Hockey

USA Hockey: Next Generation

Step into the future of the game with USA Hockey: Next Generation — the official podcast spotlighting the rising stars, innovative minds, and evolving culture of hockey across the country. Each episode dives into the stories shaping tomorrow’s game, from youth and adult players to coaches, officials, and trailblazers driving change at every level. Whether you’re a lifelong fan, a weekend warrior, or just discovering the sport, join us for inspiring interviews, behind-the-scenes insights, and fresh perspectives on how hockey is growing, adapting, and thriving in communities nationwide.

Latest Episodes:

USA Hockey Development League: First Invited Programs Revealed Oct 05, 2026

Show notes

USA Hockey introduces its new Development League (DL) on this episode of the USA Hockey Next Gen Podcast. Host Dave Fischer is joined by Scott Paluch, who will serve as DL Commissioner, and Bob Mancini, Assistant Executive Director of Hockey Development, to discuss why the league was created, how programs were selected, and what its launch means for American hockey.

#usahockey #developmentleague #teamusa

Rod Braceful on Recruiting, Development, and the NTDP Sep 17, 2026

Show notes

Episode Description:

Lyndsey Fry and Drew Shore sit down with Rod Braceful,senior director of the USA Hockey National Team Development Program, to breakdown how the NTDP develops players, evaluates talent, and prepares teenagersfor hockey and life. The conversation also digs into how the changing collegehockey landscape is affecting recruiting, and why the program still emphasizescharacter, drive, and versatility over pure skill.

Key Points From This Episode:

00:00 - Welcome to the podcast and Rod’s role with the NTDP

05:10 - How NCAA changes are making recruiting morecompetitive

17:22 - How to choose between a better player today and abetter player later

24:00 - What a full NTDP day looks like and the life skillsplayers learn

29:19 - What parents and players should start, stop, andcontinue doing

34:10 - Why late bloomers and overlooked players still havea real path

37:30 - Rapid-fire questions and Rod’s bestplayer-development advice

38:57 - How NHL teams should rethink player developmentafter drafting

41:14 - Closing thoughts on camaraderie, development, andprogram success
Links:

USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠

USA Hockey National Development Team Program: https://www.usahockeyntdp.com/

Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠

Lyndsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠

Mike Garman on Development, Recruiting, and the Path to the Next Level Sep 03, 2026

Show notes

Episode Description:
In this episode, Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry sit down with Mike Garman, Associate Head Hockey Coach at Notre Dame and former head coach and general manager of the Chicago Steel, to discuss recruiting, player development, and the mental side of hockey success. They explore how young players can continue to improve, why versatility is such a valuable asset, and how parents can best support their kids throughout their hockey journey.
Key Points From This Episode:

00:00 - Season 2 begins: what listeners can expect from thepodcast

01:36 - Why college recruiting and NIL make Mike’sperspective timely

02:39 - Lindsay’s recruiting path and the importance ofeducation

04:43 - Drew’s path through the national development programand University of Denver

05:31 - Why academics can narrow college hockeyopportunities

06:20 - Introducing Mike from Notre Dame

07:09 - How a temporary goalie-coach role became a coachingcareer

10:03 - What set elite USHL players apart beyond talent

11:32 - Balancing strengths with weakness development

13:22 - Teaching players to think the game and make the nextplay

17:34 - Recruiting timelines and why grades matter so much

19:30 - Late bloomers and why 16 is not the whole story

20:29 - What college coaches look for in a recruit

22:44 - Work ethic, attitude, and competing through mistakes

23:50 - How parents should think about development foryounger players

26:39 - Where families should invest limited resources

29:47 - Do 3-on-3 and small-area games create bad habits?

