The Hockey Think Tank Podcast (thehockeythinktank)

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about getting the puck to the middle of the ice. We discuss why it is so important and how it can help you in different areas of the game.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!

Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skate Sharpening & Equipment Repair

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On this week’s episode, Topher and Jeff welcome athletic development coach, Jeremy Frisch. He’s one of the best follows on social media, and this was an unreal conversation for any parent looking to help their kids become a better athlete. His approach to training kids is truly organic and embraces long term athletic development principles.

In this episode we talk about:

— Movement, Strength & Conditioning

— Building a foundation for kids so they love being in the gym, moving, and competing

— Jeremy gives an INCREDIBLE off-ice workout for coaches of younger players; get your notebooks ready - great stuff!

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the hosts of Boston Bruins recap show "Morning Bru with Jaffe and Razor", Billy Jaffe and Andrew Raycroft! This was an awesome episode if you love to get the inside scoop of the Boston Bruins and we talk a lot of hockey as well. Some of the topics include:

-Tuukka Rask

- How the Bergeron/Marchand/Pastrnak line creates their chemistry

-Charlie McAvoy's leadership

-An UNREAL story about Brad Marchand chasing criminals...

Tune in for a fun conversation with two incredible hockey guys. Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX (gelstx.com), TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to all of our AMAZING listeners. You're gonna love this one, especially if you are a Bruins fan.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Topher and Jeff sound off on the 5 Keys to Getting Recruited. Some great insight for players and parents trying to navigate the entire process from youth hockey and beyond.

In this episode we discuss:

— Focusing on what YOU can control

— Remembering that it’s a marathon, not a sprint

— The scouting and recruiting process

— What scouts look for in a player

— What players can do to proactively get on the radar

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

This week Topher and Jeff welcome former UMD captain and eight year pro player, Jon Francisco to the podcast! Following his hockey career, he served as a firefighter for 10 years in California and Wisconsin before leaving the fire service to build Francisco Hockey & 4Check Hockey which make major impacts in hockey, training, skills and safety.

In this episode we talk about:

— Fostering passion as a parent

— Encouraging multi sport athletes and how parents can help navigate the overlap during the season

— Teaching players how to give and receive hits in today’s game

— His experience parenting a player on their journey to the NTDP

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and, our newest sponsor, Crossbar! 

And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!

This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp.

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about how to win faceoffs. Keys, techniques and the importance of understanding it takes more than just the center to win possession.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

The Hockey Think Tank Podcast is a proud member of The Hockey Podcast Network.

On this week’s episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast we talk to two of the leaders from the University of Michigan hockey team - this past season’s captain, Nolan Moyle and the upcoming 23-24 season captain, Jacob Truscott. Their paths to play for the Wolverines were so different - and the conversation is incredible. Their stories are part of what have made them such unbelievable leaders.

In this episode we discuss:

— Learning to overcome adversity

—Creating habits to be successful 

—Versatility & knowing your role on a team

— Michigan’s run for the national championship this season

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this week’s episode, Topher and Jeff welcome acclaimed author, motivational speaker, and world series champion as a mental performance coach with the St. Louis Cardinals, Dr. Jason Selk. Regarded as one of the top performance coaches in the United States, he’s worked with professional and olympic athletes as well Fortune 500 and Fortune 100 executives and organizations, training individuals and teams to develop the mental toughness necessary for high-level success.

In this episode we talk about:

— Characteristics of high achieving teams

— Effective goal-setting

— Self-confidence

— Any great coach’s biggest responsibility

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph welcomes the CEO of SkillShark, Neil Anderson, to talk about the innovative way their product makes the tryout and evaluation process so much easier and more efficient for organizers.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

As a partner of ours, remember to use our discount code Hockey20 when you visit SkillShark.com

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph’s topic is - NUTRITION. It’s such an important component for any athlete to reach their potential and Vechs HAS THOUGHTS that you’re not going to want to miss!

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

The Hockey Think Tank Podcast is a proud member of The Hockey Podcast Network

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about O-zone faceoff plays. Great stuff in this one! 

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, it’s all about HOCKEY PARENTS! Jeff & Topher talk about what some of the best hockey parents do right and answer questions they’ve received from parents over the years.

In this conversation we talk:

— The car ride home

— Burnout & injury prevention

— Life lessons that the hockey experience teaches

AND SO MUCH MORE

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. Thank you to new sponsor NordVPN - an internet streaming and security company where you can get a great discount by going to nordvpn.com/thinktank.

And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode is a great reminder that hockey is a journey for the whole family that starts and ends with a love of the game!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the Co-General Manager of the Youngstown Phantoms of the USHL and Detroit Little Caesars' 15O coach Jason Deskins! This was a great conversation as Jason has so much great perspective with all of the hats he wears in the hockey world. The boys tackle:

-Using the downs to motivate you

-What he looks for in players as a GM in junior hockey

-How to get into the business as a young coach

-GOAL SCORING

-LEADERSHIP

-So Much More

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com...and thank you to all of our AMAZING listeners!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Topher wants to talk about the cycle. While it’s not a part of the game like it used to be, we talk about how to use (and defend) it effectively in today’s game.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring back on Adam Nicholas of Stride Envy Hockey to talk about player development and his journey with the Chicago Steel as they just hoisted the Clark Cup as the USHL champions. This is the fourth time Adam has been on the podcast, and it doesn't disappoint for a second! We talk:

-Individual Player Development Plans

-Working through relationships between coaches and player development coaches

-Methods of teaching development to high level athletes

-The Chicago Steel Clark Cup run and the development relationships built with their players

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on our first ever guest to celebrate our 200th episode...Brandon Naurato!! Brandon is the current Assistant Coach for the University of Michigan and this was a conversation that didn't disappoint. We tackle:

-What it's like to coach the best young players in the world.

