Ep.2 | Coaching Youth Hockey: Winning, Development, & Parents

Coaching at the youth level isn’t just about systems and skill drills - it’s about shaping people.In this episode of the Built From Steel Podcast, Eric and Andy unpack what it really means to coach youth hockey today and how it compares to coaching elite-level athletes. From managing parent expectations to avoiding the trap of “overcoaching,” this conversation dives into the real challenges coaches face and the mindset needed to do it right.Whether you’re a parent trying to support your kid or a coach navigating the pressure, this episode is for you.Key Moments:0:00 – Intro + updates from the Academy2:39 – Letting your kid enjoy the game6:20 – Loyalty, attitude, and what actually makes sense9:25 – Docu-series + Team App updates14:00 – Academy team review15:00 – Coaching girls vs boys17:00 – Coaching youth vs high-level athletes18:00 – Why coaching youth is harder than you think19:10 – The danger of overcoaching22:45 – Parent feedback vs staying true to your coaching philosophy24:10 – Coaching to develop vs coaching to win27:15 – The pressure on youth hockey coaches29:30 – What are fair expectations from parents?36:15 – Defining your coaching philosophy42:00 – Give coaches some grace46:00 – Don’t forget what it’s like to be the player52:00 – When is it fair to judge a coach?54:30 – Coaching is a position of power — handle it responsibly56:30 – How much talent do you really have to work with?57:30 – Why over-barking at kids does more harm than goodStay Connected:Watch the Academy docu-series Built From Steel on YouTube.Follow us on socials: @BuiltFromSteelSeriesPartner accounts:@BioSteelSports@BioSteelSportsAcademy@CoachEpzoloThe Built From Steel Podcast is a division of BioSteel Sports.Learn more at www.biosteel.com

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