Our Kids Play Hockey

🧠 Ever wonder what separates good hockey players from great ones? It’s not just skating or shooting — it’s how they see the game. In this quick but powerful mini-episode, Lee and Mike dive deep into one of hockey’s most underrated superpowers: situational awareness.From blue-line turnovers to risky rushes, goalie decisions to smart dump-ins, this episode breaks down how learning to “zoom out” and see the full 200x80 sheet can transform a young player’s game — and make coaches trust them more.💡 In This Episode:Why goals rarely start where you think they do 🥅The dangers of far-blue-line turnovers (and how to avoid them)What “situational awareness” really means for players, goalies, and coachesHow to stop being a liability and start being the player coaches want on the iceWhy sometimes the smartest move is the simplest one👀 Whether you’re a player learning the ropes or a coach trying to teach smarter hockey, this episode will change how you see every shift.🎧 Tune in, take notes, and remember: great hockey isn’t just about playing hard — it’s about playing smart.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Seeing the Whole Ice — Why Situational Awareness is the Smartest Skill in Youth Hockey#YouthHockey #SituationalAwareness #HockeyIQ #CoachingTips #PlayerDevelopment #RideToTheRink #OurKidsPlayHockeyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🏒🥽Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

✨ Do young girls take coaching more literally than boys? That’s the big question we dig into on this week’s episode of Our Girls Play Hockey!Lee, Mike, and Team USA’s Hayley Scamurra share their coaching insights and personal experiences on how language, confidence, and context impact the way girls receive and process feedback compared to boys.From locker room dynamics to building trust, the panel gets real about what works (and what doesn’t) when helping young female players thrive — and why it’s not about coaching them differently, but coaching them better.🔥 Highlights from this episode:Why young girls often follow instructions to the letter — and how to encourage creativity without causing confusionThe pressures girls feel in co-ed teams and how that shapes their approach to mistakesSpecific language swaps coaches can use to make instructions clearer and more effectiveThe importance of trust, body language, and context when coaching young female athletesWhy positive feedback must be earned — and how to balance encouragement with accountabilityWhether you’re a coach, parent, or player, this conversation will spark new ideas on how to support the next generation of girls in hockey. 🏒💪👉 What do you think? Email us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com or text us using the link in the description. We’d love to feature your thoughts in a future episode!📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Do Girls Take Hockey Coaching More Literally Than Boys?#GirlsHockey #YouthHockey #CoachingTips #HockeyParents #PWHL #WomensHockey #OurKidsPlayHockeyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🏒🥽Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

💭 Feeling the weight of being a hockey parent? You’re not alone. In this heartfelt and honest episode, Lee Elias, Christie Casciano-Burns, and Mike Bonelli open up about the mental and emotional load that comes with youth hockey — the long weekends, the money, the pressure, and the expectations we quietly carry.🔥 In this conversation:Why so many parents tie their own worth to their kids’ performance 🧠The guilt, stress, and second-guessing that come after every gameHow money, time, and competition fuel anxiety for hockey familiesWhy behavior—not outcomes—should be your real “win” metricWhat emotional resilience really looks like at home and at the rinkWhy “family first” isn’t just a saying — it’s a sanity saver ❤️✨ Key moments include:Christie’s powerful reminder that “youth hockey is the good old days.”Lee’s story of skipping practice to prioritize family — and why it mattered more.Mike’s candid reflections on managing expectations as both coach and parent.At the end of the day, this episode is a deep breath for every parent who’s ever thought, “Am I doing enough?” Spoiler: You are.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: The Mental Load of Being a Hockey Parent: Managing Pressure, Guilt & Joy🎧 Listen, laugh, and remember — you’re not crazy, the hockey world is.#OurKidsPlayHockey #HockeyParenting #YouthHockey #SportsParenting #MentalHealthInSports #ParentPerspective #ChristieCascianoBurns #LeeElias #MikeBonelli #HockeyLife #FamilyFirst #YouthSportsBalanceClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🏒🥽Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