-Coaching the individual with coaching the team.

-Teaching how to recognize and understand pressure with making plays on the ice

-SO.MUCH.MORE!!!

We want to thank EVERY SINGLE ONE of our amazing supporters and listeners. We honestly can't believe we are at 200 episodes of the Hockey Think Tank podcast. It's incredible and it's all because of your love and support for what we are trying to accomplish in adding some positivity to the hockey world. Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com and thank you to everyone out there that continues to listen from the bottom of our hearts.

You are going to love this hockey coaching masterclass with Brandon Naurato!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Topher sits down with former Harvard University coach and Detroit Red Wings scout Rob Rassey to talk about the POWER PLAY. This was an exciting conversation full of talk on strategy, habits, tactics, and much much more on what makes a successful power play. They talk:

-Mentality vs. Tactics

-Skill sets for different roles on the PP

-Data/Analytics of every PP goal scored in an NHL Year

-So. Much. More

Thank you to our sponsors for continuing to support our podcast in GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and icehockeysystems.com. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners!!!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Rob Rassey and Ryan Ward join Topher on the Windy City Hockey Roundtable to talk POSITIONLESS HOCKEY. We feel like it's a term that is used a lot but under-defined...but can have a positive effect on your team's play and individual player development. Some of the concepts we go over include:

-Getting back and sorting out the Dzone

-Developing versatile players

-Rush and Ozone play

-MUCH MORE!!

Thank you to everyone that takes the time to listen to this episode, we hope that you'll be able to use this with your teams! Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, IceHockeySystems.com, and TrainHeroic. And thanks the most to all of our amazing listeners!!!!!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk about what it means to be hard to play against as both a player and a team.

In this episode we discuss:

— Players who never quit on the puck

— Relentlessness, speed & a good defensive stick

— Discipline, finishing checks

— Tracks, gaps & defending all the way up the ice

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites! 

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former NHLer, Zac Rinaldo. Known for his gritty and physical style of play, this was a very raw, very honest, very intense conversation about living life and doing things with no regrets.

In this conversation we talk:

— The people who most influenced Zac growing up around the game

— A competitive mindset and earning every day

— Giving back to the game

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, NordVPN and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode is a great reminder to work every day to be true to YOU and be your best self.

Check out Nord here: nordvpn.com/thinktank

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on former pro player and current NYPD Officer, Dan O’Donoghue. Growing up on Long Island, Dan’s road from youth hockey to DI - and eventually pro - was not a “traditional” path, and we talk about the life lessons learned through hockey that contributed to his success on and off the ice.

In this conversation we talk:

— Community, teamwork, and camaraderie

— Toph and Dan’s coaching days together in Syracuse (and a little about how youth hockey can be better for the kids)

— How playing high level hockey prepared Dan for a life of service in the NYPD

— The spectacle that is the NYPD vs NYFD annual hockey game

AND MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! We know you are going to love this one.

Check out Nord VPN here: nordvpn.com/thinktank

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs asks Toph his thoughts on home video sessions and what’s important for a player to focus on when watching their own video to make a positive impact in their development.

TEN MINUTES… ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

The Hockey Think Tank Podcast is a proud member of The Hockey Podcast Network

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Topher and Jeff talk to Corey Cumiskey of Humble Hockey. More than just a place to get custom team gear, Humble Hockey exists to celebrate the culture of hockey: grit, discipline, humility and integrity.

In this episode we discuss:

— The reality of youth hockey from a parent perspective

— How Humble Hockey is making a difference in the team gear space

— The unique way Humble Hockey gives back by helping KEEP kids in the game

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

This week Topher and Jeff welcome Larry Hagner from The Dad Edge podcast - and what an impactful episode this was! Truly an amazing conversation that will inspire you to be a better parent, partner, and human being.

In this episode we talk about:

— The curse of “being busy”

— Navigating the harder moments of parenthood

— Importance of taking care of yourself

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and, our newest sponsor, Crossbar! 

And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!

This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk to Brian Renfrew! Brian, currently an amateur scout for the Winnipeg Jets, won an NCAA National Championship while coaching at Michigan State, and played for Western Michigan University. He has some terrific stories, unbelievable insight, and absolutely loves our great game!

In this episode we discuss:

— Some UNREAL stories from his coaching days

— Things NHL scouts looks for in players (AND PARENTS) while scouting

— What it was like growing up playing hockey in Alaska

— The importance of competing and his passion for the game

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk about Topher's 5 P's of Leadership:

-People

-Perseverance

-Perspective

-Preparation

-Present

Although...the two talked so much about PEOPLE that there is going to be a Part 1/Part 2 on these topics. On this specific episode, Jeff and Topher talk about the importance of investing time and effort into PEOPLE and the importance of PERSEVERING in tough times. Great leaders understand these two ideals and work hard to facilitate environments to bring both to the forefront.

