Welcome to Episode 13 of the On Call Coaches podcast, where hosts Coach Switz and Coach Zane dive into the art of amateur player development. This holiday week, we tackle the common parental frustration of encouraging kids to practice at home, making it fun rather than a chore, and the value of spending quality time with your children through sports. We also discuss the importance of using video footage for self-analysis in sports, providing insights and practical tips for parents and coaches to help young athletes improve their game. Join us for a blend of humor, personal anecdotes, and actionable advice, all from Tulsa, Oklahoma, where Coach Zane is enjoying some family time and golf.

Timeline Summary:

• 00:00 - 01:12: Introduction by Coach Switz, welcoming listeners to the podcast and introducing the hosts, with a note that Coach Zane is on a trip.

• 01:12 - 01:40: Coach Zane checks in from Tulsa, Oklahoma, for the Christmas holidays, discussing his golf game and family time.

• 01:40 - 02:17: Conversation about golf, leading into the main topic of encouraging kids to practice at home.

• 02:17 - 04:37: Discussion on making practice fun for kids, sharing personal anecdotes like using credit cards for targets and competitions for shooting pucks.

• 04:37 - 05:10: Extending the concept of fun practice to other sports, using examples from soccer.

• 05:10 - 07:11: The importance of quality time during practice; Coach Zane shares stories about connecting with his daughters through their interests, not just sports.

• 07:11 - 08:54: More on how to make practice engaging rather than assigning it like homework, with specific tips like turning shooting into a points game.

• 08:54 - 10:11: Addressing the issue of overloading practice, emphasizing the need for structured and fun sessions to avoid bad habits.

• 10:11 - 11:31: Reinforcing the fun aspect of practice while subtly integrating skill improvement without making it feel like work.

• 11:31 - 12:01: Transition to discussing the use of video for coaching, highlighting how technology has changed athlete training.

• 12:01 - 14:37: Coach Zane explains the effectiveness of video feedback for athletes, allowing them to see and learn from their own gameplay.

• 14:37 - 16:15: Wrapping up the episode with a summary of making practice fun and the benefits of video self-analysis, with holiday wishes and plans for the next episode.

This episode gives listeners practical strategies for engaging young athletes in both practice and self-improvement through the lens of personal coaching stories and experiences.

Episode Description:

In this episode, Alex and Zane start with a hilarious and insightful conversation about balancing the chaos of club and high school hockey schedules. They share tips on managing priorities, avoiding burnout, and the importance of communication between players, parents, and coaches (spoiler: surprises are bad). Zane even takes us on a detour to Newfoundland, where hockey made him the unofficial mayor of a small fishing town and earned him a seat at every family dinner. Meanwhile, Alex dives into what it takes to start coaching and why committing to the job is like jumping into a frozen lake—you’re either all in, or you’re not in at all.

Then, they’re joined by Coach Corey Cannon, who takes us on a journey through his hockey career. From racking up penalty minutes at Mizzou to coaching at Clayton High School, Corey shares his thoughts on building a winning program, the state of high school hockey in St. Louis, and how video coaching can transform a player’s development. Expect funny stories about late-night puck drops at Kentucky, advice for aspiring coaches, and reflections on what it means to leave a legacy in hockey.

This episode is packed with laughs, lessons, and plenty of hockey wisdom. Whether you’re a player, coach, or just a fan of the game, this one’s for you!

Timeline:

0:00-1:30 – Intro: Alex and Zane chat about a big college signing and set the stage for today’s guest.

1:31-6:00 – Balancing Club and High School Hockey: Tips on managing schedules, priorities, and communication.

6:01-9:00 – Starting Your Coaching Journey: How to get into coaching and build lasting connections.

9:01-11:30 – Introducing Coach Corey Cannon: A closer look at his playing and coaching career.

11:31-14:30 – College Hockey Tales: Mizzou penalty minutes, midnight games, and club hockey pride.

14:31-18:00 – Coaching at Mizzou and Clayton: Building programs and creating lasting legacies.

18:01-22:00 – State of High School Hockey: Corey’s take on the growing talent and areas for improvement in St. Louis.

22:01-25:00 – The Power of Video Coaching: Leveraging tech to develop hockey IQ and positioning.

25:01-28:00 – Reflections on STL Hockey Training: Corey shares his experience working with Alex and Zane.

28:01-30:00 – Outro: Wrapping up with thanks, laughs, and a promise from Corey to visit STLHT soon.

