The High Performance Hockey Podcast

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Textbook skating mechanics and skating efficiency. The difference between coaching young athletes versus elite level professionals. Biomechanics and anatomical landmarks for idealized, efficient skating. The most common equipment and modifications. Resources + Links: Follow Luke on Instagram | @chilcottskating Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: What are the most common skating habits high performance hockey players share? Joining the podcast today is Luke Chilcott, the Dallas Stars skating coach. Luke is in his 7th season working as a skating coach in the NHL, helping develop a deeper knowledge of edgework and efficiency through correct technique, and assisting players in analyzing beneficial equipment as it relates to on ice performance. Our conversation will delve into Luke’s skating philosophy he has fostered working with both younger players and professional level athletes. We’ll explore optimized skating efficiency, biomechanics and anatomical landmarks, common skating habits and modifications, and more. As we go, Luke shares his framework for setting up his skaters for success, including beneficial equipment, on ice & off ice interventions, and return to play. Tune in to discover all that goes into efficient skating from the ground up! 00:00 Let’s talk skating, biomechanics, equipment and more with Dallas Stars skating coach, Luke Chilcott! 01:30 What was your background going from competitive skater to trainer? 04:35 Role and responsibilities as the Dallas Stars skating coach. 07:35 What is your skating philosophy? 10:20 Social media bells & whistles versus in game/on ice patterns. 13:00 Defining textbook skating efficiency + anatomical landmarks to focus on. 17:40 What are common skating habits and mistakes you’ve noticed? 21:30 The pros and cons of block practice for youth athletes. 24:20 Check out the Gain, Go, Grow Manual for intermediate to advanced athletes! 25:10 What is the ideal build for skating, from a biomechanical standpoint? 29:50 How to tangibly make a difference in an athlete’s stride at the elite level. 34:10 Which on ice and off ice interventions would you implement for ankle mobility? 38:30 Equipment commonalities + modifications between pro level players. 44:35 What is the relation between hollows and return to play? 50:00 Where does video fit into your coaching philosophy? 54:05 Favorable prerequisites for warming up a pro level skater. 58:50 What’s coming up next for you?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: An in-depth exploration of the five phases of the return to sport clearance continuum. How to become a Swiss Army knife in the professional sports world. The current state of comprehensive athlete care + return to play. Resources + Links: Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: How can you approach the return to sport clearance like a pro? Joining us today is Dr. Pete Draovitch, Athletic Performance Specialist and Associate Athletic Trainer of the Jacksonville Jaguars. His current role assists the medical staff and strength & conditioning staff to work closely with injured players in the rehabilitation programs. With his diverse background in professional sports, including golf, ice hockey, and football, Dr. Pete will teach us how to become a Swiss Army knife within the high performance sphere. We’ll also be deep diving into a 2022 article of his in order to break down the five phases of the return to sport clearance continuum, including debunking misconceptions and providing useful modalities to implement for return to play. Join us for a thorough and interesting conversation on the current state of comprehensive athlete care! 01:40 What was your background with the Rangers and what are your current duties in the NFL? 05:20 Becoming the Swiss Army knife of professional sports. 09:20 What first principles do you go by? 14:40 What tools + modalities do you utilize during the repair phase? 17:50 The High Performance Hockey Masterclass ad. 18:40 What goes into the rehab + recovery phase? 23:45 Why is the reconditioning phase the most misunderstood? 29:05 How to get baseline tests of the season + the most important metric for return to play. 33:20 Return to performance versus return to play. 37:45 Where is the pendulum swinging regarding comprehensive athlete care? 41:20 Expert advice for young practitioners. 42:55 How do you want to be remembered?