Seth Taylor joins us to provide a profound commentary on the current state of youth sports, and reveals the complexities and challenges inherent in the system.

Every hockey family knows the grind—early ice times, long drives, huge costs, and nonstop competition. But at what point does the grind become damaging? Seth Taylor dig deeps into the mental and emotional toll behind modern youth hockey. He talks about the parents who mean well but unknowingly increase anxiety, the coaches trying to balance development with winning, and the kids caught in the middle. This episode gives hockey families the tools to create healthier athlete-parent relationships and a more positive team culture.

• Seth Taylor emphasizes the need for a cultural transformation in youth sports, focusing on mental and emotional health to create a healthy environment for young athletes.
• The episode highlights the detrimental effects of an overly competitive youth sports culture, where pressure to win can lead to anxiety and trauma among children.
• Taylor's personal journey from a reluctant athlete to a life coach illustrates the profound impact of understanding one's trauma and its manifestation in coaching practices.
• The conversation underscores the importance of parental education in sports, advocating for a shift from a win-at-all-costs mentality to a focus on holistic player development and enjoyment.
• The podcast discusses the significance of establishing a supportive community in youth sports, where the emphasis is placed on personal growth rather than just competition and accolades.
• Seth Taylor advocates for a long-term vision in youth sports, suggesting that meaningful change requires dedication and a willingness to confront the entrenched issues within the industry.

Seth Taylor is an author, Life Coach, father, and director of content for 3A Athletics—a company dedicated to transforming youth sports into a healthy space for coaches, parents, and kids. He has written several books towards this end, including “Hero: Exploring the Depths of Parenting in Youth Sports”, "The 10 Principles of the Car Ride Home", and “The Coaching Revolution: Finding Joy and Excellence in Coaching".

Books by Seth Taylor

3 Athletics Website

High Stick Hockey

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High Stick Hockey

Born from the rink. Built for the game.

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In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Tiana McIntyre, captain and senior defender for the University of Delaware Division I women’s hockey team, whose journey is anything but linear. As Tiana reminds us, “Development is up and down; it’s never static.” From her beginnings in Park City, Utah, to becoming a standout collegiate athlete, Tiana’s story highlights the resilience, passion, and community support that have shaped her path.

We explore how her multi-sport upbringing fueled her evolution as a hockey player, what it meant to represent Utah at national camp, and how coaching alongside women’s hockey legends broadened her vision for the sport. Tiana also shares her commitment to growing the game and the importance of strong role models for the next generation of players.

Tiana McIntyre is one of the captains and a senior defender for the University of Delaware's Division I women's hockey team. McIntyre is from Park City, Utah, and is a graduate of Park City High School. Majoring in Psychology, McIntyre brought her talents to collegiate hockey after developing with the Pittsburgh Penguins Elite program, becoming both the first female hockey player from Utah to make the USA National Camp and the first from the state to play Division I hockey. During the 2024–25 season at Quinnipiac, she appeared in 36 games, registering 21 shots on goal and blocking 16 shots. In 2023–24, she played in 30 games, recording two assists, a plus-6 rating, eight blocked shots, and her first collegiate point in the season opener against Maine on Sept. 29. As a freshman in 2022–23, she appeared in 10 games, contributing to a roster that captured two Nutmeg Classic titles and made an NCAA Tournament appearance in 2023. A multi-sport athlete in high school, McIntyre also competed in lacrosse and ski racing. Athletic excellence runs in the family—her father, Jeff, played baseball at Oklahoma State, and her mother, Tania, played basketball at St. Cloud State.

Takeaways:

1. Tiana McIntyre's journey from Park City, Utah, to collegiate hockey exemplifies the importance of perseverance and commitment in pursuing a passion for sports.
2. Playing multiple sports during youth, such as skiing and lacrosse, significantly contributed to Tiana's development as a skilled hockey player.
3. The support from family and community has been paramount in Tiana's hockey journey, underscoring the importance of teamwork and encouragement in achieving athletic success.
4. Tiana emphasizes the necessity of transitioning to girls' hockey at an early age to adapt to the unique dynamics and pace of the women's game.
5. The inaugural puck drop for the University of Delaware's women's hockey program marked a historic moment, signifying a commitment to advancing women's sports in the community.
6. Tiana emphasizes the importance of mental preparation, visualization, and support systems in achieving success, both as an athlete and a leader.