Episode Description:

In this episode of the On Call Coaches Podcast, Coach Switz and Coach Zane dive into the crucial topic of team roles. From leadership to grit players, they discuss how understanding, embracing, and excelling in your role can lead to personal and team success. They highlight examples like the playmaker, the enforcer, and even the locker room chemistry guy, all while sharing actionable advice for players looking to solidify their position on a team.

Then, they welcome their guest, Allie Granato, a hockey coach and former player with an impressive resume. Allie shares her journey from playing for the Chicago Fury to her standout college career at the University of Vermont, where she was a three-time Barbara Bates Award recipient. She delves into her coaching philosophy, the challenges of growing up in a prominent hockey family, and the advice she has for young players looking to advance their careers.

Timeline

1. [00:00:00] Introduction

   Coach Switz and Coach Zane welcome listeners and share updates from their morning lessons, focusing on helping players improve on-ice positioning and stick placement.

2. [00:03:00] Understanding Team Roles

   Discussion on identifying different roles on a hockey team, including leadership, playmakers, grinders, and more. The coaches share insights into how players can find and excel in their roles.

3. [00:11:30] Adapting to New Teams

   Tips for players transitioning to higher levels of hockey or new teams, emphasizing attitude, building trust, and being a good teammate.

4. [00:15:00] Embracing Your Role

   The coaches share advice on accepting roles, whether as a first-line scorer, a faceoff specialist, or a locker room motivator, and highlight the importance of positivity and adaptability.

5. [00:19:00] Interview with Allie Granato

   Introduction to Allie Granato, covering her hockey background, experiences playing for the Chicago Fury, and her transition to the University of Vermont.

6. [00:25:00] Navigating Pressure and Family Legacy

   Allie discusses the challenges and advantages of growing up in a prominent hockey family and how she learned to manage expectations.

7. [00:30:00] The Evolution of Roles in Hockey

   Insights from Allie on how players’ roles can change as they progress in their careers and the importance of being adaptable and supportive as a teammate.

8. [00:38:00] Private Coaching and Player Development

   Allie shares her current work as a professional skills coach in Boston, her approach to player development, and how she uses video review to help players improve.

9. [00:45:00] Advice for Young Players

   Allie offers advice for young female players aspiring to play at higher levels, emphasizing the importance of hard work, resilience, and being a great teammate.

10. [00:50:00] Closing Thoughts

    Final reflections from Allie and the hosts on the importance of embracing roles, working hard, and supporting teammates. Allie shares how listeners can connect with her for private coaching or video review.

In this special episode of the On Call Coaches Podcast, Coach Switz and Coach Zane take a break from interviews to share their story. From growing up as hockey rivals to becoming business partners, they recount how their shared passion for player development led to the creation of STL Hockey Training. Learn about their journey through challenges like finding the right facility, building their business, and staying true to their mission of helping athletes succeed.

The episode also dives into practical tips for parents and youth athletes, with advice on nutrition, training routines, and making the most of your hockey journey. Tune in for a mix of nostalgia, insight, and inspiration.

Timeline Summary

0:00 - 2:50: Intro and Small Talk

• Coach Zane shares highlights from his recent Disney World trip.

2:51 - 8:30: The Origin Story

• How Coach Switz and Coach Zane met, from childhood hockey rivals to college and early coaching days.

• Zane’s early coaching journey and how Switz joined the coaching team.

8:31 - 15:00: Founding STL Hockey Training

• Starting their first camp, “Hockey IQ,” and the transition to building their first facility.

• Challenges like skate sharpening, lessons scheduling, and balancing work/life.

15:01 - 21:00: Growth and Lessons Learned

• Expansion to multiple locations, adapting to client feedback, and creating a sustainable model.

• The move to their larger De Pere facility and its impact on older players.

21:01 - 27:30: Nutrition Tips for Youth Athletes

• Practical advice for fueling young athletes, from eggs to whole foods and easy snack prep.

• Tips for parents on grocery shopping and meal planning.

27:31 - 29:00: Wrap-Up

• Reflecting on the journey, sharing stats about STL Hockey Training’s current success, and teasing future podcast episodes.

Episode Description:

In this episode of the On Call Coaches Podcast, Coach Switz and Coach Zane discuss the benefits of cross-training in sports and how it complements hockey and other athletic pursuits. They are joined by Blake Chatham, a decorated jiu-jitsu competitor and personal trainer, who shares insights from his 20+ years of experience in martial arts and coaching. Tune in as they dive into cross-training strategies, the discipline of jiu-jitsu, and how to optimize youth and adult athletic development.

