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Duncan Keith reflects on his unique journey from being an undersized, undrafted player to becoming a three-time Stanley Cup champion, Conn Smythe winner, and two-time Norris Trophy winner. He emphasizes the importance of belief, adaptability, coaching, and teamwork in shaping one's career and legacy.

• The power of belief in oneself
• Overcoming the odds as an undersized player
• The pivotal role of coaching in player development
• Transitioning from junior hockey to professional levels
• The significance of teamwork and friendships in hockey
• The evolution of playstyle and adaptability throughout a career
• Celebrating collective success over individual accolades

These show notes provide insight into Duncan's impressive story while also delivering impactful lessons for aspiring athletes.

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In this episode, Scott Niedermeyer shares his transformative journey from junior hockey to becoming a Hall of Fame defenseman. He reflects on the crucial lessons learned through adversity, the importance of teamwork, and the development of confidence in navigating the challenges of competitive hockey.

• Insights on the transition to junior hockey at a young age
• Overcoming adversity and finding success in team dynamics
• Learning from the demanding coaching style of Jacques Lemaire
• Embracing mistakes as growth opportunities
• The significance of enjoying the game and fostering passion
• Confidence fluctuates and is cultivated through experience

Join us to learn about the essence of being a valuable teammate and the lifelong lessons embedded in the sport of hockey.

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This episode with Katrina German emphasizes the importance of managing one's online identity as a young athlete in today's digital landscape. We discuss strategies to combat online bullying, the mental health implications of social media, and the responsibility athletes have to maintain a positive digital presence.

• Importance of digital identity for athletes
• Risks associated with social media and online presence
• Mental health challenges linked to social media use
• Strategies for dealing with online bullying
• Awareness of the long-term consequences of digital footprints
• Building resilience and confidence in digital interactions
• Encouraging responsible online behavior among athletes
• Tools and techniques for managing online content
• Promoting positive digital citizenship in sports
• Call to action: Reflect on your online presence and make conscious decisions regarding digital interactions.

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Join us for a captivating conversation with Topher Scott, co-host of the Hockey Think Tank podcast, as we delve into the essence of leadership in youth hockey. Discover how actions speak louder than words and why authenticity and self-awareness are game-changers for young athletes. Topher shares his personal journey as an undersized player who defied the odds to lead at the USHL and NCAA levels, providing invaluable insights for players and parents facing similar challenges. His story is a testament to the power of resilience and embracing one's true self, both on and off the ice.

Through engaging anecdotes and thoughtful discussions, we tackle the nuances of physical development in hockey and the unique advantages late maturers can bring to the game. Learn why scouts and coaches should look beyond physical attributes to appreciate a player's understanding of the game and competitive spirit. Embrace the underdog mentality as a catalyst for personal growth, nurturing resilience and mental toughness in young athletes. Our conversation highlights the importance of fostering a supportive environment in youth sports to inspire a growth mindset and long-term success.

Explore the transformative impact of authenticity in leadership roles, as Topher reflects on his own experiences at Cornell. We discuss how embracing one's true nature can lead to a more cohesive and motivated team environment, emphasizing the value of self-reflection and understanding one's identity. With stories of perseverance and the celebration of team success, this episode offers a comprehensive look at how personal growth and authenticity drive excellence in hockey and beyond. Whether you're a player, parent, or coach, this episode is packed with insights to inspire the leaders of tomorrow.

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What if your late-birthday child is actually an NHL superstar in the making? Join us on Up My Hockey as Glen Murray, former NHL standout and current director of player development for the Los Angeles Kings, shares invaluable insights on nurturing young talent in a world where patience is key. From his journey as a first-round draft pick to his wisdom on developing today's players, Glen offers a unique perspective on what it takes to transform a promising prospect into a successful professional athlete.

Glen and I unpack the intricacies of guiding young players through the challenges of professional transitions, focusing on the importance of patience and adaptability. Discover the behind-the-scenes decisions that can make or break a player's career, and hear firsthand how strategic time in the minors has shaped players like Quinton Byfield. We discuss how the Los Angeles Kings' organizational philosophy supports players at every stage, setting them up for long-term success.

