking for the most efficient ways to score, and working on the most effective methods in practice can help lead to more success on the ice. Guest Bio: Dave Manning is the Head Coach of St. Andrew’s College in Aurora.
Change can be tough to go through. There's a comfort in what's always been done. You need patience to see the results. It's been 10 years since USA Hockey unveiled it's American Development Model for the betterment of the sport to keep kids in the game. It worked - and here's how. Guest Bio: Dave Starman is a pro scout with the Montreal Canadiens, Tier 1 Coaching Development Director for PAL Jr Islanders, and USA Hockey’s Coaching Education Program.
What makes physical literacy unique is the emphasis on developing not only kids’ fundamental movement skills, but also their confidence and joy of moving. The recipe of skills, confidence, and joy is the secret to giving children what they need to be active for life. If your purpose as a minor hockey coach is to help develop “hockey players for life,” you need to develop these three pillars through your coaching. Guest: Richard Monette, Managing Director for Active for Life
As an assistant coach with the Winnipeg Jets, Todd Woodcroft is very familiar with the high-level talent from across the hockey universe. He’s worked in a variety of roles including Assistant Coach with the Swedish, Belarus, Swiss and Canadian Men’s National Teams. Over the years he’s been able to pick up and learn how countries are developing players from a grassroots level. Guest: Todd Woodcroft, Winnipeg Jets Assistant Coach
Today's players consume more information through a screen than ever before. With video being such a prominent resource there is a fine line for minor hockey coaches in terms of using it as a teaching and feedback tool. While different tactics are key to success, it’s all about developing strong instincts. Guest: Aaron Wilbur, The Coaches Site Founder
The past few years Hockey Canada has been changing the look of minor hockey across the country. These Player Pathways aren't a significant change but rather just a different way of looking at age-appropriate skill development. Guest: Paul Carson, Vice-President - Hockey Development with Hockey Canada
Every team wants to win. To win you have to score goals. For players to succeed, they have to be challenged and they have to be continually developing and refining their skill set as they move up through the ranks in youth hockey. Finding the purpose into why a team plays the way they do can lead to more focused development and gameplanning.
One of the challenges facing hockey at the grassroots level is how to attract new families to the game. Sean Fitz Gerald, Managing Editor of The Athletic Toronto is working on a project that explores the status of the game today across the country. Hockey is woven into the sporting fabric of what it means to be Canadian and his work looks at what associations are doing to grow the game and let people into what he describes as a ‘bubble’ around the sport.
It’s the name of the game, scoring goals… and at the end of the day, more goals are the payoff we are all looking for. Goals don’t only help team success, they instill confidence in players, they fuel a fun environment and keep kids coming back to the rink. Guest: Guy Gadowsky, a former National Team Member and 20 year NCAA Division One Head Coach. Current Head Coach of Penn State’s Hockey Program whose high-powered offense leads the NCAA for goals scored this season.
Dave Poulin has done it all in the hockey world. He's been an NHL player, general manager and a college coach while never losing his love for the game. This is his story.
It's the most important line on the ice and you've likely never heard of it. What is the Royal Road? Chris Boyle and Steve Valliquette have identified what they believe is the most important line on the ice, the line he believes supports the existence of shot quality. This is a rebroadcast of Episode 25, one of Breakaway's most popular episode.
What do you remember about a coach you had in minor hockey? All coaches hope to make a positive impact on their players. Coaches are going to leave a memory by the end of the season. Similar to teachers, coaches have the ability to make an imprint on players, whether positive or negative, simply based on the amount of time spent together. Guest: Mike Bara, Manager, Coaching Development with Hockey Canada
One of the buzzwords in the last couple of years in hockey is Small Area Games. Players of any age or skill level can enjoy this great way to incorporate competition into practices. With an increased tempo, engagement and fun, these games check all the boxes for what coaches want. Joe Birch, the Senior Director of Hockey Development and Special Events with Ontario Hockey League discusses the benefits of Small Area Games.
'Culture' is one of the most popular buzzwords in all of sports. But what does it mean? Coaches need to learn how to improve emotional bonds and engagement while understanding how these factors improve athlete performance. It starts with communicating expectations to players and parents.