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The fervor and passion for hockey transcends geographical constraints, as elucidated in this enlightening discussion with Will Stevens, the visionary behind the Trailer Park Sports Network. Will, hailing from a region not traditionally associated with hockey—a cornfield and a cotton field in northern Alabama—shares his remarkable journey of discovering the sport amidst a predominantly football-loving community.

Will Stephens is the creator and driving force behind the Trailer Park Sports Network, a rapidly growing platform known for its unfiltered passion, blue-collar humor, and genuine love for the game. Built from the belief that sports should be accessible, fun, and community-driven, Will has carved out a niche that blends relatable storytelling with sharp sports insight.

With a background in content creation, Will brings a unique mix of authenticity and expertise to the sports media landscape. Whether he’s breaking down plays, highlighting local athletes, or delivering honest takes with a smile, Will’s mission is simple: celebrate the people and stories that make sports great.

When he’s not crafting content from his natural habitat—a single wide trailer in between a corn field and a cotton field—Will is busy shining a spotlight on athletes, coaches, and sports stories that deserve way more attention than his fantasy teams ever got.

Through Trailer Park Sports Network, he’s cultivated a loyal following that appreciates real conversations, real passion, and real impact—on and off the ice.

Equal parts sports philosopher and front-porch comedian, Will has turned Trailer Park Sports Network into the go-to destination for people who love their sports, honest, hilarious, and just a little rough around the edges.

Website

• The Trailer Park Sports Network represents an authentic and passionate approach to sports, particularly in non-traditional hockey markets.
• Will Stevens emphasizes the significance of community in sports and the need for accessibility to hockey for fans in the South.
• Through his journey, Will Stevens showcases the importance of personal growth and development within the sports industry.
• The podcast highlights how unique experiences, such as meeting notable athletes or being featured in broadcasts, shape one's perspective on sports.
• Creating engaging content for sports requires understanding one's audience and connecting with fans on a personal level.
• The discussion illustrates the potential for growth in underrepresented sports and the necessity of fostering a broader appreciation for them.

High Stick Hockey

Your go-to source for premium hockey apparel

Whether you're repping it on the ice or off, High Stick Hockey has the gear that delivers

style, comfort, and durability. From the locker room to the streets, this is hockey lifestyle done right.

And right now, podcast listeners can score 20% off your purchase at www.highstickhockey.co

just use the special code CV3SAVE20 at checkout!

Trust us, you won’t be disappointed with the quality. It’s gear that’s as tough and true as the game itself.

High Stick Hockey

Born from the rink. Built for the game.

Play It Again Sports Newark

When the ice calls, you answer. But to answer, you need the right gear. Play

It Again Sports Newark has everything you need to take your game to the

next level. From quality used gear at a great price to get you started, to top

of the line new products for your semi-pro tournament season, Play It Again

Sports...

The podcast episode features an in-depth discussion with Mason Ralph, a distinguished assistant coach for Our Lady of Good Counsel ice hockey and assistant captain for the Washington Capital Warriors. With nearly three decades of playing experience, Mason reflects upon the formative years of his hockey journey, beginning at an exceptionally young age when he first stepped onto the ice, captivated by the sport. This episode meticulously explores the evolution of his playing career, highlighting the impact of his childhood experiences on his current coaching philosophy. Mason discusses the importance of fostering a strong team culture and leadership among youth players, emphasizing the vital lessons learned from both hockey and his military service in the Marine Corps. Throughout the episode, he articulates the significance of discipline, teamwork, and leaving a positive impression, both on and off the ice, which correlates closely with his military training. The conversation further delves into how these principles have shaped his coaching style, particularly at Good Counsel, where he successfully led the team to back-to-back championships by instilling a sense of accountability and camaraderie among players.