Timeline:

1. [00:00–01:30] Intro

2. • Coaches Switz and Zane discuss their weekends and introduce the episode's topic: cross-training in sports.

3. [01:31–07:08] Cross-Training in Sports

4. • Exploring how basketball, lacrosse, swimming, karate, and wrestling complement hockey and build complete athletes.

5. [07:09–10:03] Introducing Blake Chatham

6. • Blake’s accolades: Missouri State silver medalist, Branson Open gold medalist, and experienced jiu-jitsu coach.

7. [10:04–12:25] Lessons from Losing

8. • Blake shares how a "salty loss" reignited his passion for competition and improved his training.

9. [12:26–14:43] Identifying Weaknesses

10. • The importance of self-awareness in improving skills and overcoming athletic limitations.

11. [14:44–21:53] Jiu-Jitsu Basics and Philosophy

12. • Differences between gi and no-gi jiu-jitsu, and how the sport translates into life lessons and athletic development.

13. [21:54–31:13] Coaching Kids in Jiu-Jitsu

14. • How Blake structures youth classes, balances self-defense with sports training, and builds confidence in children.

15. [31:14–40:35] Personal Training for Athletes

16. • Blake outlines optimal training routines for hockey players and the role of balance, mobility, and core strength.

17. [40:36–43:00] When to Start Weights for Kids

18. • Discussion on introducing weight training to youth athletes and alternatives like calisthenics and plyometrics.

Coach Alex Switzer and Coach Zane dive into the challenges of “leveling up” in sports, discussing what it takes for players to transition to a new team or higher level and establish themselves as standout contributors.

Our guest is Coach Jessica Maddox, a former NCAA D1 goalkeeper from Troy University who transitioned her passion for soccer into a successful coaching career. Jessica shares her journey from player to mentor, emphasizing technical and mental growth in soccer development. She also talks about:

• Balancing intensity and recovery during tournaments.

• How video analysis enhances player development.

• Tips for young athletes navigating the shift to higher levels of play.

• Finding and fostering goalkeepers in youth soccer programs.

Jessica provides practical advice for players and coaches alike, with actionable strategies to elevate their game. Whether you're a coach, parent, or player, this episode is packed with wisdom and motivation.

💡 Learn more about Coach Jessica Maddox’s work or book a video review with her on OnCallCoaches.com. Happy listening!

Episode Timeline

00:00 – 02:24:Introduction to the podcast and today’s topic: transitioning to higher levels in sports. Alex and Zane discuss key takeaways from morning hockey practices.

02:25 – 04:47:Breaking into a new team—establishing work ethic, earning respect, and avoiding common mistakes.

04:48 – 06:57:How long it typically takes to rise to the top of a team after leveling up. The importance of patience and preparation.

06:58 – 09:07:Coaches' perspectives: integrating new players into a team’s culture and improving decision-making.

09:08 – 11:25:Interview introduction: Jessica Maddox’s career as a D1 athlete and her coaching journey.

11:26 – 13:47:Jessica on transitioning from high school to college sports and the importance of structure in development.

13:48 – 16:10:Standing out in a competitive environment—Jessica’s approach to setting and achieving goals.

16:11 – 18:36:Advice for athletes transitioning to higher levels: balancing fun with discipline.

18:37 – 20:57:Mental health and resilience as a goalkeeper: learning from failures and staying focused under pressure.

20:58 – 23:20:Developing young players and identifying goalkeepers in youth soccer.

23:21 – 25:44:Coaching philosophy: fostering independence and decision-making in players.

25:45 – 28:05:Jessica’s approach to season planning and periodization to prevent injuries.

28:06 – 30:21:Weekly training breakdown for high-level athletes, balancing fitness, technical, and tactical work.

30:22 – 34:41:Recovery and video analysis—managing fatigue while using video to improve skills.

34:42 – 39:17:How private coaching differs from club training and its role in player development.

39:18 – 41:35:The unique demands of goalkeeping and teaching players to self-correct.

41:36 – 45:53:The benefits of video analysis and specific angles for optimal feedback.

45:54 – 48:18:Jessica’s coaching rates on On Call Coaches and final thoughts on athlete development.