In the sport of hockey the environment is constantly changing which forces players to continually adapt. The importance of developing decision-making skills and building a toolbox to deliver the necessary skill at the necessary time is something that can make the difference in our game.
A common topic amongst professional coaches is their team philosophy or their ‘style of play’. Having a clear ‘style of play’ from the beginning is an important foundation to have as a coach at the minor hockey level as it allows you to build practices to help achieve your ‘vision’ of how you want the game to be played.
As a hockey parent, we all want our kids to be on teams that are prepared and encouraged to win games, tournaments and competitions at every level. Winning, a crucial part of a player’s development journey and success at any level helps breed confidence for the future but at the most critical years of development, winning shouldn’t be the ultimate aim. The individual development of the young players should be the priority, meaning the decisions that aid the development of all players at the cost of an isolated result should be taken. How much do we push winning?
Running a hockey practice isn’t always easy. Trying to get everyone moving, playing and learning cooperatively can be a challenge, even for the most experienced and confident coaches. Every group of kids is different. One of the most important jobs of coaches is maximizing the limited amount of practice time while providing the most development for players.
Organized sports are one of the many ways we can help our kids develop character, build friendships and stay active and healthy. But for many of us, the high price of these activities can put a strain on finances. Our sport is one that gets constant attention for its cost to play. With equipment, registration and ice costs, the price of playing hockey can add up quickly. However, there are a number of ways that associations and teams can balance the hockey budget by determining what’s important to spend money on from an individual and team perspective.
Teaching life lessons at an early age is key to a life of success. How those lessons are acknowledged is important for shaping the person to become the best that they can be. All of us connected to Hockey see the values it instills in our youth. From commitment, to work ethic to team work, hockey is a valuable tool to teach life skills beyond the game itself. A man who continues to teach those life skills off the ice post-career is Adam Graves, a two-time Stanley Cup Winner and the Vice Chair of Smilezone.
"Hey Coach! Are we scrimmaging today?" Every coach, before every practice is asked this exact question. We asked two experts how to best answer this question along with some other great insights into how to best use your ice and practice time
Malcolm Gladwell popularized the 10,000-Hour rule and immediately parents latched on to the idea that if they want their child to excel in sports, they needed to get these 10,000 hours in before his 10th birthday. What doesn’t come up when defining the 10,000 hour rule are the defining features of deliberate practice, the pillars of skill development and talent. For Dr. Justin Davis, grit might equal deliberate practice, but grit doesn’t necessarily equal creativity.
Picking a captain is one of hockey’s oldest traditions. At the older age groups they are the role model for the rest of their teammates and can act as a liaison and line of communication between the coaching staff and players. But what is the best way to determine when the right age is to start naming a captain?
In the lead up to the recent World Juniors, Sunaya Sapurji began to a look at how those teens were developed by their various nations. As the interview process progressed, however, it became clear that many of the governing hockey federations she spoke to had more or less the same guiding principles for their programs. Where they differed was in their development models themselves or in the challenges they're facing.
Figuring out which position your child will play is typically easy when they're still young—it often translates to what they want to do most: score goals. But despite the allure of knocking in that game-winning goal, not everyone can be a forward. As your child grows older and moves away from the pack of 10 chasing the puck, positions become more defined and more important.
The differences between a good coach and a great one at the grassroots level may be subtle, but they can make a world of difference to players. While knowledge of the game, ability to demonstrate drills and organizational skills are important, what actually separates the best from the rest?
There’s a hot debate going on in many hockey rinks right now, and that is whether younger players are better off playing cross-ice or full-ice games. Stats don't lie, Long Term-Athlete Development research tells us kids need more interaction in their games, which is exactly what cross-ice hockey does. Many minor hockey associations across Canada and USA have mandated cross-ice games.
Coaches at every level can be tempted to 'go for the win.' At the minor hockey level, the decision to shorten the bench to squeeze out an extra win sends the wrong message. Taking away ice time in any situation just might take away interest in the sport altogether. A coach skipping over the third line in the final minutes of a tight game may not seem like a big deal to an adult. But the sweetness of whatever victory gained from such a move likely will still taste sour to all those kids deemed not worthy of playing.
