Shows
Our Kids Play HockeyThe Ride To The Rink - Is Prep School For Me with Shattuck St. Mary's Girls Head Hockey Coach & Olympic Gold Medalist Brianna DeckerAre you on the path to prep school? This episode of "The Ride To The Rink" explores the critical decisions and skills that shape a successful hockey career. From preparing for prep school hockey to mastering self-advocacy, our hosts provide valuable insights for both players and parents. Discover how surrounding yourself with better players can elevate your game, and gain wisdom from Olympic gold medalist Brianna Decker's unique coaching philosophy. Whether you're considering a hockey-focused prep school or one with diverse sports options, this episode offers guidance to help you make informed choices.
2024-12-0507 min
Our Kids Play HockeyOur Girls Play Hockey - A Guide To Girls College Hockey Recruiting with Boston University Women's Ice Hockey Team Assistant Coach Megan MyersDive into our essential guide to college hockey recruiting with hosts Lee MJ Elias, Mike Bonelli, Christie Casciano Burns, and Sheri Hudspeth in this episode of "Our Girls Play Hockey." Joined by Megan Myers, assistant coach for the Boston University women's ice hockey team, the discussion covers everything from the ideal age to start thinking about college hockey to crafting the perfect email to catch a coach's attention. Megan shares her expertise on navigating NCAA rules, the importance of balancing academics and athletics, and the value of both official and unofficial visits. This episode is a must-listen for players...
2024-09-1051 min
Our Kids Play HockeyOur Girls Play Hockey - Debunking 5 Myths About Women’s Hockey with Hannah BeckmanIn this episode of Our Girls Play Hockey, we dive deep into five common myths about women’s hockey with our expert guest, Hannah Beckman. Hannah, a skater for the Puerto Rican National Ice Hockey Team and recent graduate from Utica University, where she served as Director of Operations for their NCAA women’s program, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the conversation.Together, we discuss and debunk the myths that have long surrounded women’s hockey, shedding light on the realities of the game and how it’s evolving. From the false notion that women’s...
2024-08-271h 21
Our Kids Play HockeyThe Ride To The Rink - Chasing Your Hockey Dreams With Megan BozekIn this episode of The Ride To The Rink, we sit down with Olympian and professional hockey player Megan Bozek to discuss the power of having dreams and the journey it takes to achieve them. Megan shares her personal story, from dreaming of playing college hockey to representing her country on the Olympic stage. She offers valuable advice for young athletes about the importance of setting goals, the reality of facing setbacks, and the lessons learned along the way.Megan emphasizes that while not all dreams are guaranteed, the process of striving toward them shapes you into...
2024-08-2007 min
Our Kids Play HockeyThe Ride To The Rink - 7-Time Stanley Cup Champion and NHL Hall Of Famer Bryan TrottierWelcome back, hockey skaters and goalies! On this special edition of The Ride to the Rink, we are honored to have a true hockey legend joining us—NHL Hall of Famer Bryan Trottier. As one of the top 100 NHL players of all time, Bryan has an impressive resume with seven Stanley Cups under his belt—six as a player and one as a coach. Today, he shares valuable insights on the importance of being resourceful in your training and how overcoming challenges can lead to success.Key Takeaways:•Resourcefulness Over Resources: Bryan...
2024-08-1508 min
Our Kids Play HockeyOur Girls Play Hockey - How Long Should Girls Play Boys' Hockey with USA Hockey Olympian Megan BozekIn this insightful episode of Our Girls Play Hockey, hosts Lee Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Sheri Hudspeth are joined by hockey legend Megan Bozek to tackle a question many parents and young female athletes face: “How long should girls play boys’ hockey?”Megan, a decorated Team USA member and Olympic medalist, shares her personal journey from playing boys’ hockey until the 8th grade to making the switch to girls’ hockey. She delves into the challenges and benefits of both environments, offering invaluable advice for parents and players navigating this crucial decision.The episode covers essential topics suc...
2024-08-131h 02
Our Kids Play HockeySeven-Time Stanley Cup Champion and NHL Hall Of Famer Bryan TrottierIn this inspiring episode of “Our Kids Play Hockey,” hosts Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli sit down with NHL legend & Hall of Famer Bryan Trottier. With seven Stanley Cups to his name—six as a player and one as a coach—Trottier shares his journey from a small town in Saskatchewan to the pinnacle of hockey success. He opens up about his commitment to honoring his First Nation heritage and the vital work he does to grow the game in Indigenous communities across Canada.Trottier discusses the resilience and pride of these communities, the role hockey plays in build...
