The Hockey Think Tank Podcast
The Hockey Think Tank Podcast features interviews and stories from top hockey minds, hosted by Topher Scott and Jeff LoVecchio. It aims to educate and inspire players, coaches, and parents with insights from the game. The show is designed to be a go-to resource for hockey enthusiasts on their way to the rink.
Episodes
FRIDAY FACEOFF - TRANSITIONING FROM PLAYING HIGH LEVEL TO COACHING YOUTH HOCKEY
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about former higher level players that want to make the transition to coaching youth hockey. We talk about all of the obstacles and things you might not realize when making the switch.
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SHORT SHIFTS - TOPH’S BIGGEST PET PEEVE
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about one of his biggest pet peeves in hockey; when the puck carrier turns an odd man rush into a 1-on-1 situation. Let’s talk about what you should do instead.
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Live With No Quit & Chip Away Every Day, with Guest Jake Thibeault, Babson College Student Who Suffered Paralyzing Hockey Accident - EP 426
This week Topher and Jeff talk with Jake Thibeault, an incredible young hockey player that was paralyzed by an injury on the ice. At the time of his injury, Thibeault was in the recruiting process with Jamie Rice, head coach of Babson College. Even though Thibeault’s hockey career ended, Rice still brought on Thibeault to join the team. Thibeault just graduated from Babson and joins us to talk abo
FRIDAY FACEOFF - INCONSISTENT EXPERIENCES WITHIN A CLUB
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph brings on HTT teammates Matt and Steph to talk about how so many youth hockey organizations are only tied by wearing the same jersey. With that, families can have wildly different experiences within the same club. We discuss why this can happen, and what orgs can do to create a consistent experience for everyone.
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SHORT SHIFTS - PRE / POST PRACTICE ICE
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about our advice for the players that are first on the ice and last off the ice.
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Elite Edge Hockey Camp Interview with Guests Filip Forsberg & Chris Mason, Professional Hockey Players - EP 425
This week Topher talks with Filip Forsberg and Chris Mason at the Elite Edge Hockey Camp in Nashville. Forsberg currently plays for the Nashville Predators of the NHL and Mason is a 300+ game NHL veteran goaltender.
In this episode we talk about:
— Forsberg’s and Mason’s journeys to the NHL
— Going from being the worst player to the best player
— The importance of using the gym to support your on-
FRIDAY FACEOFF - LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about his biggest takeaways from the recent Minnesota Wild’s Leadership Development Conference. Every year, the Wild invites captains from each high school in Minnesota to teach them about leadership. This year, Topher was asked to be one of their guest speakers and, in this episode, shares what he learned from the conference.
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SHORT SHIFTS - NEW WAYS TO DEVELOP SPEED & POWER
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about the new things Vechs is doing with his dryland athletes to develop their speed and power over the summer.
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Summer Hockey & a Deep Dive into Skills, with Guest Justin Selman, Topline Hockey - EP 424
This week Topher and Jeff talk with Justin Selman, one of the owners of Topline Hockey. Selman played junior hockey in the USHL, college hockey at the University of Michigan, and finally a couple of years professionally. Now, he is a youth coach and joins us to absolutely nerd out on some hockey.
In this episode we talk about:
— Putting your money into what is actually going to make your kid bette
FRIDAY FACEOFF - ADHD IN HOCKEY PLAYERS
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about a listener’s question regarding their son’s ADHD and the struggles he faces in hockey because of it. Most coaches are not trained in properly supporting ADHD players, yet ADHD diagnoses are rapidly rising. Listen as we discuss how to better help our players that have, or may have, ADHD.
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SHORT SHIFTS - HOW TO DEFEND 2-ON-1s
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk all about defending 2-on-1s. Last week, we discussed 2-on-1s from an offensive standpoint, so this week we’re talking how to defend a dangerous 2-on-1. Let’s go!
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Major Juniors & the Goals You Need to Set to Play at the Higher Levels of Hockey, with Guest Tony DeHart, Former Pro Hockey Player - EP 423
This week Topher and Jeff talk with Tony DeHart, former OHL player, NHL New York Islanders’ draft pick, and professional hockey player. DeHart now works with youth hockey players in the St. Louis area on their hockey development at Stride and Celly Training Facility.