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Measurement error and building conceptual models in applied settings. How to collect, analyze, and compute better information from both a sports science and a strength & conditioning perspective. The issue with reliability + validity in tests. The fundamentals of assessing and calculating errors. Resources + Links: Measurement in Medicine by Henrica C. W. W. de Vet Probably Overthinking It by Allen B. Downey Analyzing Baseball Data with R by Jim Albert and Benjamin S. Baumer Calling Bullshit by Carl T. Bergstrom and Jevin D. West Against the Gods by Peter L. Bernstein The Lady Tasting Tea by David Salsburg Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: Is it possible to have data that is both reliable and valid? Today, we have an informative podcast all about measurement with special guests, Dr. Patrick Ward and Dr. Scot Morrison. Dr. Patrick Ward is the Director of Research and Analysis at the Seattle Seahawks and a Statistics Professor at Lehman College, with a PhD in Sport and Exercise Science. Dr. Scot Morrison is currently working as a Senior Sports Scientist in MLB and boasts a diverse career in sports medicine. Our conversation focuses on measurement, error, and conceptual models in an applied real world setting. We’ll hear their expert answers to several important questions from a sports science lens: What are the logical fallacies regarding reliability & validity in tests? How can we successfully collect & analyze better information? What are the basic fundamentals we need to know? Join us for an incredible educational talk centered around measurement in high performance sports! 0:00:00 Introducing Dr. Patrick Ward and Dr. Scot Morrison, here to discuss everything related to measurement! 0:03:40 Unpacking bad data, measurement errors, and skewed models. 0:08:35 What kind of validity should we be looking for in data? 0:14:45 How to measure external load on a case by case basis. 0:18:15 The issue of measurement reliability. 0:24:25 How can we successfully compute credible probability through error? 0:28:45 Assessing metric errors from a strength & conditioning perspective. 0:34:00 Steps for operationalizing and applying data models throughout a season. 0:39:25 What are the fundamentals of calculating error & noise? 0:42:10 The High Performance Hockey Masterclass ad. 0:43:30 Identifying the difference between testing errors. 0:47:05 Which measurements have you thrown out due to noise? 0:53:00 The importance of conceptual framework in decision making. 1:00:55 What can we learn from conceptual framework? 1:03:30 How do you build models from a sports science lens? 1:08:10 Navigating the truth & lies of models in applied settings. 1:13:40 Knowing what you know now, what advice & resources would you give aspiring performance coaches?

In this episode I have an incredible conversation with Sunaya Sapurji about youth hockey development models around the world. Sunaya is a senior editor at The Athletic who has covered hockey for many years and written insightful pieces comparing different countries' approaches. We discussed the similarities and differences between programs in North America and Europe. Some of the main takeaways from our discussion included the challenges of cost and participation rates, as well as the importance of coaching education to ensure development frameworks are properly implemented. 01:15 Hockey development models in the US and Canada. 08:45 Hockey development and retention strategies for youth growing up in the sport. 11:15 What challenges is the sport of ice hockey facing with cost across the globe? 18:30 Hockey development in Scandinavia. 26:45 What are the differences between the club model in places like Denmark vs the free market you see in the US? 32:30 Hockey coaching, player development, and retention today. Resources + Links: Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players

In This Episode, You Will Learn: The importance of generalist knowledge in sports medicine. Periodization of treatment for optimal athlete performance. How Dr. Jeff Cubos creates a collaborative high performance culture. Resources + Links: Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Jeff Cubos. Dr. Cubos is a consulting chiropractor for the Edmonton Oilers and has over 20 years of experience working with athletes at all levels. We had a great discussion about the importance of being a generalist in sports medicine and understanding principles from different fields. Jeff also shared insights into his daily role with the Oilers, from morning meetings to game day preparations. Tune in to hear us cover the emphasis on regular assessments for asymptomatic players to ensure optimal performance and prevent potential issues down the road. 01:30 Curiosity, communication, and interdisciplinary connections. 04:15 What is your treatment philosophy and information you consider for assessments in sports medicine? 13:00 Athlete care and focusing on player driven decision making. 19:15 Periodization and communication in sports performance. 25:30 How do you approach hockey player development and high performance culture? 35:00 Athlete monitoring and injury management in hockey. 40:45 Are there any objective measures from the medical staff that you look at and measure? 48:00 Teaching curiosity and self-directed learning.

