Breakaway, The Minor Hockey Podcast
Ontario Minor Hockey Association
Subscribe
The Ontario Minor Hockey Association's Breakaway, The Minor Hockey Podcast presented by CoachThem, puts you with some of the best and brightest minds in the game today. Each week, Aaron Wilbur sits down with the leaders of hockey to discuss everything from scoring more goals to how to grow the game.
Available episodes
Newest first
Oldest first
4 days ago
Episode 123 | Supporting Mental Health in Hockey Culture (Jessica Renney and Paula McQuaid)
Let’s talk about the mental side of sports.
If there’s one thing we’ve realized during the last few months is that mental health is so important for our players. Often when we think of the mental aspects of hockey it involves grit, mental toughness and an old school mindset. What happens when the helmets and skates are back in the bag and players are back at home during the current pandemic?
The impact of missing sports as we do right now can go far beyond the actual goals and scoreboards. It’s the interacting with teammates, the physical engagement and developing the friendships.
Guest Bio: Jessica Renney and Paula McQuaid are certified Canadian psychotherapists and the co-founders MindfulAthletics
Dec 15, 2020
Episode 122 | Playing the Game the Right Way (Andre Tourigny)
When coaches talk about working hard and playing the game the right way, what exactly do they mean? Working hard isn’t just skating around the ice at full speed all game. It is a skill just like stickhandling and shooting. Determining the purpose and focus for your players is what it comes down to.
Guest Bio: Andre Tourigny - Ottawa 67's Head Coach, Team Canada World Juniors Head Coach
Dec 1, 2020
Episode 121 | Hockey's Greatest Untold Stories (James Duthie)
For a career that has spanned multiple World Junior Championships and countless seasons behind the desk during TSN Tradecentre, Duthie’s experiences have given him a different viewpoint of the minor hockey experience. Duthie’s son played in the OMHA throughout his youth and he can relate to the ups and downs of being a minor hockey parent.
Guest Bio: James Duthie, TSN Hockey Host
Nov 18, 2020
Episode 120 | The Tale of the Undersized Defenceman (Mike Weaver)
Mike Weaver never stopped working. At 5’8” and 185 lbs, many touted him as being undersized, especially for a defenceman. Weaver learned what he excelled at what he knew his skillset offered and turned it into 11 NHL seasons manning the blueline. Now retired, the Brampton native has taken on his next challenge as co-founder and CEO of CoachThem.
Guest Bio: Mike Weaver, former NHL d-man and now co-founder and CEO of CoachThem
Nov 4, 2020
Episode 119 | Position Specialization – What Not to Do (Jamie Storr)
Kids don’t improve based on the outcome of games. They grow in an environment where emphasis is placed on deliberate skill development and hard work. Jamie Storr isn’t afraid to think outside the box when it comes to minor hockey.
Guest Bio: Jamie Storr - former NHL goalie and now the co-owner, President and General Manager and Head Coach of the Oakville Blades
Oct 20, 2020
Episode 118 | A Stanley Cup Champ’s Advice for Minor Hockey Players (Barclay Goodrow)
It’s the dream of any hockey player around the world: to win the Stanley Cup. Few are lucky enough to call themselves champions and it’s always a special moment when someone from your own backyard gets the honour of raising the trophy above their heads.
That’s the case for Aurora native and OMHA grad Barclay Goodrow, capturing Lord Stanley’s mug with the Tampa Bay Lightning a few short weeks ago. Still on the high of winning the Cup, the forward took some time to reflect on his years playing in the OMHA.
Guest Bio: Barclay Goodrow, Tampa Bay Lightning forward
Oct 8, 2020
Episode 117 | Social Media's Impact on Today's Players (Mike McKenzie)
Social media has become an everyday part of our lives, even more than that, it’s something that we check every few hours. With the ability to connect with all of our friends and teammates across multiple platforms, sharing pictures, notes and messages has never been easier. However, there is also a negative side to constantly being aware of what is being said about you.
Guest Bio: Mike McKenzie, GM and Head Coach of the Kitchener Rangers
Apr 22, 2020
Episode 116 | Why Player Evaluations Are Important (Aaron Wilbur)
All players, parents and coaches can agree that setting achievable goals is important to the overall success of the season. Often times those goals focus on winning a certain amount of games or making it to a certain round of the playoffs but at the minor hockey level, the focus should always be on player development and celebrating skill achievement. Having a method of measuring success beyond wins and losses is an important tool for each team.
Guest Bio: Aaron Wilbur, Founder of The Coaches Site
Apr 7, 2020
Episode 115 | How Players Can Be Taught the Intangible Hockey Sense (Chris Wilson)
Hockey sense can be described as a group of cognitive skills like situational awareness, decision making and anticipation that players can execute while on the ice. It’s the mental side of the game that can be overlooked when thinking about skill improvement.
Guest Bio: Chris Wilson, Hockey Intelligym
Mar 25, 2020
Episode 114 | Coaching Beyond the Xs and Os (Wayne McNeil)
The goal of Respect Group is to educate participants on where to draw the line. It provides definition and shows how subtle examples can evolve into problems. They work to identify BAHD Behaviour - Bullying, Abuse, Harassment, Discrimination – with education and tools on how to see it and properly intervene.
Guest Bio: Wayne McNeil, co-founder of Respect Group
Mar 10, 2020
Episode 113 | What It Takes to Lead Today’s Players (Ken Hitchcock)
Over his near 25 years as an NHL head coach, Ken Hitchcock has seen firsthand how every generation of players brings a new set of challenges to a staff. What players want from coaches, how they respond and how best to connect with them has all changed.
Guest Bio: Ken Hitchcock, Stanley Cup winning coach
Feb 25, 2020
Episode 112 | What to Look for in an Off-Ice Training Program (Mark Fitzgerald)
Like all sports, hockey provides an environment where children can be active in a safe, positive environment. Using athletics to build on basic movement skills is crucial for later in life. Understanding what to do, doing it correctly and when the best time for it is can help players avoid injury. It provides a foundation for what can be strengthened as players grow older.