When hockey players discuss their sport it is often about the physical aspect of the game – the skating, shooting, scouting opponents. The mental aspect of the game can sometimes be overlooked because that’s more of a personal factor and doesn’t affect the team as a whole. But what if players could improve how they perform on the ice simply by taking a few minutes to focus on their mindfulness?
In 2013, Hockey Canada announced that bodychecking would be introduced at the Bantam age group which sparked a large debate about the right age to introduce this skill. What was the reason behind the change?
Hockey is a sport that brings families together. From the early mornings at the rink to the road trips for weekend tournaments, the sport keeps everyone involved. Sal Caggiula is the father of Ajax-Pickering Raiders grad and Edmonton Oilers forward Drake Caggiula and of current OMHA referee Brody Caggiula and is very familiar with the topic.
Officials perform a vital role in the game. At all levels, they are the third team on the ice, without whom the game would not happen. Dave Wedlake, Chair of the OMHA Referee program is here to discuss the role of the official.
It’s no secret that at the highest levels of sport some athletes, trainers, coaches and administrators do whatever it takes to win. But in an era where that can been seen and emulated within our local sports leagues, and sometimes even in to our own backyards, is it time we ask the question: Is the win-at-all-costs mindset ruining youth sports?
We look back on season two of Breakaway, The Minor Hockey Podcast. Thanks for listening, we will see you next fall!
The summer months can be used for a number of purposes; relaxing after a long school year and hockey season, trying new activities, going on vacation. Stepping away from the rink in the off-season can be beneficial for a hockey player and playing other sports during this time helps to build a more complete, well-rounded athlete. There are a number of hockey schools available across the province this summer that can provide players with added skills ahead of the upcoming pre-season. If you are interested in possibly signing up for one, it is important to do proper research before registering. There are quality hockey schools that exist but finding the right fit only adds to the experience.
Placing players on teams is one thing, but what you do with those players once the teams are formed is another. Many Canadian communities only have enough players for one team in each age category, others have many teams in each age category, thus tiering occurs. Whether you have one team or multiple teams in each category, player evaluation can still be used, and should still be used as a way of developing players. Tyler Dietrich, Hockey Canada’s Manager, Hockey Operations, Analytics & Video Coach joins us to discuss the best way to evaluate minor hockey players.
The strategy: Give up the puck as quickly as you can, and see if the opponent has the skill to break out of their end against the forecheck. Former professional player and current Video Coach for the Toronto Marlies, Justin Bourne explains why the dump and chase is killing skill in minor hockey.
It’s tough to imagine yourself on the ice as a Tyke or Novice player, but try to remember what it was like. From their point of view, standing on one end of the rink and looking down to the other can feel like the distance is almost miles away. Younger players become exhausted easier because the ice surface they play on is too big for where they are in their development. Some solutions to fix this are by using small-area games during practices, and there are many unique ways for coaches to implement these new elements.
Coaching a team can be difficult. When your own kids are playing on the squad this difficult task becomes even more challenging. While all parents get involved with coaching their kid’s team for all the right reasons, there are times when their hearts may get in the way of doing what’s best for the team as a whole, or even doing what’s best for their child. Former NHLer, Rob Pearson joins us to talk about his playing days and coaching his son.
From coast to coast many of us at the office, online or over the neighbours fence, talk about the former night’s hockey game as commonly as we do the weather. Despite many kids playing our sport, we need to continue to look at ways of growing the game to appeal to young families that are not currently involved, especially now that they have more options for recreational activities than ever before.
Concussion has become the #1 Googled medical conditions over the past several years. Many famous athletes such as Eric Lindros, Sidney Crosby, and Chris Pronger have brought well needed attention to a medical issue that has affected multiple athletes irrespective of age. There have been many important advances in our knowledge of concussions, including how to identify, manage and recover from a concussion. Dr. Shannon Bauman has been caring for athletes of all levels for the last 10 years, from recreational athletes to professional and national level competitors.
Ask any NHL coach what is the hardest skill or attribute to find and they’ll tell you it’s goal scoring. Fifty goals in a season used be a benchmark for goal scorers. Now-a-days fifty goals is reserved for the super elite and one thirty goal season will turn an average player into an All-Star. OHL Video Coach, Brendan Taylor explains how as the game has gotten faster, the time available to make plays has been reduced; in particular, around the net where goals are usually scored.