In This Episode, You Will Learn: How to build trust with players through open communication Managing training loads to prevent overtraining during season Using objective metrics and testing for return to play decisions Resources + Links: Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: I'm here with Mike Donohue, the head strength coach of the Dallas Stars, and we had a great discussion about building a performance program at the NHL level. Mike shared his experiences in the AHL and how that prepared him for the challenges of the NHL. We talked about the importance of building trust with players, monitoring training loads, and using objective data to guide return to play. It was fascinating to hear Mike's perspective on balancing theory with practical application in professional sports. Whether you're a coach or player, I think you'll find a lot of valuable insights on building an effective long-term development program. 01:30 Building a strength conditioning program for a professional hockey team. 05:45 Building trust and providing valuable insights as a strength and conditioning coach. 09:15 Impact of first gig in American Hockey League. 13:15 Coaching in the NHL and AHL. 19:45 Managing stress and recovery in professional ice hockey players. 23:15 Training loads and recovery for professional hockey players. 27:00 Athlete autonomy in training programs. 32:15 Using data and metrics in sports training. 37:00 Using data to guide athlete development in hockey. 43:45 Hockey player care and the gap between theory and practice.

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Mental toughness is task specific and developed through self-awareness Leadership starts from the top but is a bottom-up process of trust and humility The cost of coaching is making tough decisions while staying true to your values Resources + Links: Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: Today we're joined by two world renowned athletes. Assistant Coach University of Nebraska men's freestyle wrestling team, Terrell dialogue nev, and the head coach of the Pitt Panthers wrestling team. Keith Gavin. We dive into many important topics in wrestling like mental toughness, leadership, and building a culture of trust. Both of these guys are legends in the sport and they gave such great insights from their experiences as world-class athletes and now as coaches. Tune in to hear ways they develop the whole athlete and help their wrestlers become the best versions of themselves. 02:30 Mental toughness in wrestling, common misconceptions, and skill development. 08:15 Athlete development and positivity in wrestling. 12:15 Mental toughness in sports with a Hall of Fame coach and wrestler. 23:00 How do you teach mental preparation for athletes? 29:30 Coaching wrestling, leadership, and ego. 35:45 Youth sports development and coaching strategies. 41:15 Leadership costs in sports, including ego and credit. 46:15 How do you nurture greatness and create legendary athletes?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Highlights, lessons, and reflections on top episodes of 2023. Resources + Links: Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: I’ve been honored to have some incredible conversations on the podcast in 2023. For this episode, I’m highlighting some of the most impactful guests and lessons from the past year. Discussing topics ranging from long term athletic development to data analytics in sports, I really enjoyed gaining different perspectives on how to improve the game of hockey. Speaking with experts like Jim Kielbaso, Fergus Connolly, and Dr. Mal McHugh challenged my thinking and will help me better serve the hockey community. I'm also grateful for the chance to sit down with Stanley Cup champions like John Stevens to learn about the intangibles that help teams succeed at the highest level. Overall, interviewing so many great minds in the sport has been an invaluable learning experience, and I look forward to continuing these important discussions in the new year. 02:15 Long-term athletic development in hockey. 06:30 Balancing skill development and fun in youth hockey. 12:00 Coaching, mentorship, and prediction in hockey. 18:00 Hockey training and winning intangibles with a 3-time Stanley Cup champ. 22:15 Hockey skills development and testing methods. 28:00 Measuring performance and understanding data. 33:45 Hockey analytics and performance with industry experts.