2024-08-101h 16
Our Kids Play HockeyOur Girls Play Hockey - How to Start a Girls’ Hockey Program feat. Katelyn Parker of the Seattle KrakenWelcome to the premiere episode of “Our Girls Play Hockey,” a new series within the “Our Kids Play Hockey” podcast network. In this episode, hosts Lee Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Sheri Hudspeth from the Vegas Golden Knights, dive into the intricacies of starting a girls’ youth hockey program. Our expert guest, Katelyn Parker, shares her invaluable insights and experiences.Starting a Girls’ Hockey Program:•Importance of having passionate leaders.•Initial steps: Contacting district representatives and understanding rules and regulations.•Grassroots approach: Building a sustainable program by starting at the lower levels and c...
2024-07-301h 07
Our Kids Play HockeyThe Ride to the Rink: Building Habits for Success: Insights from Luke CroucherShow Notes:In this episode of “The Ride to the Rink,” host Lee Elias is joined by Division 3 hockey player and online influencer Luke Croucher. Currently playing for Neumann University, Luke shares his journey from Canada to Philadelphia and dives into the importance of building habits for success in hockey and life. They discuss how small, consistent actions can lead to significant improvements and the mental fortitude required to maintain these habits. Luke provides practical tips on creating productive routines, overcoming obstacles, and maintaining motivation.Key Topics:Introduction to Luke Croucher:Background as a...
2024-07-2511 min
Our Kids Play HockeyLuke Croucher’s Path to Inspiring the Next Generation of Hockey PlayersShow Notes:In this engaging episode of “Our Kids Play Hockey,” hosts Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli welcome Luke Croucher, a Division III hockey player from Neumann University with a passion for motivating, inspiring, and educating young hockey players. Luke shares his unique hockey journey from Ancaster, Ontario, to college hockey near Philadelphia, highlighting the importance of perseverance, hard work, and capturing life lessons. This episode dives into overcoming challenges, the significance of Division III hockey, and Luke’s role as a social media influencer for the youth hockey community.Key Topics:Luke C...
2024-07-2051 min
Our Kids Play HockeyThe Ride To The Rink - Unleashing Your Inner Leader: A Special Message from The NHL’s Kim DavisIn this inspiring episode of “The Ride to the Rink,” we are joined by, Kim Davis, an extremely high-ranking official at the NHL and a global influencer in the world of hockey. Kim shares a powerful message directly aimed at young hockey players about the importance of courage and leadership in shaping the future of the sport and society.Join us as Kim emphasizes the vital role that today’s youth play in driving positive change, both on and off the ice. She discusses the importance of standing up for what you believe in, being a continuous learne...
2024-07-1104 min
Our Kids Play HockeyNHL Senior Executive VP Kim Davis on Revolutionizing Youth Hockey Inclusivity & DevelopmentOn this week's episode of “Our Kids Play Hockey,” Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli sit down with Kim Davis, the Senior Executive Vice President of Social Impact, Growth Initiatives, and Legislative Affairs for the National Hockey League.Kim Davis is a transformative figure in hockey, working tirelessly to promote inclusivity and growth within the sport. In this episode, Kim shares her insights on the importance of youth hockey, the vital role of inclusivity, and how hockey can be a powerful tool for societal change.Highlights:•The Influence of Youth Hockey: Kim...
2024-07-061h 06
Our Kids Play HockeyBuilding America's Biggest Youth Hockey League with NIHL President Bob ApterOn this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, hosts Lee Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Christie Casciano Burns are joined by Bob Apter, President of the Northern Illinois Hockey League (NIHL), the largest youth hockey league in the United States. Bob shares his journey from a passionate young player to the leader of a league with over 50 organizations and 300 teams. Discover how NIHL’s innovative approach to competitive balance, community involvement, and partnerships with major teams like the Chicago Blackhawks has fostered incredible growth and success.Bob also provides valuable insights on how parents can make inf...
2024-06-2255 min
Our Kids Play HockeyOur Kids Play Goalie: Goalie Development and Coaching Insights with Coach Brian DaccordIn this week's episode of “Our Kids Play Goalie,” Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli sit down with Brian Daccord, goaltending coach for Boston University. Brian’s illustrious career includes coaching stints with the Boston Bruins, Arizona Coyotes, and Toronto Maple Leafs, as well as winning a German championship in 2015. He is also the founder of Stop It Goaltending and the Director of Goaltending Development at Sense Arena. Brian shares his wealth of knowledge and personal experiences, including insights from his books “Hockey Goaltending” and “How to Be a Goalie Parent,” and stories about his son Joey Daccord, a starting goaltender for...