At any given level of sport, the most talented athlete at that level will get lots of praise. The trouble with judging talent is that what makes one person more talented at each level is subject to change. Talent is important but not the most important factor for furthering success.
Since 1995, the Stanley Cup has spent its summers travelling around the globe as the special guest of the NHL's championship team, its players, and management. Each Stanley Cup champion assumes possession of the trophy for one day of celebration and touring. Phil Pritchard is along for the ride as the official Stanley Cup chaperone — no one gets closer!
Many coaches think that coaching is all about X’s and O’s, but the truth is that it is all about growing great relationships. The secret to great coaching and a successful performance by one’s team isn’t simply technique, or tactics, or fitness. Most coaches only look at potential and behavior (genetics, hours and quality of practice, attitude, coaching, fitness, etc.). These are incredibly important components, but they are not the whole equation.
It's the most important line on the ice and you've likely never heard of it. What is the Royal Road?
From minor-hockey phenomenon to Hall of Fame sensation, Wayne Gretzky rewrote the record books, his accomplishments becoming the stuff of legend. Dubbed “The Great One,” he is considered by many to be the greatest hockey player who ever lived. No one has seen more of the game than he has—but he has never discussed in depth just what it was he saw.
The way in which we engage kids and teach sports has powerful implications on their long term success on and off the ice. The Longer Term Player Development Model was written as a roadmap and continues to evolve so every athlete is given a meaningful, enjoyable experience. Peter McBride is an assistant coach with the University of Toronto (men’s hockey team), as well as the coach mentor for Newmarket Minor Hockey Association and joins us this week.
When it comes to coaching our youth, why do we make the coaches with the highest level of qualification coach at the most elite levels and leave it to often less experienced coaches to truly teach the fundamentals of our sport?
Bob McKenzie’s life revolves around all things puck. With over 30 years in hockey media he has earned the moniker as hockey's 'Insider', breaking news and relaying information to droves of hockey fans on a daily basis. Bob has two best-selling books and has recently started a podcast of his own. We chat with him about all things hockey.
From the annual World Juniors tournament to new equipment or tickets to a game, even heading to a holiday tournament, everybody has different hockey memories around from around the holidays.
The World Junior Championships have always been a holiday tradition and this year is shaping up to be no different. Between servings of family dinners and large scale games of pond hockey, it’s safe to say many classic World Junior moments have had a lasting impression on everyone that enjoys our great game including TSN Insider, Darren Dreger who joins us this week.
With higher standards and more hockey-educated coaches involved in minor hockey today than ever before, it is often easy to overlook the fact that simple life fundamentals are just as important as the X’s and O’s, the perfect practice plan, or the best game strategy. Gord Stellick is a passionate hockey dad has been working on a three part series of life skills that hockey teaches for Hometown Hockey Magazine.
Hockey is the fabric of our country and the cornerstone of every community and few people know that better than Ron MacLean. It is a key part of our national identity and consumes us from early morning practices to the late game on Hockey Night in Canada every Saturday night. For Canadians, it is more than a sport, it is the thing that ties the community together.
The overemphasis of winning takes over our sports to the degree that most coaches will position players as young as five and keep them in that pigeonhole during practice and games for a whole season. This is done to maximize the team’s chances of winning the next league or scheduled tournament. Unfortunately the end result is a player who sees the game from only one perspective and learns only the limited skills, tactics, fitness and psychology demanded of that position
Coaches at every level can be tempted to 'go for the win.' At the minor hockey level, the decision to shorten the bench to squeeze out an extra win sends the wrong message. Taking away ice time in any situation just might take away interest in the sport altogether. A coach skipping over the third line in the final minutes of a tight game may not seem like a big deal to an adult. But the sweetness of whatever victory gained from such a move likely will still taste sour to all those kids deemed not worthy of playing.
Getting better isn’t pretty. Trevor Ragan says that his fascination with learning has sent him on the most incredible journey of his life, and that during his crusade, he’s discovered some important concepts that have totally changed the way he looks at the world. Trevor believes that a growth mindset is the key to success in learning.