We love talking leadership on this podcast, and our goal is to provide you with things you can use in your journey as a leader that can help you be the best you can be!

Thank you to our sponsors - GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com. Thank you to Blue Wire Pods. And thank you to our amazing following...we know you'll enjoy this one!

This week Topher is flying solo as Jeff is on babywatch (and doing all the nesting things getting ready for her eventual arrival), so Toph decided to share some insight on a topic we get asked about A LOT: What does it take to be great?

Whether it’s on the ice, or in life away from the rink, here are some non-negotiables to be your best:

— Grit and resilience

— The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people

— Learning how to be present and understanding your why

— Responsibility and accountability 

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and, our newest sponsor, Crossbar! 

And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on a teammate of BOTH Jeff and Topher...Brian Bicek. Brian is from Chicago and played his college hockey at Western Michigan - before going onto a seven year pro career. He has been a youth hockey coach in Chicago now for almost a decade and we had an awesome conversation on all of our experiences especially coaching at the youth levels. Some of the topics we dove into include:

-How to divvy up ice time and the problems that creates

-How parents can best help their kids (and how not to hurt them)

-Laying out a foundation as a youth coach or parent for the kids

-MUCH MORE!!

Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX (gelstx.com), TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and a new sponsor through our podcast company BlueWire pods, HelloFresh. Get an awesome deal by going to hellofresh.com/thinktank16 and use the code thinktank16 to get 16 free meals...pretty sweet.

And most importantly, thank you to all of our amazing listeners!! We love you and know you'll enjoy this one with Brian Bicek

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on West Point graduate and United States Army veteran Joe Kramer! Joe played ACHA Club hockey at West Point and came on to share some of his hockey and leadership experiences with the armed forces. On this episode, we talk:

-Leadership lessons learned in the military

-How to bring a team together and build a bought in unit

-How to create a "relationship with failure"

-The benefits and experience of playing ACHA Club College Hockey

-MUCH.MORE

First and foremost, thank you to Joe for his service. Thank you also to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. This week we have another sponsor in Hello Fresh. Thank you to our podcast parent company, BlueWire Pods. And thank you to all of our amazing supporters and listeners!!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Topher asks Vechs what it means to be tough to play against, both individually and as a team. 

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Topher and Jeff talk to Sam Cheema - the Director of the Ironbound Hockey program. Sam, who now lives in NYC, is a former pro player who grew up in the UK and was a member of Great Britain’s National team.

In this episode we discuss:

— Providing opportunities for players in non-traditional markets

— A holistic approach to development

— Motivation, accountability & growth

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS - we do this podcast for YOU and appreciate you listening and sharing with your teams, players, parents and coaches!

Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we MAILBAG it and take some hockey listener questions! We had a ton of fun with this one, including questions on:

-How much hockey should kids do in the summer?

-How would you approach a coach as a kid regarding an issue you may have?

-As a coach how do you handle a parent asking you about ice time?

-Many More!!

Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, icehockeysystems.com, and to our podcast parent company BlueWire Pods. And thank you to our amazing listeners who continue to support our show!

On this week’s episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast we talk to one of Jeff’s longtime clients, Jakub Dobeš who just signed with the Montreal Canadiens after two seasons between the pipes for The Ohio State University.

In this episode we discuss:

— His journey that included leaving his home in the Czech Republic for the U.S.

— His work ethic and outlook through adversity, and the support system he found here in the states

As well as a couple of announcements:

— A cause near and dear to Toph’s heart - his fundraising event at Cornell for Racker, a school for individuals with special needs. Link to donate is here (https://www.givegab.com/p2p/racker-rivals-big-red-2023/topher-scott)

—A HUGE life-changing decision for Top and his family. Bittersweet but exciting too!

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher welcome back THIRD TIME GUEST Alyssa Gagliardi to talk all things DEFENSE! A stud in her own right (Shattuck, Cornell, Boston Pride), Alyssa offers some unreal insight on D development. An absolute must listen for coaches and players.

In this episode we discuss:

— Manipulating the play without the puck

— Learning what it means to be a defenseman in today’s game

— Creating deception to make plays

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about the importance of creating buy-in and how coaches can go about creating it early to set the team up for success by setting expectations, standards, and accountability structure early.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about the new PWHL PK “jailbreak” rule, which awards the team who scores a shorthanded goal on the PK by ending their penalty.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

The Hockey Think Tank Podcast is a proud member of The Hockey Podcast Network

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about swagger. How can teams, how can individual players earn some swagger? Winning teams have it - how can players build it?

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about the Morgan Reilly - Ridley Greig incident and get Toph’s insight on what happened, as well as the effect it may have on the next game of the Maple Leafs-Senators rivalry.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher come to you LIVE from Jeff's apartment! It was amazing to get in the same room to riff on what they believe are the most important attributes and actions of leaders in the hockey world. They talk:

-The importance of making it HARD

-Consistency is the key

-What kind of coach would you want to play for?

-MUCH, MUCH MORE!