• Mason Ralph's journey in hockey began at an extraordinarily young age, as he started skating at the tender age of three, which laid the foundation for his extensive hockey career.
• With nearly three decades of experience, Mason emphasizes the significance of leadership and discipline, both in hockey and military service, in shaping his coaching philosophy.
• The camaraderie established within the USA Warriors hockey team fosters a profound sense of belonging and support, which is vital for the mental well-being of its members.
• Mason's coaching approach combines rigorous training with an emphasis on fun, ensuring that players develop both skills and a love for the game.
• The transition from military service to civilian life can be challenging, yet hockey provides a unique avenue for veterans to reconnect and support one another.
• Mason attributes his successful coaching style to lessons learned from both his playing days and his time in the Marine Corps, focusing on the importance of collective responsibility and care for teammates.

Mason Ralph — Assistant Coach for Our Lady of Good Counsel Ice Hockey and Assistant Captain for the Washington Capitals Warriors. With nearly three decades of playing experience and four years behind the bench, Mason brings a rare blend of passion, discipline, and leadership to the game.

After a brief stint coaching before joining the U.S. Marine Corps, Mason returned to the rink three years ago — helping lead Good Counsel to back-to-back championships and developing players who’ve earned multiple individual honors. Known for his energy and attention to detail, Mason serves as the team’s skills development coach, special teams strategist, and self-described “hype man”, keeping the locker room culture positive and focused.

For Mason, Warrior Hockey represents far more than competition — it’s about camaraderie, healing, and purpose. As part of the Washington Capitals Warriors, he’s seen firsthand how the program unites veterans from across the country, restoring the sense of brotherhood and belonging that defines both service and sport.

Among his proudest moments are coaching Good Counsel to a surprise championship run and capturing back-to-back national titles with the Warriors. Off the ice, Mason is a strong advocate...

The podcast episode presents a profound discussion on the multifaceted nature of concussion rehabilitation, specifically targeting the demands placed on youth athletes engaged in contact sports. Dr. Chris Serrao, a distinguished physical therapist and strength conditioning coach, elaborates on the prevalent mechanisms of concussion injuries within the context of hockey, emphasizing the paramount importance of immediate and appropriate assessment following such incidents

Chris is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Strength & Conditioning Coach with experience in concussion rehabilitation as well as orthopedic and sports physical therapy. He is the president and primary physical therapist for RPE Physical Therapy in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he was born and raised (Go Steelers). He has previously served as a Performance Physical Therapist and clinic director at Rehab 2 Perform in Frederick, Maryland. Chris has a special interest in treating patients suffering from concussions. He has co-developed an online continuing education course directed at physical therapists interested in learning about concussion management and has delivered in-person concussion management courses to therapists and physicians. He is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh's Health and Physical Activity program and the University of Pittsburgh's Physical Therapy program.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, Dr. Chris Serrao elucidates the significance of early assessment following a concussion, emphasizing that prompt medical attention can significantly expedite recovery.
• We delve into the intricate relationship between concussions and neck injuries, highlighting how both can present overlapping symptoms that complicate diagnosis.
• Dr. Serrao outlines the critical importance of maintaining a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation that includes strength and conditioning tailored to the needs of athletes recovering from injuries.
• Athletes are strongly encouraged to engage in multiple sports during their developmental years to foster diverse physical competencies and mitigate the risk of overuse injuries.
• The discussion touches upon the necessity of proper hydration, nutrition, and sleep, which collectively contribute to enhanced athletic performance and recovery post-injury.
• Dr. Serrao stresses the importance of utilizing validated assessment tools, such as the SCAT6 and CRT6, to ensure comprehensive evaluation and management of concussions in youth sports.

High Stick Hockey

Your go-to source for premium hockey apparel

Whether you're repping it on the ice or off, High Stick Hockey has the gear that delivers

style, comfort, and durability. From the locker room to the streets, this is hockey lifestyle done right.

And right now, podcast listeners can score 20% off your purchase at

www.highstickhockey.co

just use the special code CV3SAVE20 at checkout!

Trust us, you won’t be disappointed with the quality. It’s gear that’s as tough and true as the

game itself.

High Stick Hockey

Born from the rink. Built for the game.