Age appropriate off-ice activities can help a child to grow and develop their on-ice skills but knowing the right skills to teach and train is the name of the game. It is important for coaches and parents to gain an understanding of how children learn and how sports skills will relate to their interpersonal life skills.
Ken Reid, co-anchor of Sportsnet Connected, has been a huge sports fan and hockey card collector since he was a kid growing up in Nova Scotia. After accumulating 40,000 hockey cards and filling a closet at home in Toronto, he became interested in the stories behind those hockey cards. We chat hockey cards with Ken and discuss his first book titled “Hockey Card Stories.”
The position of defencemen is being redefined. The terms ‘stay at home defenceman’ or ‘defensive defenceman’ have become popular in the hockey community, but the players that have gained the reputation matching those terms are vastly becoming castaways due to the increased importance of the transition game starting at defence.
Dr. Anders Ericsson, a psychology professor out of Florida State University, conducted a study and came to the conclusion that it takes 10,000 hours of dedicated practice to become an expert in whatever you were working on.
Whether you’re a serious athlete or a recreational exerciser, it’s important to make sure you get the right amount of water before, during, and after exercise. Water regulates your body temperature and lubricates your joints. It also helps transport nutrients to give you energy and keep you healthy. If you’re not properly hydrated, your body can’t perform at its highest level.
Checking is a critical skill in the game of hockey that when performed properly can create quality scoring opportunities or help a team regain control of the puck. Just like skating, puck control, passing and shooting there are key progressions to the skill of checking when taught effectively, can greatly enhance a player's enjoyment of the great game of hockey. A common misconception is that the skill of checking begins at a certain age or age category of play. As with all skills, checking is a progression that begins the first time a young player steps on the ice. Each step builds upon the previous step and brings the hockey player that much closer to being able to give and receive body checks competently and confidently. Hockey Canada's Corey McNabb joins us this week on Breakaway, the Minor Hockey Podcast.
With some teams having limited ice time, how can coaches make the most of practice? Stan Butler is the Head Coach of the North Bay Battalion and is the longest serving coach in the Ontario Hockey League with one team and joins the Breakaway Podcast.
In today’s game Coaches are responsible for developing athletes’ mental, physical, technical, and tactical abilities, and in addition to all of these responsibilities, there is an underlying expectation to win. When it comes to judging coaching performance, the player’s perspective can be easily overlooked at the grassroots level. Jeremy Cross is the Director of Coach Development at the Coaches Association of Ontario and joins us to discuss what makes a great coach.
Should youth sports organizations be providing players with trophies and medals simply for showing up?
Emerging research, which spurred Canada to develop the world’s first 24-Hour Movement Guidelines, shows that physical activity, sedentary behaviour – and sleep – are closely interrelated.
The final buzzer sounds on season 1 of Breakaway, the Minor Hockey Podcast. Stay tuned for updates and a new season starting in September.
It’s a simple truth; if you’re the parent of a kid who shows some promise in the game of hockey, there’s enormous pressure to extend his or her season beyond March and into June, perhaps with a summer hockey school tossed in for good measure. Corey McNabb, Director of Hockey Development Programs for Hockey Canada discusses the pros and cons of summer hockey.
What happens to us parents and coaches that turns us from sensible, relaxed people to stressed out adults roaming up and down sports sidelines and screaming at every play? John O'Sullivan is the Founder of the Changing the Game Project and author of two #1 bestselling books on parenting athletes.
Player evaluation and placement, like player development, is a process - effective management of the process will make a young players experience in hockey a more positive one. David Manning, Head Coach of St. Andrews College in Newmarket joins us to share some tips on providing players with the best possible experience in an environment where they can grow as hockey players and young people
The intangibles of sports are always the toughest to determine success in. There are so many factors that go into creating great hockey players but there is no magic formula that exists for someone to copy. Joe Birch, Senior Director of Hockey Development and Special Events for the OHL tells us what players need to succeed.
Most parents coach their kids’ hockey team because they want to spend quality time together. Others want to give back to the game, or because they learned the game from their parents. Some may feel that since they’re going to be at the rink anyway, why not help out on the ice. NHL veteran of 14 years and over 900 games, Matthew Barnaby now dedicates his time to coaching his sons’ hockey team and gives his perspective and some helpful hints about coaching at the minor hockey level.