Thank you to all of our supporters who continue to tune in every week...you guys are going to LOVE this live episode. Thanks you to our sponsors GelStx, IceHockeySystems.com, and TrainHeroic. We love you all!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about PRACTICE HABITS and Vechs is here for it! Great stuff, and a terrific reminder for any player looking to get better.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on one of Jeff's former teammates who had an unbelievable journey to the NHL...going from an undersized and undrafted player to ultimately reaching his dreams of playing in the show. We talk:

-Routine and preparation

-Playing the role of an agitator as a smaller player

-The grind of making it to the NHL.

-MUCH MORE!!

This was such an inspiring episode with a lot of nuggets for all kids that have dreams of playing at the highest levels of hockey.

Thank you to all of our sponsors - GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast platform family BlueWire.

And thank you to all of our amazing listeners!!!! We love you and can't thank you enough for all the support you've given us on our crazy podcast journey!!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher welcome the father-son dynamic duo, Jimmy & Rutger McGroarty! Jimmy coached our very own Vechs in juniors and is currently the GM for the Muskegon Lumberjacks (USHL). His son, Rutger, played for the USNTDP, was a first-round draft pick for the Winnipeg Jets, and is entering his sophomore year for the University of Michigan.

In this episode we discuss:

— The impact that coaches can have in players’ lives

— The story of Rutger’s NHL draft experience from both of their perspectives

— What strong leadership looks like

— What it was like for Rutger growing up around high level players, and then putting in the work to reach the national team (where he says the REAL work started)

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk about anything and everything hockey tryouts. They give advice to players on how to stand out and prepare, talk about the process of evaluation and scouting, what they would do if they led a tryout, and go through why the process is so complicated in the lower ages of hockey.

Thank you to our title sponsor GelStx (gelstx.com), TrainHeroic, icehockeysystems.com, and our podcast network Blue Wire. And as always, thank you to all of our amazing supporters!!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk with long-time Detroit Red Wings defenseman, Danny Dekeyser about his journey through Western Michigan University to a decade in the NHL as an undrafted free agent for his hometown team.

In this episode we discuss:

— His unconventional route in Juniors (he’s proof there is no ONE path)

— Playing for Jeff Blashill at WMU and in Detroit

— Getting to play with and practice against Kronwall, Datsyuk, Zetterberg as a young NHLer

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher welcome the captain of the Quinnipiac Bobcats, Zach Metsa. An unreal story of his start in youth hockey, to the culture at Quinnipiac that helped them earn a National Championship this season - it was a terrific conversation with so much for coaches, players and parents alike.

In this episode we discuss:

— Playing Squirt House B and jumping to AAA hockey in Milwaukee

—The difference coaches can make in the lives of their players

—Relationships, resiliency, culture

— Winning a NATTY CHAMPIONSHIP

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on 14 year professional player now leading a mentorship program for youth hockey players, Ryan Vesce! Ryan hails from Long Island, NY and played his college hockey at Cornell. He then went on to play 14 years pro over 7 different countries, including a stint with the San Jose Sharks where he scored his first professional goal on an assist from Joe Thornton (we talk about it on the pod). We also talk:

-Developing a mindset for getting out of a slump

-Some incredible prank stories

-Scoring his first NHL goal in his hometown

-The value of mentorship as you go through your journey

-MUCH MORE!

Thank you to Ves for this awesome conversation - you'll get a ton of insight into becoming an elite hockey player. Thank you also to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast parent company BlueWire Pods.

To check out Ryan's incredible Mentor Program matching up former and current professional and college players, visit https://matterhornmentors.com/

And thank you to our amazing listeners...you're going to love this episode!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about what an ideal game day schedule looks like for a player to be at their best.  

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, the boys are flying solo and talking all about building a strong youth organization culture. Topher has (re) kick-started The Hockey Think Tank and is ready to share what the team has been working on to offer support for youth organizations.

In this episode we talk about best practices for:

— Organization leadership & structure

— Culture & Team Building

— Putting “hockey” back in “Hockey Director”

— Leveraging volunteers to match passion and talents to optimize the experience for players, parents and coaches

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Visit TheHockeyThinkTank.com

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about how to handle setbacks and injuries. Every player - every person - has to learn how to navigate situations and circumstances that don’t go their way. Setbacks WILL happen, injuries WILL happen. How you deal with them will ultimately define your success on and off the ice.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Topher's topic comes from a listener’s question about how coaches can handle lopsided games - on both sides. Great discussion and ideas on lessons to take away whether you’re winning big, or learning big.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about the different ways that players prefer to tie their skates (for efficiency, speed, comfort, stability, etc.) and why.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

The Hockey Think Tank Podcast is a proud member of The Hockey Podcast Network

This week Topher and Jeff welcome Neil Lodin - the founder (and creator) of MyHockeyRankings.com - to the podcast to talk about why he REALLY started the site! We asked a lot of questions and Neil shed some incredible light on so much for us.

In this episode we talk about:

— How the algorithm works

— How teams/coaches/parents are misusing the site

— How the site can (and should) be used for development and retention

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and, our newest sponsor, Crossbar! 

And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!

This podcast is sponsored by BetterHelp.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we welcome Gordie Stafford from Shattuck-St. Mary’s. After a successful professional career, Gordie has built the premier women’s program including 9 national championships, over 250 college players (including 3 Patty Kaz winners), 29 women’s professional players, and 8 olympians in his almost 20 years at the helm.