32:02 - Shooting habits that create better goal-scoringchances

37:30 - Training game-like situations and using incentivesin practice

39:22 - Why versatility at multiple positions increasesopportunity

41:41 - Notre Dame freshman Sammy Nelson and rapid firebegins

42:36 - Why trying to fool college coaches is a bad idea

46:01 - Post-interview reflections from Lindsay and Drew

48:00 - Why recovery after mistakes matters more thanperfection

51:13 - Top takeaways for parents and players

Links:

USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠

Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠

Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠

Insights from Ken Martel: USA Hockey’s Player & Coach Development Vision May 26, 2026

Show notes

Episode Description: In this episode, Ken Martel, Senior Director of Player and Coach Development at USA Hockey, shares his extensive experience on building a resilient, versatile, and player-centered hockey culture. We dive into how development strategies have evolved, the importance of multi-sport participation, and the future of hockey player development.Key Points From This Episode:00:00 - Introduction: Ken Martel’s role and background in USA Hockey00:47 - Ken reflects on his journey from player to coach and organizational leader02:30 - Evolution of the U.S. national development program and its greater capacity for coaching03:44 - Impact of technology and tailored player development in the NTDP04:54 - USA Hockey’s philosophy on athlete and coach development as a systemic approach08:52 - Balancing competition and learning in youth hockey11:27 - Building confidence and retention through process-oriented coaching12:31 - Addressing coaching strategies for players with varied skill backgrounds15:49 - The rationale behind the creation of the American Development Model in response to participation challenges19:58 - The role of small-sided, live-action games in skill and decision-making development22:55 - Clarifying the difference between technique and skill execution in game settings25:12 - Developing versatility through positional changes and embracing discomfort29:36 - The importance of multi-sport participation for athletic adaptability35:01 - The value of exposing young players to multiple environments for long-term growth43:09 - Selecting and cultivating future coaching talent in USA Hockey44:42 - The qualities that make a coach stand out, beyond technical skills48:47 - Key attributes for young athletes: resilience and perseverance49:13 - The fulfilling aspects of USA Hockey’s mission to serve and help players and coaches50:39 - Closing remarks: the importance of collaboration and continuous growthLinks:USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠ Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠ Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠

Breaking Barriers: Growing Deaf & Hard of Hearing Hockey May 07, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of theUSA Hockey Next Gen podcast, Lyndsey Fry and Drew Shore are joined by Kevin Delaney, USA Hockey’s Deaf and Hard of Hearing representative and president of the American Hearing Impaired Hockey Association. Kevin shares his personal journeygrowing up in the game with hearing loss and how that led to a lifelong commitment to growing accessibility in hockey. The conversation examines how Deaf and Hard of Hearing hockey operates, the importance of communication andinclusion, and the role coaches and programs play in creating supportive environments. Kevin also discusses the history and impact of AHIHA, the growth of the Deaf national teams, and his vision for expanding opportunities—especially on the women’s side—while continuing to build a strong, connected hockey community.

Key Points From ThisEpisode:

[00:00:30] Introduction of hosts and overview ofthe episode featuring Kevin Delaney.

[00:01:39] Kevin Delaney’s role and the missionof Deaf and Hard of Hearing hockey.

[00:03:47] Explanation of Deaf and Hard ofHearing hockey classifications and participation guidelines.

[00:05:38] Importance of accessibility,communication methods, and inclusion beyond equipment.

[00:07:04] Kevin’s playing background andtransition into coaching and leadership.

[00:08:30] Impact of hockey camps in buildingcommunity for Deaf and Hard of Hearing players and families.

[00:10:26] Evolution of coaching philosophy andadapting communication for individual athletes.

[00:12:06] History andfounding of the American Hearing Impaired Hockey Association (AHIHA).

[00:13:00] Growth of the hockey school and itsrole in developing national team players.

[00:17:19] Kevin’s role within USA Hockey andefforts to expand awareness and participation.

[00:20:46] Creating inclusive environments andfostering a sense of belonging for all players.

[00:23:18] Story of athlete development andconfidence gained through Deaf hockey programs.

[00:26:15] Vision for the future, includinggrowth of women’s Deaf hockey internationally.

[00:28:16] Advice for Deaf and Hard of Hearingplayers and families in mainstream hockey.

[00:29:24] Key changes in Deaf hockey, includingincreased participation and technology advancements.

[00:30:53] Influential Deaf athletes and leadersmaking an impact on and off the ice.

[00:32:06] Closing reflections on inclusion,growth, and continuing to build accessible hockey communities.