A second round pick in 2003, by Minnesota Patrcik O’Sullivan would play 334 NHL games with five teams over the course of his nine-year professional career. Now at the age of 30, the former NHLer is sharing his story to help others caught in similar circumstances of physical abuse.
During the 1999 Open Ice Summit on Player Development in Canada, delegates close to the game at the grassroots level recommended that Hockey Canada investigate ways to celebrate skill development in hockey. What Hockey Canada created was the National Skills Standards and Testing Program. The program is based on the fundamental philosophy that skill development should be fun and challenging and at the same time accessible to all players. Ryan Hurley is the Manager of the Hockey Canada Regional Centre in Ontario talks about the best way to measure skill in the game.
Expectations are everywhere, in life and in sport. Our ability to manage them is a key factor in controlling stress levels, frustration levels and overall success. Paul Dennis is a long time sport psychologist consultant with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Hockey Canada and the Canadian Hockey League and joins us to talk about how we can better manage our expectations when it comes to sports.
When it comes to hockey, one could safely argue Canada remains the world’s No. 1 super power. Canada has won back-to-back (three of four, in fact) Olympic gold medals in men’s hockey and four consecutive Olympic gold medals in women’s hockey. However, when it comes to developing top-notch goaltenders, Canada lags behind many other hockey-playing nations. Not in the sense that Canada does not have some great goalies, it’s just there is not strength in numbers. Vetran hockey journalist, Mike Brophy discusses what is happeneing between the pipes in Canada. To read Brophy's article, visit OMHA.net/Breakaway
The greatest difference between our children’s sporting experience and our own is the rise of year-round, sport-specific organizations that ask – even require – season after season of participation in order to stay in the player development pipeline. The pressure to have your child specialize in a single sport at a young age has never been stronger. David Kittner, the Youth Fitness Guy joins us to talk sport specialization in minor sports.
Chris Boyle & Steve Valliquette have identified what they believe is the most important line on the ice, the line he believes supports the existence of shot quality.
Each year minor hockey associations undertake the task of selecting coaching staff to oversee programming for the coming season. The ultimate goal of this process is to provide players with the best possible experience in an environment where they can grow as hockey players and young people. Dan Pollard is joined by Stephen Gaunce of the Markham Waxers and father of two professional hockey players, Cameron and Brendan Gaunce.
Playing goalie doesn't just happen when you make a save. There is incredible preparation that occurs before a shot even leaves the stick that can determine whether the puck ends up in the back of the net.
The world of sport is continually changing, and the use of technology is just one of those areas that have made an impact on hockey in the modern day. From training techniques to new equipment and even to the way we analyze the game, technology has evolved the sport and changed the way it is played.
There is no exact science to create the perfect hockey player. Everyone knows it’s not that easy. Developing intelligent, well-rounded players can be done at an early age, but it is important to remember that kids need to learn fundamentals before they can be taught anything else. Brendan Taylor is a former OHL and OUA player and the current assistant coach of the Oakville Blades in the OJHL. He weighed in on the Breakaway Podcast on the debate of when systems should be taught to players.
There are few things in hockey that make jaws drop more than a finessed deke around a defender, but the art of stick handling is so much more than that. Jeremy Rupke is the creator of HowToHockey.com, a website aimed at improving players through tips and drills. He appeared on the Breakaway podcast to share his knowledge on becoming a better stick handler.
Former guests of the show including Darren Dreger, Tom Renney, Catherine Ward, and Craig Button share their most innovative ways they would change the game for the better.
The World Juniors Championship tournament has always been a welcomed addition into living rooms over the holidays. Families gather around the television to cheer on Canada as the team begins its quest for another gold medal. TSN Director of Scouting, Craig Button chats about the history of the tournament and what to look for from this edition of Team Canada.
Officials perform a vital role in the game. At all levels are the third team on the ice, without whom the game would not happen. Dave Wedlake, Chair of the OMHA Referee program joined us to discuss the role of the official.
With the holidays just around the corner, our team has your official holiday cheat sheet when it comes to shopping for the hockey fanatic on your list.