Guest Bio: Mark Fitzgerald - former Anaheim Ducks Strength and Conditioning Coach
Feb 12, 2020
Episode 111 | What The 'New Normal' Means for the Minor Hockey Experience (Scott Smith)
We all love the sport of hockey. There is no doubt about it. That’s why when a new idea is introduced the process of change can be a challenge. The first step in any change is determining its value and benefits. It needs to start with the purpose or intended advancement.
Guest Bio: Scott Smith - President and COO of Hockey Canada
Jan 28, 2020
Episode 110 | How Coaches Can Be Life Long Learners (Wayne Parro)
The impact a coach can make on a child’s hockey experience can be life-changing. It is also constantly evolving. It’s not necessarily the rules of the game that have changed but how athletes learn and how we coach has grown over time.
Guest Bio: Wayne Parro – Senior Coaching Consultant, Coaching Association of Canada
Jan 16, 2020
Episode 109 | The Common Theme in Great Coaches (John O'Sullivan)
Over his time as founder of Changing the Game Project, John O'Sullivan has spoken sports scientists and researchers, youth and professional coaches. In his new book Every Moment Matters he explains the common theme of what makes a great coach. Here's a hint: it's more than the wins and losses.
Guest Bio: John O'Sullivan, Changing the Game Project
Dec 18, 2019
Episode 108 | What I Loved About Coaching Minor Hockey (Bob McKenzie)
Bob McKenzie has seen and done it all in the hockey world. Now a respected TSN Hockey Insider with over 35 years of experience, McKenzie rewound the clock and took a look back at how the game has changed since he was a minor hockey parent and coach in the OMHA.
Guest Bio: Bob McKenzie, TSN Hockey Insider
Dec 5, 2019
Episode 107 | Hit. Stop. Sit. (Michael Dundas)
Youth sports should be a source of positive education and physical activity in a fun, safe environment. Keeping players healthy is a top priority for all officials and associations. Learning more about concussions and brain injuries through Rowan's Law creates awareness for players, parents game officials and team officials to recognize the signs and understand the importance of what's needed to return to play safely.
Guest Bio: Michael Dundas is the Manager, Hockey Development at the Ontario Minor Hockey Association
Nov 21, 2019
Episode 106 | How Coaches and the Parent Group Can Work Together (Aaron Wilbur)
There are so many factors in getting someone on the ice. It takes a commitment from players, coaches and administrators to be willing to dedicate the time and effort necessary to ensure everyone has a positive experience. However, none of that is possible without the most key decision maker – the parents. They impact the choice of registration, making sure their kids get to the rink, and have a voice in all of the major decisions. Parents want to know if their kids are going to be safe and have fun while learning new skills in our great sport.
Guest Bio: Aaron Wilbur, Founder of The Coaches Site
Nov 5, 2019
Episode 105 | Improving the Player-Coach Relationship (Ray Ferraro)
A minor hockey coach spends almost as much with the players as their parents do. They hold the keys for unlocking their skill development and teaching them important life lessons. The core of the player-coach relationship is a mutual respect and the knowledge that the coach has the player's back.
Guest Bio: Ray Ferraro, TSN Hockey Analyst
Oct 22, 2019
Episode 104 | Adding a Simple Tweak to Your Favourite Drills (Corey McNabb)
Any time you add a simple tweak to a standard drill it gives the opportunity to teach both the offensive and defensive side of the game. On offence, whether you’re working on hands or moves or creativity, kids learn where they have to put the puck so someone can’t take it away. On the other side of the puck, if you don’t have the puck and you’re actually chasing someone, you have to learn how to position your body and your stick so you can get it back. Incorporating those things into practice can translate it into games.
Guest Bio: Corey McNabb is the Director of Player Development for Hockey Canada.
Oct 8, 2019
Episode 103 | Creating More Offence in Front of the Net (Dave Manning)
Every goal counts the same on the scoreboard. When the puck finds its way into the back of the net, there’s no reason not to celebrate. Coaches and players are always looking for the most efficient ways to score, and working on the most effective methods in practice can help lead to more success on the ice.
Guest Bio: Dave Manning is the Head Coach of St. Andrew’s College in Aurora.
Sep 24, 2019
Episode 102 | No Laps, No Lines, No Lectures (Dave Starman)
Change can be tough to go through. There's a comfort in what's always been done. You need patience to see the results. It's been 10 years since USA Hockey unveiled it's American Development Model for the betterment of the sport to keep kids in the game. It worked - and here's how.
Guest Bio: Dave Starman is a pro scout with the Montreal Canadiens, Tier 1 Coaching Development Director for PAL Jr Islanders, and USA Hockey’s Coaching Education Program.
Apr 30, 2019
Episode 101 | The Confidence Formula
What makes physical literacy unique is the emphasis on developing not only kids’ fundamental movement skills, but also their confidence and joy of moving. The recipe of skills, confidence, and joy is the secret to giving children what they need to be active for life. If your purpose as a minor hockey coach is to help develop “hockey players for life,” you need to develop these three pillars through your coaching.
Guest: Richard Monette, Managing Director for Active for Life
Apr 16, 2019
Episode 100 | An NHL Assistant Coach Weighs in on Development
As an assistant coach with the Winnipeg Jets, Todd Woodcroft is very familiar with the high-level talent from across the hockey universe. He’s worked in a variety of roles including Assistant Coach with the Swedish, Belarus, Swiss and Canadian Men’s National Teams. Over the years he’s been able to pick up and learn how countries are developing players from a grassroots level.
Guest: Todd Woodcroft, Winnipeg Jets Assistant Coach
Apr 2, 2019
Episode 99 | Effectively Using Video as a Teaching Tool
Today's players consume more information through a screen than ever before. With video being such a prominent resource there is a fine line for minor hockey coaches in terms of using it as a teaching and feedback tool. While different tactics are key to success, it’s all about developing strong instincts.