In this episode we talk about:
— The Ontario Hockey League and the experience of playing in major juniors
— Breaking down the differ
FRIDAY FACEOFF - VOLUNTEER BURNOUT?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about volunteer burnout. Our sport wouldn’t be anything without every single person who gives their time in some capacity. With that said, volunteering can often be a thankless job and burnout is common. The problem is not that people don’t care enough, it’s that we keep asking caring people to carry too much.
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SHORT SHIFTS - 2-ON-1S
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk all about 2-on-1s. If you get a 2-on-1 opportunity, you have to bury the puck. Let’s talk about how to increase your chances of scoring.
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Everyone Has a Different Path: The Youth Hockey Journey That Got Me to the NHL, with Guest Dave Moss, Former NHL Player - EP 422
This week Topher and Jeff talk with Dave Moss, former 500+ game NHL player and University of Michigan alum. Moss was drafted to the NHL as a 7th rounder, but didn’t play Tier 1 hockey growing up - he only played AA and high school. Now as a youth hockey coach himself, he joins us to talk about his path to the NHL.
In this episode we talk about:
— Being careful to not strip confidence from young pl
FRIDAY FACEOFF - NEW SCHOOL VS OLD SCHOOL COACHING
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about new school vs old school styles of coaching. The best coaches incorporate a mix of both, so that they can lead their teams with high standards while creating great relationships with their players.
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SHORT SHIFTS - THE POLITICS PROBLEM IN YOUTH HOCKEY
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about something that most people don’t like to talk about: politics in youth hockey. Sometimes politics are real, but often the perception of politics is the bigger issue. Join us to discuss the things you can do as a parent, coach, or organization to make the experience better for everyone involved.
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Be a Thermostat, Not a Thermometer: How to Be a Great Leader, with Guest John O’Sullivan, Changing the Game Project Founder - EP 421
This week Topher and Jeff talk with John O’Sullivan, founder of Changing the Game Project. O’Sullivan’s new book, “Captain: The Athlete’s Guide to Being an Exceptional Team Leader,” is designed to help athletes learn how to lead. He joins the podcast to explain that leadership is a skill that can be obtained through hard work.
In this episode we talk about:
— How coaches can develop their leaders
FRIDAY FACEOFF - COACHING WITH LIMITED PLAYING EXPERIENCE?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about our advice and perspective for coaches that don’t have higher-level playing experience. We use Jon Cooper, head coach of the Tampa Bay Lightning and recent winner of the Jack Adams Award, as an example of the success you can have, even if you feel like your playing experience is an obstacle.
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SHORT SHIFTS - KEEP AWAY
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about incorporating keep away into your practices and how valuable it is as a development tool.
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Ways to Improve Your Game & Lengthen Your Hockey Career, with Guest Sam Gagner, Former NHL Player - EP 420
This week Topher and Jeff talk with Sam Gagner, current Ottawa Senators’ Director of Player Development and former National Hockey League player with over 1000 games in the league. Gagner is what we call a “hockey lifer;” he consistently found new ways throughout his career to improve his game and remain valuable in the NHL for 17 seasons.
In this episode we talk about:
— Making every aspect of th
FRIDAY FACEOFF - YOUTH HOCKEY HAS A RETENTION PROBLEM?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph brings on HTT team members Matt & Steph to talk about how youth hockey doesn’t have a recruitment problem, it has a retention problem. Organizations spend a lot of energy recruiting new players, but then face challenges with loyalty from their families. We find that families more often leave because of the experience, rather than hockey reasons. The good new
SHORT SHIFTS - MOMENTUM
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about momentum and its role in winning games. Listen for our best advice, whether you’re a player or a coach, on how to bring energy to your team and make sure the momentum swings in your favor.
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Dialed & Driven Mentality, with Guest Jeff Lerg, Former Professional Goalie - EP 419
This week Topher and Jeff talk with one of our favorite guests of all time, Jeff Lerg. Lerg is the epitome of what this podcast is all about: he battled through adversity as a 5’6” goalie and came out the other side, not only as a National Champion with Michigan State University, but more importantly as an incredible human. After 10+ years of playing professionally, he now runs his own goalie scho
FRIDAY FACEOFF - TO THE PARENTS OF PLAYERS THAT GOT CUT THIS SEASON
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk directly to the parents of players that got cut from a team this season, in any capacity. We understand that tryouts can be extremely emotional, so let us help you navigate this stressful time.