Links:

USA Hockey- ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠

Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠

Lyndsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠

Hockey, Beaches, and Big Wins: Inside the 2026 USA Hockey Long Drink Women’s National Championships Apr 24, 2026

Show notes

Key Points From This Episode:[00:00] Introduction to the USA Hockey Next Generation Podcast and overview of the episode. [00:00:26] Host Lindsay Fry introduces guest Laura Verheranta. [00:00:50] Laura shares a look into her team, the LA Lions, and their Nationals experience. [00:01:04] Discussion of team vibe, fun, and the benefits of the one‑game‑per‑day schedule. [00:01:24] What motivates adult players to attend Nationals and memorable moments like beach trips. [00:01:53] Shark‑tooth hunting and exploring local Florida activities. [00:02:14]Team strategies, game forecasting, and embracing the full tournament experience. [00:02:31] Introduction of guest Tori Pizzuto and her double‑rostering journey. [00:02:43] Tori explains the benefits of playing on multiple teams and the strength of long‑standing community ties. [00:03:34] Why she returns each year and how competition levels have evolved. [00:04:18] Comparing this tournament to others, highlighting camaraderie and competitive seriousness. [00:04:49] How teams prepare, scout, and approach Nationals with a competitive mindset. [00:05:36] Introduction of Kenzie from the Carolina Lady Hurricanes and her team’s recent success. [00:05:56] Kenzie discusses feeling physically and emotionally “hot” and confident during the event. [00:07:20] Kenzie’s year‑round hockey routine across multiple leagues and why consistent play matters. [00:08:00] Game strategy, team chemistry, and pre‑game plans — including off‑ice bonding. [00:08:33] Closing remarks and well wishes for the tournament, emphasizing camaraderie and fun.Links: USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠ Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠

Building the Future: Bob Mancini on USA Hockey’s Development Pathway Mar 17, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of USA Hockey’s Next Generation Podcast, hosts Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry sit down with Bob Mancini, Assistant Executive Director of Hockey Development at USA Hockey. Bob shares his journey from high-performance coaching to leading grassroots development and helping launch the American Development Model (ADM). The conversation covers the evolution of the ADM, the long-term approach to player development, the origins and impact of the National Team Development Program (NTDP), and the upcoming USA Hockey Development League. Bob also discusses global collaboration, coaching education, and how USA Hockey is expanding access while preparing players for success at every level.

Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] Introduction of Bob Mancini and his role as Assistant Executive Director of Hockey Development.

[00:05:45] Bob reflects on shifting from high-performance coaching to a grassroots, player-centered mindset.

[00:08:00] How the ADM has evolved from a technique-heavy focus to emphasizing game-applicable skill.

[00:10:55] What practices looked like before the ADM and the shift away from line drills to active, station-based training.

[00:14:26] The importance of long-term development and viewing each athlete as “an experiment of one.”

[00:18:28] The origins of the NTDP and its role in elevating U.S. performance on the world stage.

[00:25:20] The depth of American talent today and how development pathways have expanded.

[00:26:34] Patrick Kane’s story as the last player selected to the NTDP and a reminder that development is not linear.

[00:29:15] Overview of the USA Hockey Development League and its purpose within the high-performance pathway.

[00:32:17] Launch timeline, age groups (15U and 17U), and development-focused structure of the Development League.

[00:37:56] Collaboration with international federations and the value of a growth mindset in development.

[00:42:39] Expanding access to the game through initiatives like Try Hockey for Free and multi-sport advocacy.

[00:48:41] The critical importance of coaching at younger age groups and early introduction versus specialization.

[00:52:57] “The most important age group is the one the child is in” — reinforcing the value of development at every stage.

Links:

USA Hockey -⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠⁠

Drew Shore -⁠ ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠⁠

Lindsey Fry -⁠ ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠⁠

2026 Chipotle USA Hockey Youth National Championship Selection Show: Brackets, Teams, & Tournament Storylines Mar 13, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the USA Hockey Next Generation Podcast, Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry host the official 2026 Chipotle-USA Hockey Youth National Championship Youth Selection Show. The episode walks through the bracket reveal for both Tier I and Tier II youth divisions, highlighting teams from across the country that will compete for a national title.

Along the way, USA Hockey’s Rich Hansen joins the show to provide insight into tournament structure, the at-large selection process, and the continued growth of youth hockey in both traditional and emerging markets. Coaches from several qualifying teams also share their perspectives on preparing for the biggest stage of the youth season.

The conversation explores the importance of development pathways, the role of culture and confidence in youth hockey, and how Chipotle-USA Hockey Nationals create meaningful experiences for players at every level of the game.

Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] Opening introduction to the USA Hockey Next Gen podcast.

[00:00:25] Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry introduce the bracket reveal and begin with the 13O Tier I youth division.

[00:00:33] Teams in the 13O Tier I American Pool are announced.

[00:01:47] The 13O Tier I National Pool is revealed.

[00:02:56] Rich Hansen explains the unique tournament format for the 13O division and discusses top contenders.

[00:04:41] The bracket reveal begins for the 14U Tier I youth division.

[00:05:10] Pittsburgh Penguins Elite head coach Trevor Edwards joins the show to discuss his team’s style of play and preparation for nationals.

[00:08:02] Additional 14U Tier I pools and matchups are announced across the Olympic, NHL, and Liberty brackets.

[00:10:47] The hosts reveal the bracket for the 15O Tier I division.

[00:12:12] Drew Shore shares his personal experience attempting to qualify for youth nationals during his playing career.

[00:13:59] Rich Hansen previews the 15O division and highlights teams to watch.

[00:15:43] The bracket reveal continues with the 16U Tier I division.

[00:17:06] Dallas Stars Elite head coach Eric Silverman discusses preparing players for the pressure and opportunity of competing at nationals.

[00:20:04] Rich Hansen highlights key programs to watch in the 16U division and discusses the impact of players advancing to the NTDP and junior leagues.

[00:21:51] The hosts reveal the bracket for the 18U Tier I division.

[00:22:06] Culver Academies head coach Kevin Patrick joins the show to talk about team structure, leadership, and returning players motivated by last year’s semifinal loss.

[00:26:59] Rich Hansen discusses the unique dynamics of the 18U division, including split-season teams and players balancing prep school hockey.

[00:28:44] Sponsor message from Chipotle before transitioning to Tier II youth divisions.

[00:28:59] Introduction to the Tier II tournament structure and the large number of associations competing across the country.

[00:30:12] Rich Hansen explains the 3A, 2A, and 1A classification system used to organize Tier II Nationals.

[00:33:06] Discussion of how at-large bids are awarded in Tier II and how unexpected invitations can give teams a second chance.

[00:34:01] Bracket reveal begins for the 14U Tier II divisions.

[00:40:21] The hosts introduce the 16U Tier II divisions and discuss how teams from emerging markets are growing the game.

[00:46:32] Conversation about youth development, confidence, and why playing time and environment can matter more than simply playing at the highest level.

[00:48:20] The 18U Tier II divisions are revealed, highlighting programs from across the country.

[00:50:16] Discussion about the competitiveness of Tier II hockey.

[00:53:34] Final reflections on development pathways and why thriving in the right environment is critical for young players.

Links:

USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠

Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠

Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠

2026 Chipotle USA Hockey Girls Nationals Selection Show Mar 13, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the USA Hockey Next Generation Podcast, Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry host the official 2026 Chipotle USA Hockey Girls National Championship Selection Show. Joined by USA Hockey’s Kristen Saegert, the group reveals the teams competing across Tier I and Tier II divisions at the 14U, 16U, and 19U levels.

The show breaks down key matchups, highlights emerging programs from across the country, and discusses the continued growth of girls hockey in both traditional and developing markets. Coaches from Shattuck-St. Mary’s, BK Selects, Cleveland Lady Barons, Steel City Selects, and Utah Lady Grizzlies join the program to discuss their teams and preparation for the national stage.

From powerhouse programs to first-time qualifiers, the episode captures the excitement surrounding the road to a national championship and the expanding opportunities for girls hockey across the United States.

Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] Opening introduction and welcome to the 2026 Chipotle Girls National Championship Selection Show.

[00:00:25] Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry introduce the show and welcome USA Hockey’s Kristen Saegert.

[00:01:05] Tier I 14U bracket is revealed across the USA, Olympic, NHL, and Liberty pools.

[00:02:16] Discussion of top teams to watch in the 14U division and expectations for the tournament.

[00:03:38] Conversation about the continued growth of girls hockey, highlighted by programs like the Carolina Hurricanes.

[00:03:58] Tier I 16U bracket announcement begins.

[00:04:42] Interview with Shattuck-St. Mary’s coach Ellie Williams-Doherty on preparing for nationals.