Guest: Aaron Wilbur, The Coaches Site Founder
Mar 19, 2019
Episode 98 | Player Pathways
The past few years Hockey Canada has been changing the look of minor hockey across the country. These Player Pathways aren't a significant change but rather just a different way of looking at age-appropriate skill development.
Guest: Paul Carson, Vice-President - Hockey Development with Hockey Canada
Mar 6, 2019
Episode 97 | Redefining Modern Hockey Tactics
Every team wants to win. To win you have to score goals. For players to succeed, they have to be challenged and they have to be continually developing and refining their skill set as they move up through the ranks in youth hockey. Finding the purpose into why a team plays the way they do can lead to more focused development and gameplanning.
Feb 19, 2019
Episode 96 | Our Country’s Evolving Relationship with Hockey
One of the challenges facing hockey at the grassroots level is how to attract new families to the game.
Sean Fitz Gerald, Managing Editor of The Athletic Toronto is working on a project that explores the status of the game today across the country. Hockey is woven into the sporting fabric of what it means to be Canadian and his work looks at what associations are doing to grow the game and let people into what he describes as a ‘bubble’ around the sport.
Feb 6, 2019
Episode 95 | Teaching Good Offensive Habits
It’s the name of the game, scoring goals… and at the end of the day, more goals are the payoff we are all looking for. Goals don’t only help team success, they instill confidence in players, they fuel a fun environment and keep kids coming back to the rink.
Guest: Guy Gadowsky, a former National Team Member and 20 year NCAA Division One Head Coach. Current Head Coach of Penn State’s Hockey Program whose high-powered offense leads the NCAA for goals scored this season.
Jan 22, 2019
Episode 94 | "The Goal Was to See Where Hockey Could Take Me"
Dave Poulin has done it all in the hockey world. He's been an NHL player, general manager and a college coach while never losing his love for the game. This is his story.
Jan 8, 2019
Episode 93 | The Most Important Line on the Ice You've Never Heard Of
It's the most important line on the ice and you've likely never heard of it. What is the Royal Road?
Chris Boyle and Steve Valliquette have identified what they believe is the most important line on the ice, the line he believes supports the existence of shot quality. This is a rebroadcast of Episode 25, one of Breakaway's most popular episode.
Dec 11, 2018
Episode 92 | Making an Impact as a Coach
What do you remember about a coach you had in minor hockey?
All coaches hope to make a positive impact on their players. Coaches are going to leave a memory by the end of the season. Similar to teachers, coaches have the ability to make an imprint on players, whether positive or negative, simply based on the amount of time spent together. Guest: Mike Bara, Manager, Coaching Development with Hockey Canada
Nov 27, 2018
Episode 91 | All Players Can Benefit From Small Area Games
One of the buzzwords in the last couple of years in hockey is Small Area Games. Players of any age or skill level can enjoy this great way to incorporate competition into practices. With an increased tempo, engagement and fun, these games check all the boxes for what coaches want. Joe Birch, the Senior Director of Hockey Development and Special Events with Ontario Hockey League discusses the benefits of Small Area Games.
Nov 13, 2018
Episode 90 | The Buzzword of 'Culture'
'Culture' is one of the most popular buzzwords in all of sports. But what does it mean? Coaches need to learn how to improve emotional bonds and engagement while understanding how these factors improve athlete performance. It starts with communicating expectations to players and parents.
Oct 30, 2018
Episode 89 | Building a Toolbox of Necessary Skills
In the sport of hockey the environment is constantly changing which forces players to continually adapt. The importance of developing decision-making skills and building a toolbox to deliver the necessary skill at the necessary time is something that can make the difference in our game.
Oct 16, 2018
Episode 88 | Establishing a Style of Play Through Practice
A common topic amongst professional coaches is their team philosophy or their ‘style of play’. Having a clear ‘style of play’ from the beginning is an important foundation to have as a coach at the minor hockey level as it allows you to build practices to help achieve your ‘vision’ of how you want the game to be played.
Oct 2, 2018
Episode 87 | The Difference Between Success and Winning
As a hockey parent, we all want our kids to be on teams that are prepared and encouraged to win games, tournaments and competitions at every level. Winning, a crucial part of a player’s development journey and success at any level helps breed confidence for the future but at the most critical years of development, winning shouldn’t be the ultimate aim. The individual development of the young players should be the priority, meaning the decisions that aid the development of all players at the cost of an isolated result should be taken. How much do we push winning?
Sep 18, 2018
Episode 86 | Maximizing Practice Time
Running a hockey practice isn’t always easy. Trying to get everyone moving, playing and learning cooperatively can be a challenge, even for the most experienced and confident coaches. Every group of kids is different. One of the most important jobs of coaches is maximizing the limited amount of practice time while providing the most development for players.
Apr 24, 2018
Episode 85 | Reducing Costs in the Hockey Budget
Organized sports are one of the many ways we can help our kids develop character, build friendships and stay active and healthy. But for many of us, the high price of these activities can put a strain on finances. Our sport is one that gets constant attention for its cost to play.
With equipment, registration and ice costs, the price of playing hockey can add up quickly. However, there are a number of ways that associations and teams can balance the hockey budget by determining what’s important to spend money on from an individual and team perspective.
Apr 10, 2018
Episode 84 | Using Hockey to Build Communities
Teaching life lessons at an early age is key to a life of success. How those lessons are acknowledged is important for shaping the person to become the best that they can be. All of us connected to Hockey see the values it instills in our youth. From commitment, to work ethic to team work, hockey is a valuable tool to teach life skills beyond the game itself. A man who continues to teach those life skills off the ice post-career is Adam Graves, a two-time Stanley Cup Winner and the Vice Chair of Smilezone.
Mar 27, 2018
Episode 83 | How often should teams scrimmage during practice?
"Hey Coach! Are we scrimmaging today?"