2024-06-151h 21
Our Kids Play HockeyThe Ride to the Rink: Advocating for Yourself with Coach Jenna TrubianoIn this episode of "The Ride to the Rink," hosts Lee Elias, Christie Casciano-Burns, and Mike Bonelli are joined by Jenna Trubiano, head coach of the University of Michigan Women’s ACHA Division I hockey team. Jenna shares invaluable advice for young hockey players and their parents about the importance of advocating for yourself and communicating effectively with coaches.Key Topics Covered:Self-Advocacy: Jenna emphasizes the significance of young athletes learning to advocate for themselves and how it impacts their development.Communication Skills: Practical tips on how to...
2024-06-1318 min
Our Kids Play HockeyLeading The University of Michigan Women's Ice Hockey Team To New Heights with Head Coach Jenna TrubianoIn this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," hosts Lee Elias, Christy Casciano-Burns, and Mike Bonelli welcome Jenna Trubiano, head coach of the University of Michigan Women’s ACHA Division I hockey team. Jenna shares her inspiring journey from a late-start youth player to leading one of the most promising women's club hockey programs in the country.Key Topics Covered:Jenna's Hockey Journey: Discover how Jenna went from learning to skate at age nine to becoming the head coach at her alma mater, the University of Michigan.Challenges and Triumphs:...
2024-06-081h 03
Our Kids Play HockeyDave Caruso's Journey from Non-Traditional Roots to Hockey LeadershipOn this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey" we chat with Dave Caruso, former Ohio State University goaltender and professional player, now the Senior Director of Hockey Programming for the Columbus Blue Jackets. From growing up in non-traditional hockey markets to coaching in the New Jersey Devils organization and contributing to the U.S. Youth Olympic team's recent gold medal success, Dave shares his unique insights and experiences that span across playing, coaching, and administration in hockey.Episode Highlights:Introduction and Background:Introduction of Dave, detailing his journey from a youth...
2024-05-251h 11
Our Kids Play HockeyThe Ride to the Rink: NHL VP of Hockey Ops Sean Ellis on Handling Emotions and Respect in HockeyIn this episode of The Ride To The Rink, we're thrilled to have Sean Ellis, Vice President of Hockey Operations for the NHL, join us. Sean works in the NHL’s Situation Room in Toronto, making crucial calls during games that can turn the tide of play.Sean shares invaluable advice for young hockey players on how to respond to calls on the ice. He discusses the importance of managing emotions, whether it's a good call or a bad one, and how to use those feelings to fuel your performance positively. Sean emphasizes personal accountability, re...
2024-05-2314 min
Our Kids Play HockeyInside the NHL Situation Room: A Conversation with Sean EllisOn this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," we take you behind the scenes look at NHL operations with our special guest, Sean Ellis, a Vice President of Hockey Operations at the NHL. We dive deep into the mechanics and the thrill of managing the famed NHL Situation Room.Key Highlights:Sean's Hockey Journey:Sean shares his personal journey from playing junior hockey in Massachusetts to finding his path in the NHL. Discover the series of fortunate events and the pivotal decisions that shaped his career in hockey operations.
2024-05-181h 17
Our Kids Play HockeyInside the Flyers' Impact on Youth Hockey, Warrior Hockey, And The Community with Rob BaerIn this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," Lee Elias speaks with Rob Baer, the Director of Youth Hockey and Amateur Programs for the Philadelphia Flyers. Rob has dedicated over two decades to the sport, significantly impacting both youth and amateur hockey through various programs and initiatives. Notably, he's a key figure in the Flyers' Learn to Play program and an assistant coach for the Flyers Warriors.Discussion Highlights:Rob Baer's Hockey Journey:From playing at Archbishop Carroll High School to engaging with the Philadelphia Phantoms, Rob's deep-rooted connection with hockey...
2024-05-1144 min
Our Kids Play HockeyInspiring the Next Generation of Women in Hockey with Amber RossIn this episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," Lee Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli host Amber Ross, a trailblazer for women's hockey in Minnesota. A former collegiate player and current youth hockey coach, Amber shares her journey from a late start in the sport at age 15 to coaching youth teams. She discusses the importance of female role models in coaching, highlighting her motivations to empower young girls through sport, including her own daughters.Amber dives into the challenges she faces in a male-dominated coaching environment, illustrating the subtle exclusions that make it tough for women...