Play It Again Sports Newark

When the ice calls, you answer. But to answer, you need the right gear. Play

It Again Sports Newark has everything you need to take your game to the

next level. From quality used gear at a great price to get you started, to top

of the line new products for your semi-pro tournament season, Play It Again

Sports Newark has you covered. Expert advice, custom fittings, gear that

works as hard as you do, not to mention on demand skate sharpening

services, their team will make sure you have what you need to...

Jackson Cole, a standout goaltender at St. Michael's College, shares his compelling narrative of resilience and achievement in the realm of collegiate hockey. Having recently secured the NCAA Division 2 National Championship, Jackson reflects on the formative experiences that shaped his approach to the game.

Jackson Cole

Jackson Cole currently plays goalie for Saint Michael's College in Burlington, Vermont. Last season, he won the NCAA Division II National Championship with the Purple Knights.

Prior to attending Saint Michael's, Jackson was a four-year starter and captain for the Hun School of Princeton in New Jersey. There, he finished first team all prep and the prep's saves leader. Cole also played two years of varsity lacrosse at the Hun School.

His hockey resume includes attending the USA district program and being a national camp reserve player, two years of Junior hockey experience in the United States Premier Hockey League (USPHL) and the Canadian-American Junior Hockey League (CAJHL).

Not only does Jackson excel on the ice, but off as well. In high school, he was a member of the National Honor Society and was Student Council Vice President. He is a Dean's List student at Saint Michael's and was inducted into the National College Athlete Honor Society as a business administration and accounting minor.

https://www.eliteprospects.com/player/543833/jackson-cole

https://smcathletics.com/sports/mens-ice-hockey/roster/jackson-cole/10960

• The importance of maturity in a hockey player's development cannot be understated, as it encompasses both physical and mental growth.
• Cultivating a supportive environment for young athletes is essential for their emotional well-being and overall development.
• Positioning has become increasingly critical for goaltenders, as modern play emphasizes fewer athletic saves and more strategic placement.
• A strong team culture, fostered by mutual support and camaraderie, significantly contributes to a successful hockey season.
• Young athletes should focus on enjoying their sport to maintain passion and prevent burnout, rather than solely concentrating on performance metrics.
• Engaging in meaningful conversations with young players about their feelings helps mitigate pressure and fosters healthy emotional growth.

High Stick Hockey

Your go-to source for premium hockey apparel

Whether you're repping it on the ice or off, High Stick Hockey has the gear that delivers

style, comfort, and durability. From the locker room to the streets, this is hockey lifestyle done right.

And right now, podcast listeners can score 20% off your purchase at

www.highstickhockey.co

just use the special code CV3SAVE20 at checkout!

Trust us, you won’t be disappointed with the quality. It’s gear that’s as tough and true as the

game itself.

High Stick Hockey

Born from the rink. Built for the game.

Play It Again Sports Newark

When the ice calls, you answer. But to answer, you need the right gear. Play

It Again Sports Newark has everything you need to take your game to the

next level. From quality used gear at a great price to get you started, to top

of the line new products for your semi-pro tournament season, Play It Again

Sports Newark has you covered. Expert advice, custom

This podcast episode features a profound discussion with Tony Cosenza, affectionately known as Coach Tone, who possesses a wealth of experience in the health and fitness sector, particularly within the realm of youth athletic development. Coach Tone discusses his approach through Total Empowerment Training, a philosophy designed to cultivate not just superior athletes but also well-rounded individuals who are equipped to navigate life's challenges. Throughout the episode, we explore the transformative power of sports as a vehicle for personal growth and the importance of fostering a love for the process of development rather than solely fixating on outcomes.

Tony Cosenza

Tony Cosenza, widely known as "Coach Tone," is a seasoned fitness professional with extensive experience spanning decades in the health & fitness industry.

Having most recently successfully owned and operated CrossFit TE [Total Empowerment] for nearly ten years, he made a pivotal decision to focus his energy on guiding young athletes, from beginner to competitive levels, in their pursuit of holistic success in health, fitness, training, and life.

https://www.totalempowerment.com/

In addition to owning Total Empowerment, Tony is a Certified Professional Coach (CPC) and an Energy Leadership Master Practitioner (ELI-MP).