In this episode we talk about:

— Sports psychology and helping players keep perspective

— His unique perspective going from high end player, to high end coach (both boys and girls), and being a hockey parent

— The importance of gratitude 

— Advice for parents navigating the youth hockey world

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about mandatory bus rides, players rooming together, and phone restrictions at the youth levels; what’s a good age (if any) to mandate these things and what are the considerations from a cost and logistics perspective?

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this week’s episode, Topher and Jeff are celebrating 300 episodes of the podcast! Like Toph says at the start of each episode - "a little bit of education, a little bit of inspiration," and an unbelievable experience for us each and every week for over five years!

Vechs also has a HUGE announcement at the beginning and we couldn’t be more excited for him!

In this episode we talk about some of the amazing guests we have had the opportunity to have on the podcast over the years, how they’ve impacted us, and the ways they are helping make the hockey community a better place.

As promised, here is a breakdown of some of the guests we referenced in this episode:

HOCKEY DEVELOPMENT: Adam Nicholas, Brian Keane, Adam Oates, Darryl Belfry, Dwayne Blais, Patrick O’Sullivan, Mike Kelly, Jon Lounsbury, 

PHYSICAL & MENTAL HEALTH: Mike Boyle, Brian Galivan, Matt Nichol, Don Jupp, Kelli Gast, Dr. Jason Selk, Dr. Cassidy Preston, Jon Gordon, Craig Ballantyne, Matt Caldaroni, Adam Naylor

WOMEN’S GAME: Kendall Coyne Schofield, Jocelyne & Monique Lamoureaux, Jayna Hefford,Theresa Feaster, Maura Crowell, Alyssa Gagliardi, Amanda “Mazz” Alessi, Nicole Hensley, Gordie Stafford

NHL: Alex Tuch, Al Roy, Brian Renfrew, Trent Frederic, Paul Stastny, Danny Dekeyser, Mary St. Louis, Eric Fehr, Brian Gionta, Chris Wideman, Tim Peel, Chris Butler, Chris Lazary, John Buccigross, Mark Dennehy, Ed Olczyk, Daniel Briere, Seth Appert, Ryan Hardy, Rob Schremp 

COLLEGE: Pat Ferschweiler, Mike Schafer, Rico Blasi, Brandon Naurato, Brad Berry, Jared DeMichiel, George Gwozdecky, James Marcou, Ben Syer, Juliano Pagliero, Reid Cashman, Ben Barr, Cam Ellsworth, Kris Mayotte, Leon Hayward, Greg Powers, Brent Brekke, Steve Wiedler

YOUTH HOCKEY: Brett Beebe, Bob Mancini, Chris Collins, John O’Sullivan, Mike Terwilliger, Jay Hardwick, Brian Yandle, Nick Petraglia, Roger Grillo, Tobias Johansson, Tommi Niemelä

INSPIRATION: Rickey Mendez, Tyler Parks, Jack Smiley, Josh Pauls, Mike Ratchuk

Our family episodes are some of our favorites because they helped us show you who we are at our core - our triumphs, vulnerabilities, passions, struggles, and life changes - and we would not have it any other way. So thank YOU for being on this journey with us.

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about the things that kids can do at home to work on creativity, skills, mindset, and having fun. It’s a walk down memory lane for the guys to Toph’s basement and Vechs’ garage!

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about GAPS and the importance of gapping up; Vechs loves it because he tackles the topic from the standpoint of manipulating the gap. Awesome conversation!

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs and Toph get asked this question A LOT: How can someone make a job for themselves out of hockey? They love the game, and want to make a career out of being involved - how should they attack that goal?

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about some of the common characteristics of elite players (HINT: successful people in any endeavor tend to share many of the characteristics we talk about here).

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs tackles a topic that every coach and parent has an opinion about - PHONES! The guys talk about the reality of players using their phones and how they can affect - negatively or positively - the team culture, productivity, development, and more! 

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

The Hockey Think Tank Podcast is a proud member of The Hockey Podcast Network

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on the girl who stole all of our hearts as the St. Louis Blues went on their Stanley Cup run...Laila Anderson. We all remember Laila as the inspiration for the team as she was going through chemotherapy during the teams championship playoff season in 2019. From the viral videos of her mom letting her know she could attend the games in person, to her on ice celebration with the cup, to the entire city of St. Louis chanting her name at the parade...Laila was an inspiration to us all to keep fighting. In this conversation we talk:

-Her journey through a potential terminal sickness

-Her inspiring relationships with the Blues players, especially Colton Parayko

-Getting to Boston for Game 7 of the Cup Finals

-Bethematch.org, the organization that saved her life

-An UNBELIEVABLE story with Brett Hull and Jon Hamm

-MUCH MORE

Thank you to Laila (who actually trains with Jeff) for coming on the podcast! Thank you also to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast parent company BlueWire Pods. And thank you so much to all of our amazing listeners...you are going to LOVE this episode. It's one of our absolute favorites!!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs is bringing his Twitter/X rant to the podcast with some opinions about advisors who don’t actually ADVISE.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about how parents can help their players when their confidence is low.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Topher and Jeff welcome Toph’s sister, Jessi Feld, on the podcast. Jessi is a hockey sister, a hockey mom to FOUR boys, and a long-time educator with a passion for identifying the ways kids learn.  

Jessi holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education and Master’s Degrees in Curriculum and Instruction as well as Instructional Technology and has some incredible insight on the correlation between teaching and coaching.