🎙️ “Okay.” “K.” “👍.” Sound familiar? In this week’s episode of The Ride To The Rink, Mike and Lee tackle one of the sneakiest challenges facing young hockey players today — texting instead of talking.From locker room group chats to misread messages, they break down why communication has become so complicated — and how simple face-to-face conversations can make you not only a better teammate, but a better person.🔥 Highlights include:The hidden dangers of texting tone (and why emojis don’t fix it 😅)How miscommunication can fracture team dynamicsWhy coaches notice players who communicate confidentlyThe difference between “I’m busy” and “I don’t care” in a textTips to build verbal confidence — on and off the iceReal examples from Mike and Lee’s coaching experiencesWhy learning to talk to adults can actually get you more of what you wantWhether you’re a player, parent, or coach, this episode reminds us that while texting is convenient, real communication is a skill worth practicing. Because, as Lee puts it — “You can’t text that you’re open during a game.”📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: You Can’t Text “I’m Open!” — Why Hockey Players Need Real Conversations🏒 Tune in, talk more, and keep skating forward.#Teamwork #YouthHockey #CommunicationSkills #Leadership #LifeLessons #OurKidsPlayHockey #RideToTheRink #HockeyParents #HockeyLife #SportsmanshipClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🏒🥽Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

Ready to revolutionize your young hockey player's mindset? 🏒💪"The Ride to the Rink" serves up a game-changing episode packed with insights from PWHL star Hayley Scamurra and Coach Nick Stoop. They tackle the tough questions: How do you keep the love for hockey alive? What's the secret to performing under pressure? And why is positioning more crucial than points?🔑 Key Takeaways:Recognizing when it's time for a team changeThe power of self-awareness in youth sportsShifting focus from scoring to smart positioningMindset tricks that lead to on-ice freedomControlling the controllables: effort, mindset, and dietFrom Hayley's personal journey of switching teams to Coach Stoop's revolutionary approach to performance, this episode is a must-listen for players and parents alike. It's not just about hockey—it's about building a mindset for success in sports and life.Want to unlock your child's full potential on the ice? Tune in and discover how a simple shift in perspective can lead to incredible results. Remember, it's not about the points—it's about the position you put yourself in to succeed!🎧 Got questions? Reach out at ourkidsplayhockey.com. And don't forget to check out "When Hockey Stops" at whenhockeystops.com!📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Unlocking Your Potential Through Mindset Changes with Coach Nick Stoop#RideToTheRink #YouthHockey #HockeyMindset #SportsPsychology #BWHLClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🏒🥽Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

💬 “If your kid’s frustrated about ice time, this episode is your playbook for turning conflict into connection.”Today, Lee and Mike sit down with Jen Fry — a sports educator, inclusion consultant, and communication strategist who’s worked with organizations like the NCAA, ESPN, and the NFL — to tackle one of the hardest parts of youth sports: communication.From locker room dynamics to late-night parent frustrations, Jen shares how families, players, and coaches can build trust, transparency, and self-advocacy — even in tough moments. You’ll learn why letting kids use their own voice (even when it’s hard) leads to stronger athletes and stronger humans.🔥 Episode highlights:Why “hard conversations” are essential for growth — not something to fearThe right way for kids to ask coaches about playing timeWhy parents should journal before talking to coaches (yes, really!)How to teach advocacy skills as young as age 8The truth about locker room conflict and team cultureThe one thing coaches and parents must stop doing immediatelyWhether your child is on the first line or the bench, this conversation will help your family handle emotions, expectations, and communication like pros — on and off the ice.🎧 Tune in and learn how to turn every conversation into a coaching moment.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime?Check out our companion blog: Teaching Kids to Communicate in Hockey — Lessons from Jen Fry#YouthHockey #ParentingInSports #HockeyParents #JenFry #CommunicationSkills #OurKidsPlayHockey #SportsParenting #YouthSports #CoachingCultureClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🏒🥽Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