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SHORT SHIFTS - JAKUB DOBEŠ
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about Jakub Dobeš, who trained with Vechs, and has an incredible story on how he got to where he is now. We talk all about what makes Dobeš special to highlight that everyone has a different path.
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The Value & Power of Relationships in Coaching, with Guest Nate DiCasmirro, ICEHL Champion Coach - EP 418
This week Topher and Jeff talk with Nate DiCasmirro, assistant coach of the recent Austrian ICEHL champion team EC Graz99ers. DiCasmirro played 17 years professionally, with 7 years in the AHL and 10 years in multiple European hockey leagues. He joins the pod to discuss the value in prioritizing relationships in coaching.
In this episode we talk about:
— Finding your niche at every level
— The tig
FRIDAY FACEOFF - HOW YOUTH ORGS CAN BETTER SUPPORT COACHES
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph brings on HTT teammate Matt Thomas to talk about how youth hockey organizations can better support their coaching staff. We discuss everything from communication and setting boundaries, to implementing standards and protection. Coaches are the backbone of youth hockey, and supporting them properly will help orgs be more successful.
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SHORT SHIFTS - DELAY GAME
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about how important delays can be in creating offense on the rush. All elite players have an elite delay game, so let’s talk about this incredibly valuable skill.
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Team Defense: Be Hard to Play Against & Keep Pucks Out of Your Net - EP 417
This week Topher and Jeff fly solo to talk about how to play defense. A couple of weeks ago, we did an episode on how to score more goals, so now it’s time to talk about keeping pucks out of the net.
In this episode we talk about:
— Getting players to buy in to playing defensively
— The importance of communication & effort
— How defense is not just in the defensive zone
— How to take time and spac
FRIDAY FACEOFF - MENTAL HEALTH IN HOCKEY
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about Tampa Bay Lightning captain Victor Hedman’s recent statement on his leave of absence from the team due to mental health. Listen for our reactions to his statement and our thoughts on the importance of discussing mental health in hockey.
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SHORT SHIFTS - QUICKSAND
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about what we call quicksand, which is when things don’t seem to be going well as a player and you start to lose confidence in yourself and your abilities. Listen as we give our best advice and tools to navigate through it.
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College Hockey Recruiting & New NCAA Rules with Guest Mike McMahon, College Hockey Insider - EP 416
This week Topher brings on Mike McMahon, college hockey news reporter, to discuss the numerous changes hitting the college hockey landscape, particularly with recruiting. If you or your player are considering playing college hockey, this episode is a must-listen.
In this episode we talk about:
— The transfer portal
— NIL money and being able to pay players
— Major junior rule
— 5 years of eligibil
FRIDAY FACEOFF - WHAT IT TAKES TO WIN A CHAMPIONSHIP?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about what it takes to win a championship and what we can do at the younger levels to develop those intangible skills.
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SHORT SHIFTS - HOW DO YOU MAKE OFF-ICE FUN FOR PLAYERS?
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about off-ice and how to make it fun for youth hockey players so that they want to keep coming back.
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Learning Life Lessons from Hockey & Playing to Your Identity with Guest Evan Ritt, Tolos Barefootwear Founder - EP 415
This week Topher and Jeff talk with Evan Ritt, former college hockey player and founder of Tolos Barefootwear. Ritt won a national championship while playing for the University of Denver Men’s Ice Hockey team and later created his successful company by using the life lessons he learned throughout his hockey career.
In this episode we talk about:
— The importance of playing with your kids
— Differe
FRIDAY FACEOFF - WE NEED TO TALK MORE ABOUT REC HOCKEY
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph and Vechs bring on their teammates, Steph and Matt, from the HTT to talk about rec hockey. We work with youth hockey organizations all over North America and the number one thing we need to talk about more is house hockey. Rec hockey is dying and we need to do more to protect the foundation of our sport.
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SHORT SHIFTS - HOW DO YOU COACH A HIGH-EMOTIONS PLAYER?
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about a listener’s question: how do you coach and support a player that brings a lot of emotion to the game, such as cellying toward the other team’s bench, arguing with refs over calls, and smashing their stick on the ice.
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Light the Lamp: How to Score More Goals - EP 414
This week Topher and Jeff fly solo to talk about absolutely everything when it comes to scoring goals. We believe burying pucks is all about having the right mentality, so let’s dive into how you can improve your offensive game.
