Our Kids Play Hockey: Mailbag: Youth Hockey Stats, Goalie Blame, And Smarter Coaching Conversations
Episode Description
Its time to open the mailbag and these questions go way deeper than you might expect.In this episode of Our Kids Play Hockey, Lee, Mike, and Christie tackle two listener questions that hit at the heart of youth hockey development accountability, stats, and how parents can support learning without getting in the way.First up, a coach asks a question we hear all the time: Is there a stat that shows how many mistakes lead to goals and how do we help kids understand that goals arent just on the goalie?From blue line turnovers and unforced mistakes to age-appropriate stat tracking and accountability, this conversation goes far beyond analytics. Its about teaching the game, not blaming the game and knowing when to coach skills, when to coach decisions, and when to let players take ownership.Then, we shift gears to a brand-new hockey family with a 5-year-old whos obsessed with skating. When should kids stop using rental skates? Do sticks matter at this age? How much should parents really invest early on?This episode is packed with real-world advice, honest perspective, and reminders of what youth hockey is actually about development, patience, and love for the game. Episode Highlights:Why every goal is a team mistake, not just a goalie mistakeThe one stat coaches can track at any level (and how to use it properly)How turnovers at the blue line shape wins, losses, and learningThe fine line between reducing mistakes and killing creativityWhat parents of young players should (and shouldnt) spend money onWhy rentals hold kids back and how to upgrade without breaking the bank Have a question you want answered on a future mailbag episode?Email us at team@ourkidsplayhockey.com or use the link in the episode description. Enjoy the ride, enjoy the rink, and thanks for being part of the Our Kids Play Hockey community. Want a written version you can reference anytime? Check out our companion blog: What Stats Really Matter in Youth Hockey And When to Buy Your Kid Their First Skates#OurKidsPlayHockey #YouthHockey #HockeyParents #HockeyCoaching #Click To Text The Our Kids Play Hockey Team!Our Kids Play Hockey is powered by NHL Sense Arena! Trusted by our kids! Trust it with yours! Trusted at the NHL level through youth hockey, Sense Arena uses VR and mixed reality to build hockey IQ, confidence, and decision-making for skaters and goalies at their own pace. Visit NHL.SenseArena.com/OKPH for their lowest price of the season and use code OKPH to get $25 off an annual plan or headset bundle.Have A Topic You Want Us To Cover? Let us know!Please Be Sure To Subscribe & Leave A Review For Us On Apple Podcasts, doing so helps our show grow!Follow Us On Social Media: Facebook Group X Instagram LinkedIn YouTube