Every coach, before every practice is asked this exact question. We asked two experts how to best answer this question along with some other great insights into how to best use your ice and practice time
Mar 13, 2018
Episode 82 | The Importance of 'Grit' in Talent Development
Malcolm Gladwell popularized the 10,000-Hour rule and immediately parents latched on to the idea that if they want their child to excel in sports, they needed to get these 10,000 hours in before his 10th birthday.
What doesn’t come up when defining the 10,000 hour rule are the defining features of deliberate practice, the pillars of skill development and talent. For Dr. Justin Davis, grit might equal deliberate practice, but grit doesn’t necessarily equal creativity.
Feb 27, 2018
Episode 81 | Do You Need a Captain in Minor Hockey?
Picking a captain is one of hockey’s oldest traditions. At the older age groups they are the role model for the rest of their teammates and can act as a liaison and line of communication between the coaching staff and players. But what is the best way to determine when the right age is to start naming a captain?
Feb 13, 2018
Episode 80 | Grassroots to Gold
In the lead up to the recent World Juniors, Sunaya Sapurji began to a look at how those teens were developed by their various nations. As the interview process progressed, however, it became clear that many of the governing hockey federations she spoke to had more or less the same guiding principles for their programs. Where they differed was in their development models themselves or in the challenges they're facing.
Jan 30, 2018
Episode 79 | When Should Players Pick a Position?
Figuring out which position your child will play is typically easy when they're still young—it often translates to what they want to do most: score goals. But despite the allure of knocking in that game-winning goal, not everyone can be a forward. As your child grows older and moves away from the pack of 10 chasing the puck, positions become more defined and more important.
Jan 16, 2018
Episode 78 | What Makes a Good Coach?
The differences between a good coach and a great one at the grassroots level may be subtle, but they can make a world of difference to players. While knowledge of the game, ability to demonstrate drills and organizational skills are important, what actually separates the best from the rest?
Dec 12, 2017
Episode 77 | Having Fun in a Scaled Hockey Environment
There’s a hot debate going on in many hockey rinks right now, and that is whether younger players are better off playing cross-ice or full-ice games.
Stats don't lie, Long Term-Athlete Development research tells us kids need more interaction in their games, which is exactly what cross-ice hockey does. Many minor hockey associations across Canada and USA have mandated cross-ice games.
Nov 28, 2017
Episode 76 | Should we ever shorten the bench in minor hockey?
Coaches at every level can be tempted to 'go for the win.' At the minor hockey level, the decision to shorten the bench to squeeze out an extra win sends the wrong message. Taking away ice time in any situation just might take away interest in the sport altogether. A coach skipping over the third line in the final minutes of a tight game may not seem like a big deal to an adult. But the sweetness of whatever victory gained from such a move likely will still taste sour to all those kids deemed not worthy of playing.
Nov 14, 2017
Episode 75 | How Mindfulness Can Bring Success on the Ice
When hockey players discuss their sport it is often about the physical aspect of the game – the skating, shooting, scouting opponents. The mental aspect of the game can sometimes be overlooked because that’s more of a personal factor and doesn’t affect the team as a whole. But what if players could improve how they perform on the ice simply by taking a few minutes to focus on their mindfulness?
Oct 31, 2017
Episode 74 | How do we introduce Body Checking?
In 2013, Hockey Canada announced that bodychecking would be introduced at the Bantam age group which sparked a large debate about the right age to introduce this skill. What was the reason behind the change?
Oct 17, 2017
Episode 73 | How I Raised My Hockey Family
Hockey is a sport that brings families together. From the early mornings at the rink to the road trips for weekend tournaments, the sport keeps everyone involved. Sal Caggiula is the father of Ajax-Pickering Raiders grad and Edmonton Oilers forward Drake Caggiula and of current OMHA referee Brody Caggiula and is very familiar with the topic.
Oct 3, 2017
Episode 72 | The Vital Role of Officials
Officials perform a vital role in the game. At all levels, they are the third team on the ice, without whom the game would not happen. Dave Wedlake, Chair of the OMHA Referee program is here to discuss the role of the official.
Sep 19, 2017
Episode 71 | The Impact of a 'Win at All Costs' Mentality
It’s no secret that at the highest levels of sport some athletes, trainers, coaches and administrators do whatever it takes to win. But in an era where that can been seen and emulated within our local sports leagues, and sometimes even in to our own backyards, is it time we ask the question: Is the win-at-all-costs mindset ruining youth sports?
May 5, 2017
Episode 70 | Wrapping Up Season Two
We look back on season two of Breakaway, The Minor Hockey Podcast. Thanks for listening, we will see you next fall!
Apr 28, 2017
Episode 69 | Why Hockey School Is A Good Idea
The summer months can be used for a number of purposes; relaxing after a long school year and hockey season, trying new activities, going on vacation. Stepping away from the rink in the off-season can be beneficial for a hockey player and playing other sports during this time helps to build a more complete, well-rounded athlete. There are a number of hockey schools available across the province this summer that can provide players with added skills ahead of the upcoming pre-season. If you are interested in possibly signing up for one, it is important to do proper research before registering. There are quality hockey schools that exist but finding the right fit only adds to the experience.
Apr 6, 2017
Episode 68 | Monitoring Success: How To Evaluate Minor Hockey Players
Placing players on teams is one thing, but what you do with those players once the teams are formed is another. Many Canadian communities only have enough players for one team in each age category, others have many teams in each age category, thus tiering occurs. Whether you have one team or multiple teams in each category, player evaluation can still be used, and should still be used as a way of developing players. Tyler Dietrich, Hockey Canada’s Manager, Hockey Operations, Analytics & Video Coach joins us to discuss the best way to evaluate minor hockey players.
Mar 30, 2017
Episode 67 | Why The Dump & Chase Is Killing Skill (Rebroadcast)
The strategy: Give up the puck as quickly as you can, and see if the opponent has the skill to break out of their end against the forecheck.
Former professional player and current Video Coach for the Toronto Marlies, Justin Bourne explains why the dump and chase is killing skill in minor hockey.