Takeaways:

• Tony Cosenza emphasizes that the foundation of athletic development lies in power, speed, and strength, which are critical for success in hockey.
• The process of training should prioritize the mental and emotional growth of young athletes alongside their physical capabilities.
• Engaging with young athletes requires a balance of being a mentor, coach, and friend to foster their confidence and resilience in sports.
• Tony advocates for the importance of off-ice training in building a strong athletic foundation, which is often neglected by both parents and young players.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.highstickhockey.co
• www.pucktutor.com
• www.totalempowerment.com
• www.hockeywraparound.com
• https://playitagainsports.com/locations/newark-de/

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• CV3 Hockey Development
• Total Empowerment Training
• High Stick Hockey
• Play It Again Sports
• Hockey Wraparound
• Puck Tutor

High Stick Hockey

Your go-to source for premium hockey apparel

Whether you're repping it on the ice or off, High Stick Hockey has the gear that delivers

style, comfort, and durability. From the locker room to the streets, this is hockey lifestyle done right.

And right now, podcast listeners can score 20% off your purchase at

www.highstickhockey.co

just use the special code CV3SAVE20 at checkout!

Trust us, you won’t be disappointed with the quality. It’s gear that’s as tough and true as the

game itself.

High Stick Hockey

Born from the rink. Built for the game.

Play It Again Sports Newark

When the ice calls, you answer. But to answer, you need the right gear. Play

The episode delves into Tessa Wilson's personal and professional journey, illuminating her path from an aspiring athlete to a mental health advocate. As she shares her experiences of growing up in Saskatchewan and playing hockey in a predominantly male environment, listeners gain insight into the resilience and determination that shaped her career. Tessa articulates the pressures athletes face, particularly the rising incidence of mental health issues among younger players, exacerbated by societal expectations and the competitive nature of sports. Her commitment to fostering an open dialogue about mental health within the athletic community is a clarion call for change, emphasizing the importance of normalizing conversations around mental well-being and providing essential resources for athletes who may feel isolated in their struggles.

Tessa Wilson MACP - RCC

Building a trusting connection is essential when working in vulnerable spaces. She knows how important it is to first see if we’re a good fit. Sport can deeply shape who we are, and through her own experiences, she has come to understand its powerful impact on identity, meaning, and purpose.

Tessa grew up in a small Saskatchewan town, often playing on boys’ hockey teams due to limited opportunities for girls. Eventually, she joined a female AAA team and moved to Weyburn in high school to pursue elite hockey. That transition was challenging but rewarding—and in her final year, she was fortunate to win the National U18 Esso Cup.

Tessa went on to play for the University of Regina Cougars, where she faced new pressures: concussions, identity struggles, and uncertainty about my role on the team. After two years, Tessa transferred to SAIT in Calgary, playing for the Trojans before another concussion led her to step away from the game. Letting go of hockey was incredibly hard. For the first time, she had to navigate life without the title of “athlete.”

That journey, though difficult, helped shape my path. Tessa earned a degree in Sports and Recreation Studies and began working as a Recreation Therapist in Vernon, BC. Eventually, she pursued a Master’s in Counselling Psychology to support others more deeply.

Today, Tessa works with athletes navigating their own challenges and transitions. She believes in the value of professional support and how it can change the course of an athlete’s journey—for the better.

Links

https://unmaskedperformance.janeapp.com/#/staff_member/1/bio

• Tessa Wilson's journey illustrates the significance of professional support in navigating athletic challenges and transitions.
• The podcast emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health issues within the sports community, particularly for young athletes.
• An essential takeaway is how parental involvement can impact an athlete's mental well-being during their journey in sports.
• Listeners learn about the detrimental effects of perfectionism and pressure on young athletes, which can lead to burnout.
• The discussion highlights the necessity for open conversations about mental health in sports, combating the stigma surrounding it.
• Tessa's experience showcases the vital role of self-awareness in fostering resilience and performance in athletes.

• CV3 Hockey Development
• High Stick Hockey
• Play It Again Sports Newark
• Unmasked

Your go-to source for premium hockey apparel

Whether you're repping it on the ice or off, High Stick Hockey has the gear that delivers

style, comfort, and durability. From the locker room to the streets, this is hockey lifestyle...