2024-05-0438 min
Our Kids Play HockeySafeguarding Youth Athletes: Insights from Physical Therapist Dr. Addison Lerner-LentzIn this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," hosts Lee Elias and Mike Bonelli dive into the crucial topic of youth athlete health and workload management. The episode features a special guest, Dr. Addison Lerner-Lentz, a seasoned expert in physical therapy and sports coaching. With Christie Casciano-Burns on assignment, Lee and Mike lead a conversation that explores the delicate balance between pushing young athletes towards greatness and ensuring they remain healthy and injury-free for the long haul.Dr. Addison Lerner-Lentz, with nearly 15 years of experience in physical therapy and a decade in coaching collegiate sports, shares...
2024-04-201h 08
Our Kids Play HockeyBuilding Teams and Developing Champions with Neil Smith and Vic Morren of the NHL Wraparound PodcastIn this week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," hosts Lee Elias, Christie Casciano Burns, and Mike Bonelli dive into a conversation with two hockey legends, Neil Smith and Vic Morren. Neil and Vic share their invaluable experiences and philosophies on building successful teams and fostering leadership qualities in young athletes.What You'll Learn:The Art of Team Building: Discover Neil Smith's approach to creating a championship team, focusing on the blend of talent, character, and leadership.Developing Young Talent: Vic Morren sheds light on the importance of nurturing young...
2024-04-061h 25
Our Kids Play HockeyHow the Blackhawks Are Transforming Hockey Culture and Fan Engagement with Jaime FaulknerThis week's episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey" features an inspiring conversation with Jaime Faulkner, President of Business Operations for the Chicago Blackhawks. Jaime shares insights into her multifaceted role, which largely focuses on advancing the fan experience—a goal the Blackhawks' team is truly succeeding at. Jaime’s leadership and vision in a pivotal position within the Blackhawks organization highlights the evolving landscape of hockey at all levels.Key Insights:The significance of evolving the fan experience, especially for families and children, to cultivate long-term supporters of the game.The impactful role of high...
2024-03-301h 04
Our Kids Play HockeyElevating Youth Hockey with Justin Scott Through Global Insights and Grassroots DevelopmentIn this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, we explore the evolving landscape of hockey training, emphasizing the blend of physical and cognitive skills necessary for modern players. We dive into the discussion with Justin Scott, a renowned power skating specialist and certified hockey skills coach, to understand the global perspective of hockey's growth and how it translates into local training methodologies.Key Points Discussed:Expanding Hockey Globally: We discuss the worldwide expansion of hockey, focusing on the diverse international experiences of our guest, Justin Scott. His travels across continents such as...
2024-03-231h 23
Our Kids Play HockeyA Masterclass in Leadership and Inclusivity with Madison PackerIn this week’s episode of "The Ride to the Rink," we dive into the essence of what makes a great teammate with the guidance of Madison Packer, a renowned professional hockey player known for her leadership on and off the ice. Madison shares her insights into the simple yet profound principles of kindness, inclusivity, and respect within the team dynamic.What You Will Learn:The fundamental qualities of being a fantastic teammate.The importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment within a team.Real-world applications of leadership and empathy in youth sports.Th...
2024-03-2106 min
What the Chel44. Fearless Networking (ft. Katelynn Reiss)This week, I'm chatting with Katelynn Reiss-- community manager for Hockey Wraparound, producer of multiple hockey podcasts, professional photographer, and so much more. She is a true multitalented inspiration and she has so much wisdom to share, especially when it comes to fearless networking and getting your name out there as someone who wants to work in sports. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did!Follow my guest @reissmode, the show @whatthechelpod, and your hostess @haylauryn_Subscribe on whatever podcast app you listen on and leave a rating or...
2024-03-1935 min
Our Kids Play HockeyPassion, Perseverance, and Pioneering Towards The Professional Women’s Hockey League with Madison PackerOn this week’s episode of "Our Kids Play Hockey," Lee Elias, Mike Bonelli, and Christie Casciano Burns are joined by Professional Hockey Player Madison Packer. Madison's hockey journey is a testament to resilience, leadership, and passion. From her early days on the ice in Birmingham, Michigan, to becoming an NCAA champion with the University of Wisconsin, and now stepping into the professional arena with PWHL New York, Madison's story is not just about hockey, but about life, family, and breaking barriers.What You Will Learn:Madison Packer's inspiring journey from youth hockey to pr...
2024-03-161h 12