Throughout our conversation, we emphasize the significance of trust and mentorship in developing resilient team players. Glen shares stories of players like Patrice Bergeron, who have excelled by embracing team-oriented skills and leadership qualities. We celebrate the Los Angeles Kings' development strategies and highlight the roles of veteran players in fostering a nurturing culture. Join us as we explore the beautiful game of hockey through the lens of someone dedicated to shaping its future stars.

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Join us on a captivating journey into the world of hockey with NHL veteran and two-time Stanley Cup champion, Brad Lukowich. From his early days with the Kamloops Blazers to his transition into coaching youth hockey, Brad shares insights that paint a vivid picture of the sport's evolution. Listen as Brad recounts the unique camaraderie within the Blazers, the strategic maneuvers of NHL trades, and the challenges young players face in today's competitive landscape. His reflections on embracing various roles on a team provide valuable lessons for aspiring athletes and hockey enthusiasts alike.

Through engaging anecdotes, Brad's experiences highlight the importance of teamwork and the impact of strong mentorship in professional sports. Discover how a winning mindset and the relentless spirit of the Kamloops Blazers fostered lifelong friendships and shaped future NHL stars like Jerome McGinley. Brad also delves into his post-NHL life in Dallas, where he continues to contribute to the local hockey scene, sharing updates on new arrivals and his personal passions beyond the rink.

Whether you're interested in the strategic intricacies of hockey trades or the personal growth journey of a professional athlete, this episode offers a rich tapestry of stories and insights. From navigating the rollercoaster of NHL trades to balancing personal passions with a commitment to the sport, Brad's narrative is both inspiring and informative. Tune in to learn how resilience, teamwork, and a strong player identity continue to drive success in hockey and beyond.

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Former NHL player and Stanley Cup champion Jamal Mayers joins us for a fascinating journey through the ice, as we explore what it takes to reach your potential in hockey. We reminisce about our own encounters on the rink, including that unforgettable NHL game between Toronto and LA, and delve into Jamal’s current adventures coaching his son's impressively ranked youth team. With fellow ex-NHLers by his side as assistant coaches, Jamal offers a treasure trove of insights into the joys and challenges of mentoring young players, stressing the importance of consistency and foundational skills.

Our conversation shifts to the shifting landscape of junior and college hockey, where we dissect the recent NCAA policy change that allows Canadian Hockey League players to accept scholarships. This significant shift could rewrite the North American hockey playbook, with college teams now favoring older freshmen. We examine how these changes might influence leagues like the WHL and BCJ, and the newfound freedom players have in crafting their developmental paths, adding a new layer of complexity to the sport’s future.

Finally, we dive into the realm of youth hockey tournaments and coaching philosophies. The upcoming UMH 68 tournament promises an exciting platform for young players to shine, and we share personal coaching experiences that emphasize accountability, effort, and honest feedback. By weaving in anecdotes from my own journey coaching my son's team, we explore the delicate balance of being both a parent and a coach, and the importance of fostering a culture where young athletes can own their journey, ultimately crafting a holistic understanding of hockey development.

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Hockey enthusiasts and aspiring athletes, prepare to be inspired by the incredible journey of NHL veteran Mathieu Schneider. With two decades on the ice and a career spanning over 1,289 games, Schneider offers a wealth of insights into the world of professional hockey. From winning the Stanley Cup with the Montreal Canadiens to dealing with the highs and lows of a dynamic career, Schneider's stories provide a behind-the-scenes look at what it truly takes to excel at the highest level. Expect to learn about goal-scoring strategies, player-coach dynamics, and the importance of emotional regulation in navigating professional sports.

Join the conversation as we explore the impact of college hockey and developmental pathways for young players, featuring reflections from former players who question their own career decisions. Discover the pioneering efforts of Pat LaFontaine and the NHL in reshaping development routes, raising the draft age, and collaborating with key stakeholders. These insights shed light on the challenges and opportunities faced by young hockey players as they embark on their journey, revealing the importance of infrastructure, culture, and choice in shaping a successful career.

Explore the incredible team cultures and player dynamics that Schneider experienced throughout his career, from playing with legends like Nick Lidstrom to the transformative power of a growth mindset. Learn how Schneider transitioned from defensive to offensive play and the influential coaching styles that shaped his career. This episode underscores the significance of teamwork, resilience, and adaptability in achieving success, offering a comprehensive reflection on the triumphs and tribulations of a professional sports career.