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Reframing LTAD from a coach’s perspective. The problems with the LTAD model. Possible solutions & fixes for future athletic development. Resources + Links: Check out Jim’s article - Rethinking Long Term Athlete Development Ultimate Speed & Agility by Jim Kielbaso Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: What happens when we coach outside of models? Today’s featured guest is Jim Kielbaso, the President and CEO of the International Youth Conditioning Association! Jim is the owner of one of the most successful sports performance training centers in the country, Impact Sports Performance, and has trained thousands of athletes during his career. We’ll have a fantastic conversation as we break down the long term athletic development model from the lens of a coach in an applied setting. Jim provides a fresh take on LTAD and brings up the problems that come with it. In a perfect world, how could we fix these issues? We’ll talk about everything from technical skills, player retention, training windows, and more to learn what coaches can do in our imperfect world to find possible solutions for the future of athletic development. If you’re a coach or a parent of young athletes, this is one discussion you don’t want to ignore. Join us in rethinking how we approach LTAD and its impact on high performance sports! 02:30 What is your article about and why did you write it? 04:40 What are the three stages of the model? 09:20 Defining ‘framework’ versus ‘model’. 11:45 From a coach’s perspective, what are the big problems with the model? 14:05 The underlying pressure of LTAD on coaches & parents. 19:35 What are your thoughts on assumptions around training windows? 25:50 Why do we need more coaches, not models? 30:40 The significance of training technical skills. 34:50 How do people make up a sport? 39:10 Fixing the model through education & coaching. 41:50 How has the off season changed for young athletes? 45:40 Do we abandon the model?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Where the education process for young performance coaches is right now. Theory versus application touch points. Jumping training from a physiological perspective. Coaching adaptation in different training ages. Resources + Links: Connect with Carmen on Instagram | @coachbott Learn more at https://www.coachbott.com/ Check out Coach Carmen’s ACL Rehab Course: https://www.coachbott.com/acl-rehab-course Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: If you think you understand performance, think again! I’m excited to share my conversation with Professor of Kinesiology at Simon Fraser University, Carmen Bott. Carmen holds a Masters in Exercise Science and is a certified strength & conditioning specialist and a practicing kinesiologist. As a physical performance coach with 20+ years of experience, she has guided athletes at varying physical levels and training ages towards adaptation and rehabilitation. Our discussion today will cover everything from teaching critical thinking skills, collaboration between professionals, and deconstructing the performance model. We’ll start with taking a lens to the education process for young performance coaches before moving onto theory versus application, physiology & jump training, the coaching element of practice and beyond. We’ll also learn more about the new resources Carmen has created, including her ebook, Understanding Performance and Adaptation, as well her ACL rehab course and its inner modules. Young coaches, veteran coaches, athletes, and other performance professionals will all be able to gain important takeaways from this education & coaching expert! 0:00:00 Here to break down physiology, performance, and adaptation is Coach Carmen Bott, Professor of Kinesiology and a physical performance coach with over 20 years of experience! 0:02:40 What do you teach in your classes? 0:05:25 Where is the education process for young performance coaches? 0:10:40 Should critical thinking be taught in schools? 0:15:45 Why do more case studies need to be shared among professionals? 0:22:05 The pros of being skeptical. 0:25:25 Should we start with adaptation before exercise? 0:27:40 Jump training from a physiology standpoint. 0:31:00 How is peripheral adaptation evolving in athletes? 0:33:50 Chasing adaptation in different age groups. 0:38:55 How do you approach drills for different training ages? 0:43:10 Volume control in training. 0:46:00 Why did you create your ACL course and what does it encompass? 0:52:45 Breaking down the course modules. 0:59:20 Where does technology fit into your return to play end stage? 1:04:40 What questions does technology leave us with? 1:06:45 What do we gain when we look at the bigger picture? 1:08:55 Is it possible to profile performance? 1:13:25 The assumptions of the performance model.