[00:08:14] Remaining 16U NHL and Liberty pool matchups are revealed.

[00:09:06] Discussion about Olympic momentum and the continued growth of girls hockey nationwide.

[00:09:51] Minnesota’s split-season development model is explained.

[00:10:37] Tier I 19U bracket announcement.

[00:11:54] Interview with BK Selects coach Cari Coen about her team’s preparation for nationals.

[00:14:39] Conversation about the impact of the PWHL and increased visibility for women’s hockey.

[00:17:04] Recap of the Tier I girls selections.

[00:17:18] Sponsor message.

[00:17:33] Tier II tournament coverage begins with the 14U 2A bracket reveal.

[00:19:30] Discussion about how teams prepare during the gap between qualification and the national tournament.

[00:21:46] Tier II 14U 1A bracket reveal.

[00:23:22] Interview with Cleveland Lady Barons coach Mindy French.

[00:27:49] Tier II 16U 2A bracket reveal.

[00:28:38] Interview with Steel City Selects coach Jim Black.

[00:33:21] Discussion about the competitiveness and depth of Massachusetts tier-two programs.

[00:35:05] Tier II 16U 1A bracket reveal.

[00:35:35] Interview with Utah Lady Grizzlies coach Rob Johnson.

[00:39:46] Discussion about the growth of girls hockey in Utah and other emerging markets.

[00:42:07] Tier II 19U 2A bracket announcement.

[00:44:01] Conversation about hockey development in Alaska and the challenges faced by remote programs.

[00:45:44] Tier II 19U 1A final bracket reveal.

[00:48:06] Discussion about the narrowing competitive gap across girls hockey programs nationwide.

[00:50:50] Explanation of the USA Hockey at-large selection process.

[00:54:14] Closing remarks and congratulations to all teams qualifying for nationals.

Links:

USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠

Pat Kelleher - https://www.usahockey.com/patkelleher

Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠

Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠

Growing the Game: Pat Kelleher on USA Hockey’s Vision for the Future Mar 12, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of the USA Hockey Next Generation Podcast, Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry sit down with Pat Kelleher, Executive Director of USA Hockey. Pat reflects on the organization’s recent international success, including Team USA’s Olympic achievements, and explains the collaboration and preparation that goes into building championship programs. The conversation also examines the continued growth of hockey across the United States, the importance of development pathways for young players, and how initiatives like Learn to Play and Try Hockey for Free help expand access to the game. Pat shares his perspective on maintaining momentum at both the grassroots and international levels while ensuring the sport continues to grow for the next generation of players.

Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] Drew Shore and Lyndsey Fry open the episode and discuss recent coaching experiences and youth hockey moments.

[00:02:55] Introduction of guest Pat Kelleher, Executive Director of USA Hockey.

[00:04:51] Pat Kelleher joins the show and reflects on recent success for USA Hockey on the international stage.

[00:05:31] Discussion about the preparation, collaboration, and culture required to achieve Olympic success.

[00:08:11] Growth of the game in the United States and how stronger development pathways have increased competition for national team spots.

[00:10:26] The role of USA Hockey’s programs in developing elite athletes and strengthening the talent pool.

[00:13:12] Insights into the work happening behind the scenes to support Team USA’s international performance.

[00:15:59] How USA Hockey supports adaptive and sled hockey programs and the commitment of those athletes.

[00:18:33] The dedication and culture within Team USA programs that contribute to continued international success.

[00:22:42] Efforts to grow participation in hockey across the country and expand opportunities for young players.

[00:25:37] Discussion about USA Hockey’s grassroots initiatives and the infrastructure supporting youth development.

[00:28:44] Addressing barriers to entry and making the sport more accessible through programs like Learn to Play and Try Hockey for Free.

[00:31:20] The importance of creating welcoming environments so young players fall in love with the game early.

[00:34:25] Long-term strategy for sustaining success at both the grassroots and international levels.

[00:36:12] Building momentum after major international wins and continuing to develop future Team USA talent.

[00:42:26] Rapid-fire questions and reflections on leadership, teamwork, and the future of the sport.

[00:44:20] Closing thoughts from Pat Kelleher and appreciation for the people who contribute to the growth of hockey in the United States.

Links:

USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠

Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠

Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

USA Hockey: Next Generation

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected