Grit and Growth

This week's episode is all about our listeners. Many of you have asked questions over the first 16 weeks of our podcast and so we are dedicating episode 17 to answering a number of those questions. This is Part 1 of the Q&A series. If you enjoyed this and have other questions for us to answer in Part 2, please send us those. Takeaways 1. What is SaskFirst? 2. What are good practice habits? 3. What do Scouts want to see?

Takeaways: 1. The history of the CSSHL 2. Developing good citizens 3. Why you should focus on development 

Milwaukee Admirals Head Coach, Karl Taylor joins our podcast this week to discuss his heart based approach to coaching and development of NHL prospects. Using Tanner Jeannot as an example of an athlete that he had the privilege to coach, he talks about the need to "Own Your Career and Your Development" and how to be ready to maximize yourself everyday. Takeaways 1. "PHD" 2. Own your development 3. Be intentional about reestablishing culture every year

In this episode, we are joined in the studio by the legendary hockey coach, Dave King.  - We discuss his keys to success in hockey and in life. - Dave takes us through a recap of his career from junior B hockey in Saskatchewan to the head coach of the Canadian Olympic team as well as the Calgary Flames, Columbus blue jackets, Montréal Canadiens, Phoenix coyotes, and his memorable time in Russia Dave has an exceptional message for young athletes today, reminding them that we are never too old to learn and that there’s a difference between decisions and choices in hockey and learning that will really determine how far you will go and that a team is made up of strong individuals who learn how to use their strengths and skills to serve each other.

Loren Molleken joins our hosts in studio today to discuss a lifetime of hockey. With over 600 wins in the Western Hockey League and stops in the NHL in San Jose, Pittsburgh and Chicago, Lorne talks about mentorship, character and his time as a coach at the Prairie Hockey Academy. Takeaways: 1. 2nd chances 2. Character counts 3. Learning to listen to your kids

Melissa Ieraci from Make Shifts Happen joins us again to talk more about optimal performance and how to fuel for success in season. We talk about Canada's team, the Toronto Blue Jays and Mel's part in the playoff run. Then dive into how to hack your own sport drink for your gamedays!  Three takeaways 1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate 2. What you eat today will impact you tomorrow 3. Sleep and recovery 

Hear from Dustin Friesen as he talks about practical leadership in sport as well as his influences along the way from a small town Saskatchewan farm boy to a Captain in the German Elite League (DEL). 3 takeaways 1. Culture of Excellence 2. Coaching 3. Strength & Conditioning 

In this week's episode our hosts, Barret Kropf and Justin Simpkins are joined by two year PHA alumni, Chase Coward to discuss his journey over the last two years. From one of Canada's top Junior goalies, on the verge of playing World Jr's, to having to hang up his skates and pick up a clipboard, Chase details his experience with adversity and the determination it took to face double hip surgery on his comeback to the Minnesota Wild NHL Camp. Chase talks about his time at PHA being instrumental in giving him the tools he needed to succeed, as well as mentors in his life. Takeaways: - High Standards require Good Relationships - Mindset of excellence - It's never too young to be a mentor 

Cohosts Barret Kropf and Justin Simpkins talk about the genesis of PHA, the start of season 7 and the philosophy behind your focal point.  Three takeaways: 1. Leaders take responsibility2. Growth Zone3. Know your focal point 

"Your body language and your compete level will open doors or slam them shut" 1. Back to back to back Coach of the Year 2. Advice for young coaches - "Be prepared, keep it simple and enjoy the process" 3. The importance of body language in athletes