Mar 23, 2017
Episode 66 | Shrinking the Playing Surface to Match the Age Group
It’s tough to imagine yourself on the ice as a Tyke or Novice player, but try to remember what it was like. From their point of view, standing on one end of the rink and looking down to the other can feel like the distance is almost miles away. Younger players become exhausted easier because the ice surface they play on is too big for where they are in their development. Some solutions to fix this are by using small-area games during practices, and there are many unique ways for coaches to implement these new elements.
Mar 16, 2017
Episode 65 | When Dad is Coach
Coaching a team can be difficult. When your own kids are playing on the squad this difficult task becomes even more challenging. While all parents get involved with coaching their kid’s team for all the right reasons, there are times when their hearts may get in the way of doing what’s best for the team as a whole, or even doing what’s best for their child. Former NHLer, Rob Pearson joins us to talk about his playing days and coaching his son.
Mar 9, 2017
Episode 64 | Building Hockey Community
From coast to coast many of us at the office, online or over the neighbours fence, talk about the former night’s hockey game as commonly as we do the weather. Despite many kids playing our sport, we need to continue to look at ways of growing the game to appeal to young families that are not currently involved, especially now that they have more options for recreational activities than ever before.
Mar 2, 2017
Episode 63 | When In Doubt, Sit Out
Concussion has become the #1 Googled medical conditions over the past several years. Many famous athletes such as Eric Lindros, Sidney Crosby, and Chris Pronger have brought well needed attention to a medical issue that has affected multiple athletes irrespective of age. There have been many important advances in our knowledge of concussions, including how to identify, manage and recover from a concussion. Dr. Shannon Bauman has been caring for athletes of all levels for the last 10 years, from recreational athletes to professional and national level competitors.
Feb 23, 2017
Episode 62 | Where do Goals Come From?
Ask any NHL coach what is the hardest skill or attribute to find and they’ll tell you it’s goal scoring. Fifty goals in a season used be a benchmark for goal scorers. Now-a-days fifty goals is reserved for the super elite and one thirty goal season will turn an average player into an All-Star. OHL Video Coach, Brendan Taylor explains how as the game has gotten faster, the time available to make plays has been reduced; in particular, around the net where goals are usually scored.
Feb 17, 2017
Episode 61 | Talent VS Potential
At any given level of sport, the most talented athlete at that level will get lots of praise. The trouble with judging talent is that what makes one person more talented at each level is subject to change. Talent is important but not the most important factor for furthering success.
Feb 9, 2017
Episode 60 | Tales with the Stanley Cup
Since 1995, the Stanley Cup has spent its summers travelling around the globe as the special guest of the NHL's championship team, its players, and management. Each Stanley Cup champion assumes possession of the trophy for one day of celebration and touring. Phil Pritchard is along for the ride as the official Stanley Cup chaperone — no one gets closer!
Feb 3, 2017
Episode 59 | The Secret Ingredient to Great Coaching
Many coaches think that coaching is all about X’s and O’s, but the truth is that it is all about growing great relationships. The secret to great coaching and a successful performance by one’s team isn’t simply technique, or tactics, or fitness. Most coaches only look at potential and behavior (genetics, hours and quality of practice, attitude, coaching, fitness, etc.). These are incredibly important components, but they are not the whole equation.
Jan 26, 2017
Episode 58 - Revisiting the Royal Road
It's the most important line on the ice and you've likely never heard of it. What is the Royal Road?
Jan 19, 2017
Episode 57 | 99 Stories from the Great One
From minor-hockey phenomenon to Hall of Fame sensation, Wayne Gretzky rewrote the record books, his accomplishments becoming the stuff of legend. Dubbed “The Great One,” he is considered by many to be the greatest hockey player who ever lived. No one has seen more of the game than he has—but he has never discussed in depth just what it was he saw.
Jan 12, 2017
Episode 56 | Foundations for Skill Development
The way in which we engage kids and teach sports has powerful implications on their long term success on and off the ice. The Longer Term Player Development Model was written as a roadmap and continues to evolve so every athlete is given a meaningful, enjoyable experience. Peter McBride is an assistant coach with the University of Toronto (men’s hockey team), as well as the coach mentor for Newmarket Minor Hockey Association and joins us this week.
Jan 5, 2017
Episode 55 | Why Do The "Best" Coaches Teach The Most Elite?
When it comes to coaching our youth, why do we make the coaches with the highest level of qualification coach at the most elite levels and leave it to often less experienced coaches to truly teach the fundamentals of our sport?
Dec 29, 2016
Episode 54 | Bob McKenzie: Hockey Confidential
Bob McKenzie’s life revolves around all things puck. With over 30 years in hockey media he has earned the moniker as hockey's 'Insider', breaking news and relaying information to droves of hockey fans on a daily basis. Bob has two best-selling books and has recently started a podcast of his own. We chat with him about all things hockey.
Dec 22, 2016
Episode 53 | Best Holiday Hockey Memories
From the annual World Juniors tournament to new equipment or tickets to a game, even heading to a holiday tournament, everybody has different hockey memories around from around the holidays.
Dec 15, 2016
EPISODE 52 | The World Juinor Holiday Tradition
The World Junior Championships have always been a holiday tradition and this year is shaping up to be no different. Between servings of family dinners and large scale games of pond hockey, it’s safe to say many classic World Junior moments have had a lasting impression on everyone that enjoys our great game including TSN Insider, Darren Dreger who joins us this week.
Dec 8, 2016
Episode 51 | Life Skills that Hockey Builds
With higher standards and more hockey-educated coaches involved in minor hockey today than ever before, it is often easy to overlook the fact that simple life fundamentals are just as important as the X’s and O’s, the perfect practice plan, or the best game strategy. Gord Stellick is a passionate hockey dad has been working on a three part series of life skills that hockey teaches for Hometown Hockey Magazine.
Dec 1, 2016
Episode 50 | How Hockey Creates Community
Hockey is the fabric of our country and the cornerstone of every community and few people know that better than Ron MacLean. It is a key part of our national identity and consumes us from early morning practices to the late game on Hockey Night in Canada every Saturday night. For Canadians, it is more than a sport, it is the thing that ties the community together.
Nov 24, 2016
Episode 49 | Playing Every Position
The overemphasis of winning takes over our sports to the degree that most coaches will position players as young as five and keep them in that pigeonhole during practice and games for a whole season. This is done to maximize the team’s chances of winning the next league or scheduled tournament. Unfortunately the end result is a player who sees the game from only one perspective and learns only the limited skills, tactics, fitness and psychology demanded of that position
Nov 17, 2016
Episode 48 - Shortening the Bench
Coaches at every level can be tempted to 'go for the win.' At the minor hockey level, the decision to shorten the bench to squeeze out an extra win sends the wrong message. Taking away ice time in any situation just might take away interest in the sport altogether. A coach skipping over the third line in the final minutes of a tight game may not seem like a big deal to an adult. But the sweetness of whatever victory gained from such a move likely will still taste sour to all those kids deemed not worthy of playing.
Nov 10, 2016
EPISODE 47 | The Science of Skill Development
Getting better isn’t pretty. Trevor Ragan says that his fascination with learning has sent him on the most incredible journey of his life, and that during his crusade, he’s discovered some important concepts that have totally changed the way he looks at the world. Trevor believes that a growth mindset is the key to success in learning.
Nov 3, 2016
Episode 46 | Age Appropriate Off-Ice Training
Age appropriate off-ice activities can help a child to grow and develop their on-ice skills but knowing the right skills to teach and train is the name of the game. It is important for coaches and parents to gain an understanding of how children learn and how sports skills will relate to their interpersonal life skills.
Oct 27, 2016
Episode 45 | Hockey Card Stories
Ken Reid, co-anchor of Sportsnet Connected, has been a huge sports fan and hockey card collector since he was a kid growing up in Nova Scotia. After accumulating 40,000 hockey cards and filling a closet at home in Toronto, he became interested in the stories behind those hockey cards. We chat hockey cards with Ken and discuss his first book titled “Hockey Card Stories.”
Oct 20, 2016
Episode 44 | Evolving Role of Defencemen
The position of defencemen is being redefined. The terms ‘stay at home defenceman’ or ‘defensive defenceman’ have become popular in the hockey community, but the players that have gained the reputation matching those terms are vastly becoming castaways due to the increased importance of the transition game starting at defence.
Oct 13, 2016
Episode 43 | The 10,000 Hour Rule
Dr. Anders Ericsson, a psychology professor out of Florida State University, conducted a study and came to the conclusion that it takes 10,000 hours of dedicated practice to become an expert in whatever you were working on.
Oct 6, 2016
EPISODE 42 | FUELING 3RD PERIOD PERFORMANCE
Whether you’re a serious athlete or a recreational exerciser, it’s important to make sure you get the right amount of water before, during, and after exercise. Water regulates your body temperature and lubricates your joints. It also helps transport nutrients to give you energy and keep you healthy. If you’re not properly hydrated, your body can’t perform at its highest level.
Oct 1, 2016
EPISODE 41 | Preparing for Body Contact
Checking is a critical skill in the game of hockey that when performed properly can create quality scoring opportunities or help a team regain control of the puck. Just like skating, puck control, passing and shooting there are key progressions to the skill of checking when taught effectively, can greatly enhance a player's enjoyment of the great game of hockey.
A common misconception is that the skill of checking begins at a certain age or age category of play. As with all skills, checking is a progression that begins the first time a young player steps on the ice. Each step builds upon the previous step and brings the hockey player that much closer to being able to give and receive body checks competently and confidently.
Hockey Canada's Corey McNabb joins us this week on Breakaway, the Minor Hockey Podcast.
Sep 22, 2016
Episode 40 | Making the Most of Practice Time
With some teams having limited ice time, how can coaches make the most of practice? Stan Butler is the Head Coach of the North Bay Battalion and is the longest serving coach in the Ontario Hockey League with one team and joins the Breakaway Podcast.
Sep 15, 2016
EPISODE 39 | What Makes A Great Coach
In today’s game Coaches are responsible for developing athletes’ mental, physical, technical, and tactical abilities, and in addition to all of these responsibilities, there is an underlying expectation to win. When it comes to judging coaching performance, the player’s perspective can be easily overlooked at the grassroots level. Jeremy Cross is the Director of Coach Development at the Coaches Association of Ontario and joins us to discuss what makes a great coach.
Sep 8, 2016
EPISODE 38 | The Great Trophy Debate
Should youth sports organizations be providing players with trophies and medals simply for showing up?
Sep 1, 2016
EPISODE 37 | Are Our Kids too Tired to Move?
Emerging research, which spurred Canada to develop the world’s first 24-Hour Movement Guidelines, shows that physical activity, sedentary behaviour – and sleep – are closely interrelated.
Apr 29, 2016
EPISODE 36 | The final buzzer sounds on season 1 of Breakaway
The final buzzer sounds on season 1 of Breakaway, the Minor Hockey Podcast. Stay tuned for updates and a new season starting in September.
Apr 21, 2016
EPISODE 35 | Will My Kid Fall Behind Without Playing Summer Hockey
It’s a simple truth; if you’re the parent of a kid who shows some promise in the game of hockey, there’s enormous pressure to extend his or her season beyond March and into June, perhaps with a summer hockey school tossed in for good measure. Corey McNabb, Director of Hockey Development Programs for Hockey Canada discusses the pros and cons of summer hockey.
Apr 14, 2016
EPISODE 34 | The Tipping Point in Youth Sports
What happens to us parents and coaches that turns us from sensible, relaxed people to stressed out adults roaming up and down sports sidelines and screaming at every play? John O'Sullivan is the Founder of the Changing the Game Project and author of two #1 bestselling books on parenting athletes.
Apr 7, 2016
EPISODE 33 | Player Evaluation & Tryout Selection
Player evaluation and placement, like player development, is a process - effective management of the process will make a young players experience in hockey a more positive one. David Manning, Head Coach of St. Andrews College in Newmarket joins us to share some tips on providing players with the best possible experience in an environment where they can grow as hockey players and young people
Mar 31, 2016
EPISODE 32 | What Players Need to Succeed At the Next Level
The intangibles of sports are always the toughest to determine success in. There are so many factors that go into creating great hockey players but there is no magic formula that exists for someone to copy. Joe Birch, Senior Director of Hockey Development and Special Events for the OHL tells us what players need to succeed.
Mar 24, 2016
EPISODE 31 | Coaching your kids team
Most parents coach their kids’ hockey team because they want to spend quality time together. Others want to give back to the game, or because they learned the game from their parents. Some may feel that since they’re going to be at the rink anyway, why not help out on the ice.
NHL veteran of 14 years and over 900 games, Matthew Barnaby now dedicates his time to coaching his sons’ hockey team and gives his perspective and some helpful hints about coaching at the minor hockey level.
Mar 17, 2016
EPISODE 30 | Living the Dream Through Your Children
A second round pick in 2003, by Minnesota Patrcik O’Sullivan would play 334 NHL games with five teams over the course of his nine-year professional career. Now at the age of 30, the former NHLer is sharing his story to help others caught in similar circumstances of physical abuse.
Mar 10, 2016
EPISODE 29 | Measuring Skill in Hockey
During the 1999 Open Ice Summit on Player Development in Canada, delegates close to the game at the grassroots level recommended that Hockey Canada investigate ways to celebrate skill development in hockey.
What Hockey Canada created was the National Skills Standards and Testing Program. The program is based on the fundamental philosophy that skill development
should be fun and challenging and at the same time accessible to all players. Ryan Hurley is the Manager of the Hockey Canada Regional Centre in Ontario talks about the best way to measure skill in the game.
Mar 3, 2016
EPISODE 28 | How Sport Psychology Can Help You Succeed
Expectations are everywhere, in life and in sport. Our ability to manage them is a key factor in controlling stress levels, frustration levels and overall success. Paul Dennis is a long time sport psychologist consultant with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Hockey Canada and the Canadian Hockey League and joins us to talk about how we can better manage our expectations when it comes to sports.
Feb 25, 2016
EPISODE 27 | Is Canada Still the World’s Goalie Super Power?
When it comes to hockey, one could safely argue Canada remains the world’s No. 1 super power. Canada has won back-to-back (three of four, in fact) Olympic gold medals in men’s hockey and four consecutive Olympic gold medals in women’s hockey. However, when it comes to developing top-notch goaltenders, Canada lags behind many other hockey-playing nations. Not in the sense that Canada does not have some great goalies, it’s just there is not strength in numbers. Vetran hockey journalist, Mike Brophy discusses what is happeneing between the pipes in Canada.
To read Brophy's article, visit OMHA.net/Breakaway
Feb 18, 2016
EPISODE 26 | Does Sport Specialization Hurt Our Young Athletes?
The greatest difference between our children’s sporting experience and our own is the rise of year-round, sport-specific organizations that ask – even require – season after season of participation in order to stay in the player development pipeline. The pressure to have your child specialize in a single sport at a young age has never been stronger. David Kittner, the Youth Fitness Guy joins us to talk sport specialization in minor sports.
Feb 11, 2016
EPISODE 25 | The Most Important Line of the Ice You've Never Heard of
Chris Boyle & Steve Valliquette have identified what they believe is the most important line on the ice, the line he believes supports the existence of shot quality.
Feb 4, 2016
EPISODE 24 | Coach Selections
Each year minor hockey associations undertake the task of selecting coaching staff to oversee programming for the coming season. The ultimate goal of this process is to provide players with the best possible experience in an environment where they can grow as hockey players and young people. Dan Pollard is joined by Stephen Gaunce of the Markham Waxers and father of two professional hockey players, Cameron and Brendan Gaunce.
Jan 28, 2016
EPISODE 23 | All About Goalies
Playing goalie doesn't just happen when you make a save. There is incredible preparation that occurs before a shot even leaves the stick that can determine whether the puck ends up in the back of the net.
Jan 21, 2016
EPISODE 22 | Tech Savy Hockey
The world of sport is continually changing, and the use of technology is just one of those areas that have made an impact on hockey in the modern day. From training techniques to new equipment and even to the way we analyze the game, technology has evolved the sport and changed the way it is played.
Jan 14, 2016
EPISODE 21 | Teaching Systems vs Teaching Skills
There is no exact science to create the perfect hockey player. Everyone knows it’s not that easy. Developing intelligent, well-rounded players can be done at an early age, but it is important to remember that kids need to learn fundamentals before they can be taught anything else.
Brendan Taylor is a former OHL and OUA player and the current assistant coach of the Oakville Blades in the OJHL. He weighed in on the Breakaway Podcast on the debate of when systems should be taught to players.
Jan 7, 2016
EPISODE 20 | The Art of Stick Handling
There are few things in hockey that make jaws drop more than a finessed deke around a defender, but the art of stick handling is so much more than that. Jeremy Rupke is the creator of HowToHockey.com, a website aimed at improving players through tips and drills. He appeared on the Breakaway podcast to share his knowledge on becoming a better stick handler.
Dec 31, 2015
EPISODE 19 | Innovative Ways to Change the Game
Former guests of the show including Darren Dreger, Tom Renney, Catherine Ward, and Craig Button share their most innovative ways they would change the game for the better.
Dec 24, 2015
EPISODE 18 | Will Canada Repeat at the 2016 World Junior Championships
The World Juniors Championship tournament has always been a welcomed addition into living rooms over the holidays. Families gather around the television to cheer on Canada as the team begins its quest for another gold medal. TSN Director of Scouting, Craig Button chats about the history of the tournament and what to look for from this edition of Team Canada.