In this episode we talk about:

— Embracing the ways kids learn and absorb information to create an environment that’s conducive for them to thrive

— Teaching direct skills, modeling, repetition, & routines

— The importance of teaching self-advocacy, kindness, respect, self-awareness and being proactive to help build a culture of acceptable standards

AND SO MUCH MORE!

CONTEST ALERT: We have partnered with LactiGo for an awesome giveaway for our listeners! Head to the 01:50 mark at the beginning of this episode for details on how to get your hands on some LactiGo for you or your team! It's the @LactiGo Gamechanger contest with the Hockey Think Tank Podcast!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

This week Topher and Jeff devote the entire episode to some awesome questions and topics that we have received from the Hockey Think Tank Community.

If you’d like to join, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!

In this episode we talk about:

— Mentorship

— Transparency

— Cultivating your child’s passion while embracing that it’s their journey

— Development, synthetic ice, lazy coaching, problem parents, & the cost of youth hockey

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and, our newest sponsor, NHL Sense Arena! 

Visit NHL Sense Arena and use DISCOUNT CODE TANK-72A36D to get 10% off an annual plan of NHL Sense Arena.

And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about controlled breakouts - when, why, and how to use them effectively.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

This week Topher and Jeff welcome pod producer Steph to join them on the other side of the mics to get a hockey mom’s perspective on the youth hockey journey.

Steph has two kids in hockey (a daughter playing in college and a son playing 18U), a husband that coaches, she worked for her local youth association for 11 seasons, and has experience on the facilities side of our sport as well.

In this episode we talk about:

— Embracing the youth hockey journey

— How best to support your player during the highs and lows

— Staying focused on what’s best for your player’s development amidst the noise

— Acknowledging that FOMO is real, and how to navigate some of the craziness

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our title sponsor IceHockeySystems.com, as well as Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and, our newest sponsor, NHL Sense Arena! 

Visit NHL Sense Arena and use DISCOUNT CODE TANK-72A36D to get 10% off an annual plan of NHL Sense Arena.

And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

If you’d like to join our Hockey Think Tank Community, head over to Community.TheHockeyThinkTank.com and check it out!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to know some of Vechs’ battle drills. We always talk about how important it is to compete hard in practice, and battle drills are a great way to work on that skill!

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we share Topher's presentation to all college hockey coaches at the AHCA (America Hockey Coaches Association) Coaches Convention. This is the 4th year in a row that Topher has been asked to speak in front of this esteemed group of coaches, and this year he tackles what he's learned from his relationships with coaches at the highest levels of hockey. He goes through five takeaways:

1. Identity is everything
2. It's all about the people
3. Developing leaders
4. Player accountability
5. How are you spending your time?

We hope you enjoy this episode! Thank you to all of our sponsors, including GELSTX (gelstx.com), TrainHeroic App, IceHockeySystems.com, and our podcast company we are under Blue Wire Pods. Thank you so much to all of our amazing listeners who continue to push us to be better every episode. And thank you to the ACHA for allowing Topher to speak again at this convention. To get access to more awesome presentations from the convention go to ahcahockey.com.

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Topher wants to talk about BODY CHECKING! The guys tackle some of the best ways to teach how to hit, how to take a hit, and when to start introducing those concepts that will translate to success and confidence.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

The Hockey Think Tank Podcast is a proud member of The Hockey Podcast Network

On this week’s episode, Topher is flying solo and recording in person with the leaders of the boys program at Bishop Kearney Selects, from their podcast studio on campus in Rochester, NY! (Vechs says without him on the pod, it was a “slightly less hot” episode.)

Topher is joined by Chris Collins (Sr. Director of Boys Hockey Program Development), Ben McManama (Director of Player Personnel), and David Arduin (Director of Boys Hockey| Head Coach, 18U) for a terrific conversation about the various youth hockey paths.

In this episode we talk about:

— How they’ve built such a successful program in just a few short years (2 national championships in just 4 years)

— The importance of putting players in challenging and competitive situations to develop them on and off the ice

— Common characteristics that players at the highest levels possess

— Helping players and their families navigate the hockey journey

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and IceHockeySystems.com - PLUS, our newest sponsor, NHL Sense Arena! 

And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about one of the biggest kesy to our game - puck protection! 

TEN MINUTES STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this SHORT SHIFTS episode, Topher wants to talk about BREAKAWAYS and Vechs is here for it! Successful breakaways and shootout moves, including tips to increase your chances of scoring. TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we have our Windy City Storm roundtable detailing our ORGANIZATIONAL WEEKEND we executed the week prior. This ORGANIZATIONAL WEEKEND was an idea we tried getting all of our youth teams in our rink for a weekend to build our culture and get everyone excited about being part of the Windy City Storm family. Here's what we did:

-Split practices and games with an older team and younger team on the ice at the same time.

-Info sessions for our players and parents with our hockey directors

-Info session with our strength coach on off-ice philosophy

-Intrasquad games with older players coaching younger teams and vice versa.

IT WAS AWESOME!! Our hope by doing this podcast is that other youth organizations take the idea and run with it. I think over the weekend we were able to build a camaraderie with all of our teams and families and taught the players that what the crest in front of the jersey means more than the names on the back.

Check it out!!

Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. Thank you to our podcast platform BlueWire. And thank you to our amazing listeners. We know you'll get a ton out of this one!!!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher welcome former professional hockey player, Mike Radja. Mike, a former AHL player and Assistant Captain at UNH is now the head instructor at SpeedSkills Hockey doing tremendous things with player development in upstate New York!

In this episode we discuss:

— The absolute grind that being a professional athlete entails

— Chicago youth hockey days of Radja and Toph playing against each other

— Setting goals, being accountable, and finding success in your passion

— Skill development should be FUN

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on one of our most popular guests in hockey development coach Brian Keane! Keaner is a development coach to some of the top players in the world including Patrick Kane, and works as a consultant with the Chicago Blackhawks. This was an amazing episode in talking hockey, where we go through:

-How to develop better decision makers

-The curiosity of the best players in the world and why that's one of their top attributes

-Stimulating player development through failure and problem solving

-MUCH MORE!!

Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com and our podcast platform Blue Wire Pods. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners who tune in each week!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring back one of our most downloaded lost episodes and chat with IMPLEMENTATIONAL speaker, Ricky Mendez! Ricky has worked with people and companies around the world and his wisdom and knowledge were AMAZING. We talked:

-Turning negative energy into positive energy

-The power of gratitude

-How to change your mindset and treat yourself better

-MUCH MORE!

This was as motivational and inspirational of a conversations as we've had and we're grateful to be able to share Ricky's perspective with you!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. Thank you to BlueWire Pods. And thank you SO MUCH to our amazing listeners!!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher discuss how to navigate the end of a long season along with the finding the right avenues for spring and summer hockey. It's questions that they get ALL.THE.TIME from parents and thought it would be really beneficial to have a really open and honest conversation on what is happening in the hockey world during the spring and the summer. Some important topics they tackle include:

-Early sport specialization and burnout

-Using feedback as a tool for growth

-The business of youth hockey in the spring/summer

-FOMO

-Much more!!

Thank you to all of our sponsors including GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. And special thank you, thank you, thank you to all of our AMAZING listeners!!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on firefighter, paramedic and aspiring professional hockey player Kevin Porter! What an inspiring episode with someone who is stopping at nothing to achieve his dreams, even in his 40's. So much positivity and so many uplifting stories of battling adversity on this one...we talk:

-How to drown out the haters

-How a near-death experience sparked his attempt to achieve his dreams

-How a firehouse relates to a hockey locker room and culture

-So.Much.More!!

What a conversation this one was...we know you are going to enjoy the heck out of it. Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, IceHockeySystems.com, and TrainHeroic. Thank you to our podcast platform BlueWire Pods. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners who hang out with us every week!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher come loaded with questions for one another - yet the other person has no idea what the questions are. The non-scripted Q&A between the two guys end up becoming a great resource for all hockey players. Questions include:

-How important is developing a routine?

-How can you develop a goal scoring mentality?

-What is advice for players who are playing a 3rd or 4th line role on a team?

-What does being "hard to play against" mean?

This was a really fun episode for the guys and we think you are going to really enjoy it too! Thank you to all of our amazing sponsors - GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to all of our amazing supporters!!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we dive deep into OZONE PLAY! We bring on Ryan Ward, Robbie Murden, and our Director of Skills Karl Linden to talk anything and everything on the Ozone, including:

-Getting the defense involved

-Shot quantity vs quality

-The importance offensively and defensively of F3

-Using analytics to drive tactics

-Puck Protection

-A whole lot more!

This was a fun, in depth look on scoring goals and we know you'll enjoy the banter! Thank you to all of you that continue to support our podcast and we hope you'll be able to take something from this one to use with your teams.

Thank you to our sponsors as well, GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, Jeff and Topher talk to former Lake Superior State University player and current Lawrence University (DIII) Head Coach, Brett Wall. 

In this conversation we talk about:

— Coaching philosophy & development

— Motivating people 

— Leadership styles and their impact

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS! This episode has a little something for everyone and will be a terrific resource for anyone in a leadership role!

Check out our link nordvpn.com/thinktank to protect your online activity.

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on a veteran of over 1,000 professional hockey games Derek Nesbitt! What a career spanning over 16 seasons. In this conversation, we talk:

-The benefits of growing up in small town Canada

-Playing for both Jared Bednar and Derek Lalonde

-The keys to longevity in the game

-Challenges of being a youth hockey director

-MUCH MORE!

Thank you to all of our sponsors - GELSTX, TrainHeroic, IceHockeySystems.com, and Cured Nutrition. Thank you to our podcast parent company BlueWire Pods. And thank you to all of our amazing listeners for continuing to tune in every week!!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we bring on Mount St. Charles Hockey Academy Director and 18u Head Coach, Matt Plante! Fresh off winning the National Championship, Topher and Jeff sit down with Planter and go through so many different awesome topics including:

-Their National Championship Run

-Coaching Kids at 18u who have gone on to play in the NHL and what made them special

-A day in the life at a hockey prep academy

-Why surrounding yourself with good people is important

-MUCH MORE!!

Thank you to our sponsors GELSTX, TrainHeroic, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to all of our amazing supporters out there...we love you!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to continue on his topic from last week focusing on the defensive side of the puck - and this week he asks Vechs about defending 3 on 2s!

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

This week, we finally reveal the project we've been working on for months...