🎙️ Tournament season is here — are your kids really getting the most out of it?This week on The Ride To The Rink, Lee, Christie, and Mike unpack one of youth hockey’s biggest opportunities (and challenges): tournament weekends. From nerves and hotel boredom to team bonding and leadership, this episode is your playbook for making every trip unforgettable — for players and parents alike.💡 In This Episode: 🏒 Christie shares how to turn nerves into excitement and creativity on the ice. 📱 Mike explains why screens might be stealing your best memories. 👥 Lee challenges players to step up as leaders — and pull their teammates out of those hotel rooms! 🍳 Plus: The secret to building lifelong friendships at tournaments (hint: it’s not about winning).Whether it’s your first big road trip or your tenth, this conversation reminds every player: tournaments aren’t just about hockey — they’re about memories.📩 Listen now, and help your young player make this season’s tournaments the best ones yet.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: Beyond the Ice — Making the Most of Hockey Tournaments #YouthHockey #HockeyParents #HockeyTournament #TeamBonding #OurKidsPlayHockey #HockeyLife #RideToTheRink #YouthSports #Leadership #HockeyFamilyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🏒🥽Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

Welcome back to The Wraparound Roundtable – our annual celebration of the hockey community through giveaways, gratitude, and a glimpse behind the scenes of the creators who shape your kids’ hockey universe.🎉 This year, we’re kicking things up a notch. Instead of focusing on small-to-medium hockey businesses, we’re spotlighting the most influential hockey creators on the planet—the ones your kids already follow on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and beyond. From game-changing tutorials to viral highlights, these voices are shaping the culture of hockey today.In this intro episode, host Lee Elias is joined by longtime friend and legendary creator Chris Kibui of Hockey Tutorial, one of the sport’s most-followed online platforms. Together, they set the stage for a series that combines practical creator insights, authentic inspiration, and of course, incredible prizes.🎧 NEW THIS YEAR:Each week features two separate episodes, giving you two chances to win a weekly prize. That’s 10 total episodes, 10 total weekly prizes, and 10 total chances to rack up entries for the season’s grand prize!🎁 Weekly Giveaways:Green Biscuit + Puck Around PackCreator-contributed bonus prizes🏆 Grand Prize Includes:A brand new Sparx Skate SharpenerFull team set of skate deodorizersGear from Green Biscuit, Hockey Wraparound, and much more!🚨 How to Enter:Starting next week, head to hockeywraparound.com → Click the Wraparound Roundtable button → Enter each episode for more chances to win the grand prize!💡 What You’ll Learn This Season:What it really takes to become a hockey content creatorThe passion and purpose behind today’s top influencersWhy this new career path resonates with the next generation of players🎤 With guests like Chris, and many more well-known names your kids already admire, this season blends fun, education, and family-friendly hockey content that brings value to players, parents, and future creators alike.🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned—The Wraparound Roundtable starts next week!Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🏒🥽Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

🏒 Can a teammate be your greatest mentor in hockey?In this game-changing episode of Girls Play Hockey, Olympian Hayley Scamurra and Coach Nick Stoop join host Lee MJ Elias to explore the powerful impact of mentorship in youth and girls' hockey. From locker room dynamics to on-ice performance, they share invaluable insights on creating supportive environments that nurture both athletic excellence and personal growth.🔥 Highlights Include:Redefining mentorship: It's not just about age, but impact 🤝Balancing the pressure to perform with the joy of playing 🏆How coaches can foster a culture of peer-to-peer mentorship 👥Navigating the challenges of being the only girl on a boys' team 💪The unexpected long-term benefits of building connections in sports 🌟Whether you're a player looking to level up, a coach aiming to inspire, or a parent supporting your young athlete, this episode is packed with actionable advice and heartfelt stories that extend far beyond the rink.🎧 Listen now and discover how mentorship can transform your hockey journey!📱 Explore the Pro Athlete Experience platform for more mentorship opportunities.📖 Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: The Ripple Effect of Hockey Mentorship with Coach Nick Stoop#GirlsHockey #Mentorship #YouthSports #PWHL #TeamBuilding #HockeyFamilyClick To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! 🏒🥽Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. And their March offer is huge:50% off an annual plan compared to paying monthly, plus a free hockey training ball, free Green Biscuit, and free shipping.Or go all in with Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media:Facebook GroupXInstagramLinkedInYouTube

Youth hockey tournaments can be a financial trap for parents, with mandatory hotel bookings and inflated fees. The hosts discuss the frustrating aspects of these events, from unclear purposes to competitive imbalances. They emphasize the need for families to make informed choices and push back against unfair practices. Alternative models like skill-focused weekends and limited tournaments are explored, urging a shift towards development over profit. The conversation balances humor with hope, aiming to foster healthier experiences in youth hockey.