In this episode we talk about:
— The most important thing to know when it comes to scoring more
— Toph & Vechs' most memorable goals they’ve scored
— How intentionality in
FRIDAY FACEOFF - OUR THOUGHTS ON BOWNESS’ INTERVIEW?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about Rick Bowness’ interview after the NHL Columbus Blue Jackets’ last game of the season. In the emotional interview, Bowness strongly voices his concerns about the culture of the team and his disappointment with the team’s playoff elimination. Listen for our thoughts on if this was the right move or not.
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SHORT SHIFTS - HOW DO YOU BECOME A BETTER SKATER?
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph asks Vechs for his best advice on how to become a better and faster skater over the summer.
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Always Be Learning: Cultivating Curiosity with Guest Phil Osaer, Former Pro Goalie - EP 413
This week Topher and Jeff talk with Phil Osaer, who played college hockey at Ferris State University, played over 12 years professionally, and then went on to have a great career in coaching and scouting for multiple NHL teams. He is currently the Director of Athlete Development at Suburban Sports Group.
In this episode we talk about:
— Reduced accountability because kids can easily hop teams
— H
FRIDAY FACEOFF - MERCYHURST FOLDING?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about the Mercyhurst University men’s ice hockey program folding. They have not disclosed why the program folded, but the way it happened really disappointed us. Listen for the inside scoop on how poorly the situation was handled.
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SHORT SHIFTS - THE STANDARD
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about “The Standard,” which is an excerpt from Matt Ford’s website that outlines what he learned from Shattuck-St. Mary’s, one of the top hockey prep schools in the country. True to its title, this is what we believe should be the standard for all coaches.
THE STANDARD
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5 Tips for Parents to Help Navigate the Youth Hockey Journey - EP 412
This week Topher and Jeff fly solo to give our best advice to all of the hockey parents out there. The hockey world can be tough to figure out, whether you’re new to the sport, experiencing a different level, or if you are just feeling like you still haven’t found your way. We’re here to help you navigate that journey.
In this episode we talk about:
— Putting yourself around the best people
— Runn
FRIDAY FACEOFF - SIDNEY CROSBY PUTTING CHAIRS AWAY?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about Sidney Crosby and his most recent show of character. After the NHL Pittsburgh Penguins took their team picture, captain Crosby stayed to help staff clean up the chairs. We are strong believers in the phrase, “how you do anything is how you’ll do everything.” It’s no coincidence that Crosby is an elite hockey player and a class act.
TEN MI
SHORT SHIFTS - T.J. HUGHES FOR HOBEY BAKER
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about T.J. Hughes being named one of the finalists for the Hobey Baker Award, which is given to the top NCAA men's ice hockey player in the country. Listen for our thoughts on why we believe he deserves this award and what message it would send to the future hockey generations if he wins.
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You Might Win a Lot, but Are You Learning How to Win? With Guest Chris Pronger, NHL Hall of Famer - EP 411
This week Topher and Jeff bring back the one and only Chris Pronger - NHL Hall of Famer, Stanley Cup Champion, and 2-time Olympic Champion with over 18 years in the NHL - to talk about learning how to win.
In this episode we talk about:
— How newer hockey generations have taken a step back with hockey IQ
— Kids needing to learn how to be sandpaper
— Why learning to win matters more than just winni
FRIDAY FACEOFF - HOW TO DEVELOP MORE RINK RATS?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about how we can develop more rink rats, because those are the players that are more likely to make it far in their hockey journey.
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SHORT SHIFTS - HOW DO YOU GENERATE OFFENSE WHEN THE OPPOSING DEFENSE IS LOCKDOWN
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about how when you get to the playoffs, it can seem that it is a lot harder to score. So, how do you create offense when the other team’s defense is lockdown?
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Everything That Hockey Should Be, with Guest Jay Hardwick, Warroad Head Coach - EP 410
This week Topher talks with Jay Hardwick, head coach of the Warroad Minnesota boys high school ice hockey team. Hardwick’s team just won the Minnesota State High School Championship, so we brought him on to talk about the Minnesota model and what it takes to win it all.
In this episode we talk about:
— The right attitude to best support your team
— Setting the example for future hockey generations
FRIDAY FACEOFF - PARENTS AREN’T THE PROBLEM?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Vechs wants to talk about one of our recent viral clips that said, “parents aren’t the problem, confusion is.” The way a club communicates affects how parents talk about that organization. We received a wide range of comments, so let’s talk about why the claim was so controversial.
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SHORT SHIFTS - SEASON JUST ENDED… NOW WHAT?
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Vechs wants to talk about the number one question he gets this time of the year; “my season just ended, what should I do now and what should my summer look like?” Listen for our best advice on what to do during your off-season.
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The 5 Biggest Things We Have Learned About Youth Hockey This Season, with Guests Matt Thomas & Steph Dukesherer, HTT Team Members - EP 409
This week Topher talks with Matt Thomas and Steph Dukesherer, two members of the HTT squad that work directly with our youth hockey organization partners. The Hockey Think Tank’s Organizational Blueprint is designed to give clubs clear direction, purpose, and organization. If you think we could help your organization with any of the topics we talked about today, click the link below!
Refer Your Or
FRIDAY FACEOFF - BUILDING RESILIENCY?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about the importance of building resiliency. If you have high hopes and big dreams, chances are you will face adversity along the way. How far you make it depends on your resiliency.
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SHORT SHIFTS - FUN WAYS TO START & END PRACTICE
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about some fun ways to start and end practice, so that your players are excited to hit the ice every time.
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The Power of Playing for Something Bigger Than Yourself - EP 408
This week Topher and Jeff fly solo to talk about the power of playing for something bigger than yourself. We discuss the huge impact it can have not only on yourself as a player, but also on your entire team. It's not just talent that gets you to the next level; it’s life skills.
In this episode we talk about:
— Playing for the people that got you here
— Playing for the people that came before you
FRIDAY FACEOFF - FINDING YOUR NEXT PASSION AFTER PLAYING?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to answer a listener’s question about finding the next thing you can be passionate about after you finish playing, whether it’s at the youth, college, or pro level.
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SHORT SHIFTS - ADJUSTING TO A NEW TEAM & SYSTEM
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, coming off the recent NHL trade deadline, Toph wants to talk about how to best navigate and adjust to a new team and their systems.
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Defining What it Means to Be 100% All In, with Guest Jacob Newton, Performance Coach - EP 407
This week Topher and Jeff talk with Jacob Newton, former professional hockey player and current performance coach. Newton played in the USHL, at Northeastern University, and played professionally in the AHL and Europe.
In this episode we talk about:
— Newton’s recent book release: The tears of Happy Jake
— That no athlete is 24/7, 365 and the importance of an off switch
— How to be present with yo
FRIDAY FACEOFF - OUR THOUGHTS ON THE OLYMPIC AFTERMATH?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about the aftermath of the US Women’s and Men’s Olympic teams winning gold and the phone call with US President Donald Trump.
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SHORT SHIFTS - CHANGING LANES ON THE RUSH
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to answer a listener's question: what are our thoughts on changing lanes on the rush, and how can it create better timing and space for players without the puck?
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There Is No Set Path to Playing at the Junior Level & Above, with Guest Glenn Hefferan, USHL Commissioner - EP 406
This week Topher and Jeff talk with Glenn Hefferan, the commissioner of the United States Hockey League, which is the top junior ice hockey league sanctioned by USA Hockey. If you or your player has dreams of playing at this level, this episode is for you.
In this episode we talk about:
— How development is more important than wins & losses
— The need to be more positive about our sport
— Fami
FRIDAY FACEOFF - WHEN DO YOU KNOW IF IT'S TIME TO MOVE ON?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about knowing when it is time to move on from a coach, team, or organization. We are strong proponents of battling through adversity, but also acknowledge that in some situations it is best to walk away. Let’s talk about it.
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SHORT SHIFTS - BEING HARD TO PLAY AGAINST
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about what it means as a player to be hard to play against.
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How to Get the Best Out of Your Hockey Players with Guest Ryan Carter, Former NHL Player - EP 405
This week Topher and Jeff talk with Ryan Carter, former NHL player and current member of the Minnesota Wild broadcast team. Carter grew up playing youth hockey & college hockey in Minnesota, played over 470 games in the NHL, and eventually won a Stanley Cup with the Anaheim Ducks.
In this episode we talk about:
— The importance of practicing playing physically
— Asking yourself if you are coac
FRIDAY FACEOFF - EVERYONE HAS A DIFFERENT PATH?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to talk about how everyone has a different path in their hockey journey. You should only compare yourself to the version of yourself you were yesterday.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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SHORT SHIFTS - HOW DO I KNOW I DID A GOOD JOB THIS YEAR AS A COACH?
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about how to know whether or not you did a good job as a coach this year. It can be difficult to evaluate your performance, so we give some tips to help you reflect.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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Shout out to this Short Shifts supporter: SkateTech Skat
Increasing Accessibility & Affordability in Hockey with Guest Zechariah Thomas, Swift Hockey Founder - EP 404
This week Topher and Jeff talk with Zechariah Thomas, CEO and founder of Swift Hockey. Swift Hockey is the fastest growing stick brand in the ice hockey world and their mission is to increase affordability and accessibility in our sport.
In this episode we talk about:
— How Swift Hockey started and their mission in making hockey more affordable
— Being a first generation hockey player and navigati
FRIDAY FACEOFF - HATE TO LOSE OR LOVE TO WIN?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to discuss the phrases “hate to lose” vs “love to win.” Which one suits you best and what does it say about you as a player or coach?
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social sites!
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SHORT SHIFTS - ONE-TIMERS
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about one-timers. What are some of the most important things you should know about this type of shot?
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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Growth Isn’t Always Linear: It's About Getting Back on the Path with Guest Matt Fornataro, Performance Coach - EP 403
This week Topher and Jeff talk with Matt Fornataro, former professional hockey player and now performance coach. Fornataro played in the United States Hockey League, then played for University of New Hampshire, and later went pro for a couple of years.
In this episode we talk about:
— How one bad game doesn’t make you a bad player
— The difference between goals and standards
— How kids don’t have
FRIDAY FACEOFF - FINISHING THE SEASON STRONG?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Vechs is flying solo for the first time ever and he wants to discuss how to finish the season strong. While everyone is stressing about playoffs or next season, Vechs encourages players, coaches, and parents to stay present and be in the moment.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
We appreciate every listen, download, comment, rating, and share on your social
SHORT SHIFTS - BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS WITH YOUR PLAYERS
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about the importance of building relationships with your players. How much time are you investing into getting to know your players as individuals away from the rink?
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 Ska
Letting Kids Be Kids with Guests Luciano Aquino and Carlo Colaiacovo, Former Professional Hockey Players - EP 402
This week Topher and Jeff talk with Luciano Aquino and Carlo Colaiacovo, former professional hockey players. Aquino played at the collegiate level and OHL level and Colaiacovo was a first round pick for the Toronto Maple Leafs. With their own professional careers, and now personal experiences as hockey dads, they join us on the podcast to talk all about prioritizing letting kids just be kids first
FRIDAY FACEOFF - RADICAL TRANSPARENCY?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to discuss the need for youth hockey organizations to be radically transparent in everything they do. The more you effectively communicate at the beginning, the fewer fires you will have to put out during your season.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
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SHORT SHIFTS - PLAYING OFFENSIVELY BEHIND THE NET
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about using the back of the net in the offensive zone. The game is constantly changing, so let’s discuss the modern ways of playing behind the net.
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 &
What Good Defensive Hockey Looks Like - EP 401
This week Topher and Jeff fly solo to talk all about keeping the puck out of your net. What does good defensive hockey look like? Listen as we nerd out and talk about the best defensive habits, concepts, and team strategies.
In this episode we talk about:
— How little things become the big things
— To play high level hockey you have to be good at tracking
— The whole point of playing good defense
FRIDAY FACEOFF - WAYS TO BRING POSITIVITY TO THE GAME?!
On today’s FRIDAY FACEOFF episode, Toph wants to discuss different ways we can bring positivity to the game. We’ve talked at great lengths about how hockey is heading for the worst and that it's up to all of us to give back to the game that gave us so much. Listen as we suggest a few small acts that can have a huge impact on others.
TEN MINUTES ON THE CLOCK STARTING NOW!
We appreciate every listen
SHORT SHIFTS - FAVORITE ANGLING DRILLS
On today’s SHORT SHIFTS episode, Toph wants to talk about angling drills. We discuss our favorites that help develop this essential skill.
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
Follow us:
IG: @HockeyThinkTank
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