48:19 – 50:00:Closing remarks: insights on overuse injuries, recovery, and reaching your full potential in sports.

In this episode, Coaches Switz and Zane dive deep into the essentials of athletic development, discussing a timeless coaching debate: practicing fundamentals over flashy moves. Joining them is Coach Aaron Raffel, head coach of George Mason University’s club football team and former DC Divas defensive coordinator. Coach Raffel shares valuable insights on developing players by focusing on foundational skills rather than one-off flashy plays, explaining how this approach creates more adaptable and skilled athletes. With anecdotes from coaching both male and female teams, Coach Raffel emphasizes discipline, teamwork, and a mindset that prepares players for both game day and life. Don’t miss his stories of players who’ve excelled by trusting the process and the advice he offers to high school athletes aiming for the next level.

Timeline:

• 00:00 – 02:00 – Introduction: Coaches Switz and Zane talk weather, weekend highlights, and kick off the episode topic.

• 02:00 – 07:00 – Fundamentals vs. Flashy: Why practicing repeatable skills outweighs flashy one-time moves.

• 07:00 – 13:00 – The Pyramid of Skills: Building a foundation for consistent improvement and age-appropriate progression.

• 13:00 – 16:00 – Structured vs. Unstructured Practice: Allowing space for fun while sticking to skill-building in structured practice.

• 16:00 – 18:00 – Transition to the Guest: Introducing Coach Aaron Raffel and his coaching background.

• 18:00 – 25:00 – Coach Raffel on Skill-Building: Developing football players for skills, not just game plans.

• 25:00 – 32:00 – Pushing Players Outside: Coach Raffel explains his defensive approach to edge-running plays.

• 32:00 – 38:00 – Working with Female Athletes: Coach Raffel’s experiences coaching women in the WFA and integrating women into his staff.

• 38:00 – 45:00 – Success Stories: Memorable player development stories that show the power of foundational skills.

• 45:00 – 52:00 – Off-the-Field Development: How work ethic and off-field habits shape successful athletes.

• 52:00 – 57:00 – Tips for High School Athletes: Coach Raffel’s advice for players seeking to level up and get recruited.

• 57:00 – 1:00:00 – Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up: Hosts reflect on the discussion, thank Coach Raffel, and close the episode.

On this episode of the On Call Coaches Podcast, Coach Switz and Coach Zane dive deep into the values of accountability and leadership within team sports. The episode kicks off with a humorous anecdote about Coach Switz's nephew and his newfound responsibility, setting the stage for an exploration of what it means to be a great team leader on and off the field. Our guest, Bruce Johnson, a former James Madison University football standout and current high school coach, shares his journey from player to coach, his experience in championship teams, and his insights on building team culture. Bruce’s tips on handling pre-game nerves, focusing on fundamentals, and supporting athletes as both a coach and a parent make this a must-listen for anyone in youth and amateur sports. Tune in for an episode packed with actionable advice and powerful stories about growth, accountability, and leadership.

Timeline Summary:

0:00 - Intro & Story: Coaches Switz and Zane introduce the episode with a story about accountability sparked by Coach Switz's nephew.

3:00 - Defining Leadership: Discussion on the role of team captains and the importance of leaders both on and off the field.

6:00 - Team Bonding: How genuine friendships and off-field relationships build stronger, more accountable teams.

8:00 - Introducing Bruce Johnson: Background on Bruce’s athletic career and accomplishments at James Madison University.

9:00 - Championship Season: Bruce recounts his team's journey to the national championship and the role of player accountability.

13:00 - Coaches vs. Player Leadership: Differences between coach-led and player-led accountability, and how both impact team success.

15:00 - Handling Pre-Game Pressure: Bruce’s approach to managing adrenaline in high-stakes games and keeping a balanced mindset.

17:00 - Routine and Superstitions: Bruce shares his pre-game ritual and the importance of a consistent warm-up routine.

25:00 - Transition to Coaching: How Bruce’s experience as a player influences his coaching style, and why he prioritizes fundamentals.

38:00 - Balancing Dad and Coach Roles: Bruce reflects on supporting his daughter in competitive softball while balancing his role as both coach and father.

45:00 - Advice for Young Athletes: Bruce’s final advice to aspiring athletes about studying their game and becoming students of their sport.

49:00 - Closing Remarks: Coaches wrap up the episode and thank Bruce for his time, with a final reminder to check out Bruce on OnCallCoaches.com.