We've built an ONLINE COMMUNITY to connect like-minded and passionate hockey people in our great game. When Topher first started the Hockey Think Tank as a passion project, his dream was to create this type of positive, enthusiastic community...and that dream is finally a reality! Whether you are a coach, parent, or player, this community is here to help enhance your journey in the game of hockey.

As you listen to the episode, we'll reveal all the details. But here are a few things to get you started:

-There's a link at the bottom of this podcast description to take you to where you can enter your information and let us know that you are interested in joining our community. From there we'll send you all of the details on how to register.

-Each day of the week our community will have a theme to get conversations rolling for our members to collaborate and share their perspective and ideas. We will provide thought provoking prompts and then let the conversations fly. The themes include:

Motivation Mondays - How to get the most out of ourselves and our teams

Tactics Tuesdays - Learn the in's and out's of hockey development, habits, structure, drills, etc...

Wellness Wednesdays - All about your physical and mental health 

Therapy Thursdays - We'll present a topic we know people find hard to navigate in the hockey world and we'll all provide perspective on the journey

Friday Fundays - We will have fun prompts and discussion topics to increase our love for the game

Wildcard Weekends - We have some fun things planned...

-Some awesome perks for joining the community:

Access to a "10 Questions" segment with our guests that will only be hosted on our community page

Access to watch Topher and Jeff do their "Short Shifts" episodes LIVE on our community page

Access to a monthly Zoom call creating connection within our group and to have some fun

Access to major discounts from the Hockey Think Tank and Jeff's GMBM training (listen to the episode for these details)

-This community is not for people to come on and spread negativity or complain. It's about sharing ideas, gaining perspective, and making the game better one individual at a time through collaboration and positivity. With that, this will be a paid community to make sure people in here want to be here and contribute their ideas and knowledge for the betterment of the group. However...

- We are doing a week-long discount where registration to be a part of this community is 50% off!! We want to support the people who have supported us on our journey and make sure you know we love you and appreciate everything you have done for us. This deal for our Ride-or-Dies will last from Monday 1/22 - Sunday 1/28.

So go to thehockeythinktank.com TODAY, let us know you’re interested, and from there we'll get you everything you need to join our community and help change the game.

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about losing streaks and how teams that are struggling in the win column can work to turn it around, and how players can stay focused on the process to keep developing.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to break down the 1-3-1 power play. How to be successful if you’re playing it - how to stop it if you’re killing against it.  

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph’s topic is all about the pregame pep talk. Tips, timing, messaging and more!

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Topher asks Vechs to share some of his favorite small area games in practices. Since Vechs loves anything that encourages epic battles and competition, there”s some great stuff in here!

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

The Hockey Think Tank Podcast is a proud member of The Hockey Podcast Network

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about how coaches, players and parents navigate the reality of multi-sport athletes, in-season. It’s one thing to say we want our athletes to have a diverse skill set, and to say we encourage players to play multiple sports - but it’s an entirely different thing to manage that as a coach, parent and player. 

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about drill progressions and how important they are in the transfer of what you’re doing in practice translating to your team’s games.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk all things blocking shots. Ways to do it, ways to practice it, and what that kind of sacrifice says about team culture.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On this episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, we throw it back to a “10 Questions” episode (from 2020) that Topher did with Brad Berry (North Dakota Head Coach) & Mike Schafer (Cornell Head Coach) - the Co-Winners of the Spencer Penrose award as the top coaches in college hockey to talk about their seasons and their programs!

In this episode Topher asked them:

– What was it about your specific teams this year that made them special and finish 1-2 in the country?

– How important is player leadership and what are some things you do with them to build culture?

– How has investing in relationships lead to you becoming a better coach?

– What are you looking for in players when you’re evaluating on the scouting trail?

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about tryouts! What the process should look like, how many tryouts are needed, how to handle posting results, what kind of feedback, if any, should coaches give players, and more! 

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

The Hockey Think Tank Podcast is a proud member of The Hockey Podcast Network

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs asks Toph his thoughts on what age is “too young” to leave home. So many factors these days in kids deciding to leave home at younger and younger ages and the guys discuss in TEN MINUTES… ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

The Hockey Think Tank Podcast is a proud member of The Hockey Podcast Network

This week it’s a MAILBAG episode of the Hockey Think Tank podcast! Jeff and Topher tackle the AWESOME questions sent in by listeners with some bonus (and unreal) stories about their most memorable special jerseys, their first hockey fights, and so much more!

BUCKLE UP (and shoot us a DM if you have a topic or question for our next Mailbag episode)!

Thank you to our sponsors GelStx, Train-Heroic, CuredNutrition, Helios Hockey, and IceHockeySystems.com. And thank you to our AMAZING LISTENERS; We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about how to handle difficult teammates. The conversation turned to teammates that bully - and it got personal for Topher. This one struck a chord, and goes a little longer than our normal ten minutes - but it’s absolutely worth a listen!

TEN (PLUS) MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

The Hockey Think Tank Podcast is a proud member of The Hockey Podcast Network

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about tracks & gaps! A team that tracks hard is problematic for opponents because it allows the defense to gap up and create more offensive opportunities.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!

On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about 2-on-1s, offensively, and ways to work on them in practice.

TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW! 

We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating and share on your social sites!