Imagine playing hockey on a seemingly endless sheet of ice. You can see the puck but no matter how hard you try or how fast you skate you are never able to catch up to it. Suddenly, you find yourself trapped at one end of the rink, helplessly watching as the play moves toward the other end. Ken Martell, Technical Director of USA Hockey explains the benefits of age appropriate sizes for pucks, ice and nets.
Anyone who follows him on twitter or pays attention to a featured segment on TSN.ca, knows Darren Dreger's passion for backyard rinks. We chat how to make the perfect backyard rink with the Hockey Insider himself
Hockey Canada President, Tom Renney discusses how to build skilled hockey players in part two of our conversation.
Warming up before a practice, game or training session is vital in ensuring the body is ready to compete at its highest level. Warm ups should start with basic movements - and they don’t necessarily need a lot of space or equipment. Mark Fitzgerald, owner of Elite Training Systems, Strength and Conditioning Coach Anaheim Ducks/ Lead Training Adviser Under Armour Canada talks about the proper way to warm up and train your body.
The strategy: Give up the puck as quickly as you can, and see if the opponent has the skill to break out of their end against the forecheck. Former professional player and current write for The Score, Justin Bourne explains why the dump and chase is killing skill in minor hockey.
Former NHLer and Co-Founder of Respect Group, Sheldon Kennedy, has been a champion for respectful behaviour for sport stakeholders since 2004. We sat down with Sheldon to discuss the Respect in Sport Parent program, the evolving role of parents in sport and how we can all become agents for positive change.
Given Canada is the birth place of hockey, and Canadians are so passionate about the sport, it was surprising to learn that 90% of the kids do NOT play hockey today. Today we focus on the 90% that currently do not play and find ways to get them involved in our favourite sport to make a meaningful impact on the lives of kids, their families, and our communities. We chat with Lodovic Lord, Manager of Recruitment Initiatives with Hockey Canada to discuss how to get more kids playing the game.
Hockey is indeed an international game. Welland Ontario native, Mike Pelino, Assistant Coach with Metallurg Magnitogorsk of the KHL discusses the differences in the game from an international view and what we can apply to the Canadian model.
Keep them moving, emphasize the fundamentals, and incorporate a progression of skill development for every participant. Wayne Parro, Executive Director of the Professional Coaching Department with Coaching Association of Canada discusses these four principals that will allow you to develop an effective plan for the upcoming season in under an hour.
The name ‘Defenseman’ or ‘Defender ’used to be an accurate title but no longer properly captures the role of the modern Hockey ‘Defenseman’. Now we ask our players to “Attack as five and defend as five” and our Defensemen to be our ‘Quarterbacks’ – playing with poise, vision, and awareness. NCCP Certified Coach Facilitator with the Ontario Minor Hockey Association, Peter McBride chats about the changing role of Defensemen.
In the past decade, hockey sticks made from high-tech materials found in aircraft and Formula One race cars have replaced wood models as the tool of choice for players from the NHL all the way down to tyke. Catherine Ward of the Montreal Stars of the CWHL and Product Manager for CCM talks about the technology behind sticks, how it has changed the game and what to look for when choosing the right stick for you.
One-on-One with Hockey Canada President, Tom Renney about the state of hockey, what direction Hockey Canada is taking and his passion for the sport.
Kids who have fun playing a sport are more likely to stay active and healthy for their entire lifetime. They also have a better chance of becoming a top athlete. So make it fun, and make it quality! Richard Monette from Active for Life sits down to talk about the role parents play in their child's athletic development.
Hockey is a fast and demanding sport requiring proper fueling to reach peak performance. Repeated bouts of high intensity, anaerobic shifts result in rapid decline of energy stores. A recovery eating plan is essential to speed up recovery before playing again the next day.Heidi Smith, Sport Dietitian and Head of Nutrition at the Health and Performance Centre at the University of Guelph chats about the foods to eat before your next game.
The saying “It takes a village to raise a child” is very appropriate when it comes to providing a positive experience for our players. Hockey Canada’s Long Term Player Development model (LTPD) is a framework to maximize a player’s potential and long term involvement in sport over the course of their life. Ian Taylor, Director of Development for the Ontario Minor Hockey Association is here with us to discuss the important role Minor Hockey Associations provide in leading the education of parents and volunteers about the benefits of Long Term Player Development and identify the need for programs to incorporate LTPD philosophies.