Dec 17, 2015
EPISODE 17 | Earning Your Stripes
Officials perform a vital role in the game. At all levels are the third team on the ice, without whom the game would not happen. Dave Wedlake, Chair of the OMHA Referee program joined us to discuss the role of the official.
Dec 10, 2015
EPISODE 16 | Top Holiday Draft Picks
With the holidays just around the corner, our team has your official holiday cheat sheet when it comes to shopping for the hockey fanatic on your list.
Dec 3, 2015
EPISODE 15 - Not Real Hockey? What are age appropriate sizes for minor hockey nets, ice, and pucks?
Imagine playing hockey on a seemingly endless sheet of ice. You can see the puck but no matter how hard you try or how fast you skate you are never able to catch up to it. Suddenly, you find yourself trapped at one end of the rink, helplessly watching as the play moves toward the other end. Ken Martell, Technical Director of USA Hockey explains the benefits of age appropriate sizes for pucks, ice and nets.
Nov 26, 2015
EPISODE 14 | Building An Outdoor Rink
Anyone who follows him on twitter or pays attention to a featured segment on TSN.ca, knows Darren Dreger's passion for backyard rinks. We chat how to make the perfect backyard rink with the Hockey Insider himself
Nov 19, 2015
EPISODE 13 | How do you build skilled hockey players?
Hockey Canada President, Tom Renney discusses how to build skilled hockey players in part two of our conversation.
Nov 12, 2015
EPISODE 12 | The right way to prepare your body for a game.
Warming up before a practice, game or training session is vital in ensuring the body is ready to compete at its highest level. Warm ups should start with basic movements - and they don’t necessarily need a lot of space or equipment. Mark Fitzgerald, owner of Elite Training Systems, Strength and Conditioning Coach Anaheim Ducks/ Lead Training Adviser Under Armour Canada talks about the proper way to warm up and train your body.
Nov 5, 2015
EPISODE 11 | Is dump and chase hockey undermining skill in our players?
The strategy: Give up the puck as quickly as you can, and see if the opponent has the skill to break out of their end against the forecheck.
Former professional player and current write for The Score, Justin Bourne explains why the dump and chase is killing skill in minor hockey.
Oct 29, 2015
EPISODE 10 | Being A Responsible Sport Parent
Former NHLer and Co-Founder of Respect Group, Sheldon Kennedy, has been a champion for respectful behaviour for sport stakeholders since 2004. We sat down with Sheldon to discuss the Respect in Sport Parent program, the evolving role of parents in sport and how we can all become agents for positive change.
Oct 22, 2015
EPISODE 9 | How to Get More Kids Playing Hockey
Given Canada is the birth place of hockey, and Canadians are so passionate about the sport, it was surprising to learn that 90% of the kids do NOT play hockey today. Today we focus on the 90% that currently do not play and find ways to get them involved in our favourite sport to make a meaningful impact on the lives of kids, their families, and our communities. We chat with Lodovic Lord, Manager of Recruitment Initiatives with Hockey Canada to discuss how to get more kids playing the game.
Oct 15, 2015
EPISODE 8 | The Russian Way
Hockey is indeed an international game. Welland Ontario native, Mike Pelino, Assistant Coach with Metallurg Magnitogorsk of the KHL discusses the differences in the game from an international view and what we can apply to the Canadian model.
Oct 8, 2015
EPISODE 7 | Planning A Better Practice
Keep them moving, emphasize the fundamentals, and incorporate a progression of skill development for every participant. Wayne Parro, Executive Director of the Professional Coaching Department with Coaching Association of Canada discusses these four principals that will allow you to develop an effective plan for the upcoming season in under an hour.
Oct 1, 2015
EPISODE 6 | The Changing Role of Defensemen
The name ‘Defenseman’ or ‘Defender ’used to be an accurate title but no longer properly captures the role of the modern Hockey ‘Defenseman’. Now we ask our players to “Attack as five and defend as five” and our Defensemen to be our ‘Quarterbacks’ – playing with poise, vision, and awareness. NCCP Certified Coach Facilitator with the Ontario Minor Hockey Association, Peter McBride chats about the changing role of Defensemen.
Sep 24, 2015
Episode 5 | Hockey Stick Technology
In the past decade, hockey sticks made from high-tech materials found in aircraft and Formula One race cars have replaced wood models as the tool of choice for players from the NHL all the way down to tyke. Catherine Ward of the Montreal Stars of the CWHL and Product Manager for CCM talks about the technology behind sticks, how it has changed the game and what to look for when choosing the right stick for you.
Sep 17, 2015
Episode 4 | Leading the Game: The State of Minor Hockey With Tom Renney
One-on-One with Hockey Canada President, Tom Renney about the state of hockey, what direction Hockey Canada is taking and his passion for the sport.
Sep 17, 2015
Episode 3 | The Role of Parents In Player Development
Kids who have fun playing a sport are more likely to stay active and healthy for their entire lifetime. They also have a better chance of becoming a top athlete. So make it fun, and make it quality! Richard Monette from Active for Life sits down to talk about the role parents play in their child's athletic development.
Sep 17, 2015
Episode 2 | Fueling Your Body For Gameday
Hockey is a fast and demanding sport requiring proper fueling to reach peak performance. Repeated bouts of high intensity, anaerobic shifts result in rapid decline of energy stores. A recovery eating plan is essential to speed up recovery before playing again the next day.Heidi Smith, Sport Dietitian and Head of Nutrition at the Health and Performance Centre at the University of Guelph chats about the foods to eat before your next game.
Sep 9, 2015
Episode 1 | The Benefit of Building An Association Curriculum
The saying “It takes a village to raise a child” is very appropriate when it comes to providing a positive experience for our players. Hockey Canada’s Long Term Player Development model (LTPD) is a framework to maximize a player’s potential and long term involvement in sport over the course of their life.
Ian Taylor, Director of Development for the Ontario Minor Hockey Association is here with us to discuss the important role Minor Hockey Associations provide in leading the education of parents and volunteers about the benefits of Long Term Player Development and identify the need for programs to incorporate LTPD philosophies.