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Coaching today’s players: Technology, culture, and communication. The ingredients of a successful professional team. The ultimate game day prep in the American Hockey League. Advice for aspiring coaches, hockey parents, and young players. Resources + Links: Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: What are the qualities of a championship team? In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with a true trailblazer in his zone of genius, Trent Vogelhuber. Trent is a man of many firsts, being the first Columbus native to play Division I college hockey at Miami of Ohio, the first Columbus native to be drafted in the NHL, and the first Columbus native to coach professional hockey. With a professional playing career of 267 games in the American Hockey League, Trent now serves as the Head Coach for the Cleveland Monsters. We’ll have an insightful discussion looking back at his playing career, his early mentors, and the transition from player to coach. Then, we move onto the landscape of coaching today and everything you need to know about communication and culture in a professional setting. Lastly, we’ll get to hear Trent’s advice for new coaches, hockey parents, and young athletes from a head coach’s perspective. From game day prep to the use of technology in strength & conditioning, Trent will share his thoughts on successful sports performance. Whether you’re an aspiring coach or a young player, you’ll be able to take away the important tangibles to bloom where you’re planted right now! 00:00 Meet the man of many firsts, Trent Vogelhuber, the current Head Coach of the Cleveland Monsters! 02:20 What does being an Ohio native mean to you? 04:45 What led you into coaching in the AHL? 07:30 How was the transition from player to coach? 09:05 Who were your mentors and what qualities did you admire in them? 13:15 The qualities of a championship team. 16:55 Where does culture come from? 18:55 How has the game changed and how has this affected the coaching side? 22:35 How do you deliver difficult messages to your players? 26:00 Your touch point AHL game day prep. 29:40 Does your structure change based on your opponent? 31:15 What is the significance of strength & conditioning on the ice? 34:40 What are the most important qualities you look for in a strength coach? 38:15 Where does technology fit in the AHL level? 40:55 How do you currently use your strength & conditioning coach? 44:15 Advice for aspiring coaches. 46:10 What is your advice for hockey parents and young players? 50:30 How do you want to be remembered?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Coaching then versus now: Old school coaching techniques and lost art forms. What young coaches need to succeed long term. Where the future of coaching is heading. Resources + Links: Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: What are the pros and cons of modern day coaching? We’re continuing onto Part 2 of our in depth discussion with legends in the field, Buddy Morris, Michael Boyle, Dan Pfaff, and Fergus Connolly! In this part, we’ll be taking a closer look at the pendulum swing of modern day coaching for high performance sports. From the dying arts of old school coaching techniques to the cons coming from the recent rise in technology, our four guests weigh in on what it means to be a coach then versus now. They’ll share seasoned lessons they’ve experienced that brought them to where they are today, including stories of who they learned from and how they got into the room. Our conversation will also touch on the importance of mentorship, advice for career success, how to prepare your skill set for the future, and even more. If you’re a young coach, don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the original godfathers of sports performance! 01:00 What is one assumption you have about training that greater access to data would allow you to test? 04:50 Exploring the recent rise of overreliance on data technology. 11:10 What were the advantages of not having technology or social media? 17:40 The lost art of visitation. 23:00 What do we gain when we watch and learn from other coaches? 27:35 What is the most common question younger coaches ask you, and what do you wish they would ask instead? 34:15 How can young coaches prepare themselves for the future? 40:00 What is your advice for young coaches right now? 44:10 How do you want to be remembered after your coaching days?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: How these legends came to be. The life lessons and mistakes from veterans in the field. An examination of the personal and professional side of sports performance. Resources + Links: Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: What do you get when you bring four legendary sports performance professionals together? An equally legendary podcast! This week, we’re bringing you an incredible two part series where we sit down with my dearest mentors, the godfathers of sports performance, Michael Boyle, Dan Pfaff, Buddy Morris, and Fergus Connolly. As experts and veterans in their individual fields, they each bring insightful and valuable knowledge & experiences to today’s episode as we break down who they are and what got them here. Who did they learn the most from? How did they get through the doubt? What did the darkest moments of their careers look like? We’ll talk about the lessons and mistakes from their personal and professional lives that shaped them into who they are now and where they want to go from here. Drop in for an extensive deep dive into life, performance, and everything in between! 00:00 Join the table with living legends Michael Boyle, Dan Pfaff, Buddy Morris, and Fergus Connolly to uncover the life lessons behind sports performance! 05:00 How did you end up where you are now? 10:20 Who were the mentors that affected you the most and what lessons from them resonated with you? 19:15 What is the one word you can’t stand to hear? 21:10 Which athlete taught you the most? 26:05 What was one of the biggest mistakes you made, personally or professionally? 34:50 When did you doubt yourself the most? 43:40 Are we relying on technology too much?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Challenges of cash-based physical therapy businesses. Measuring healing and function in end-stage rehab. Assessing progress in physical therapy after surgery. Resources + Links: Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: Today we're joined by the founders of Resilient Performance Systems, Dr. Doug Kechijian, Dr. Trevor Rappa and Dr. Greg Spats. Resilient Performance Systems seeks to systematically explore the continuum between acute rehab and athletic performance. Their clientele include athletes and operators from MLB, the NBA, the NFL, professional mixed martial artists, X Games, and Olympians, just to name a few. RPS also advises organizations about medical and performance staffing, program development, and injury risk mitigation strategies. It's a fantastic episode. Welcome to the podcast! 05:46 - Everyone’s backgrounds in physical therapy and strength conditioning. 09:12 - State of the healthcare industry and professional certifications. 11:44 - Certification requirements in healthcare. 14:47 - Challenges of cash-based physical therapy businesses. 21:30 - Sports injury rehab and prevention strategies. 24:47 - Passing the baton in sports rehabilitation. 28:39 - Athlete rehabilitation and communication between providers. 33:16 - Education gaps in physical therapy and strength conditioning. 36:22 - Sports rehabilitation and training strategies. 39:40 - Measuring healing and function in end-stage rehab. 45:58 - Injury rehabilitation and sports preparation. 49:21 - Rehabilitating a college football player post-injury. 53:36 - Rehabilitation strategies for FAI surgery. 56:48 - Assessing progress in physical therapy after surgery. 1:00:45 - Athlete assessment and training progression.

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Analyzing hockey player data for performance and recovery insights The gaps in sports science and its application today. Resources + Links: Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: Today we're joined by Dr. Mal McHugh and Reg Grant! Mal is the Director of Research at the Nicholas Institute of Sports Medicine and Athletic Trauma at Lenox Hill Hospital, which is part of the Northwell Health System. Mal is also the Sports Performance Consultant for the National Hockey League. Reg is the Director of Human Performance at Holy Name Medical Center in Teaneck, New Jersey, a former President of the Strength and Conditioning Association of Professional Hockey, and for 17 years served as the Head Strength Conditioning Coach of the New York Rangers, which specializes in leading interdisciplinary health, wellness and athletic performance teams. In this episode, we talk about decades of testing from the Batman and Robin of testing and high performance hockey, Reg on the floor collecting the data and Mal analyzing the data behind the scenes. We also speak about external load and ice hockey, and a research article yet to be published by Mal titled ‘Accelerometer based measurement of physiological and physical intensity in male ice hockey players: An algorithm for quantifying accelerometry data and ice hockey, identifying a reliable g-force profile’. Interesting article, interesting conversation, interesting talk.​​ 00:00:00 Welcome back to the show, Dr. Mal McHugh and Reg Grant! 00:02:10 How, where, and with whom did you evolve your data stream? 00:05:10 How did you two start working together? 00:07:50 What were the biggest mistakes you learned from? 00:11:40 What were your aha moments? 00:14:05 Giving context to information to get results. 00:17:45 What are the limitations of measurements? 00:21:00 How did your technology evolve? 00:27:40 What were the biggest insights you made? 00:32:25 What targeted interventions did your data allow you to make? 00:35:00 How Mal analyzes athlete data, athletic performance, and injury risk. 00:38:50 Using accelerometry to measure G-force in ice hockey players. 00:41:40 Analyzing hockey player data for performance and recovery insights. 00:46:55 Is there an ideal G-force profile? 00:49:25 Why do you measure G-force? 00:55:45 What gaps are you seeing in sports science and its application? 01:02:00 Best practices for applying sports science in training environments. 01:06:30 When hiring a sports performance director how do you objectify the position?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: KPIs to measure athletic performance and different training methods. Why data can only take you so far as a strength and conditioning coach. The current landscape of strength and conditioning in college hockey. Resources + Links: Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: In this episode, we're joined by Assistant Director of Olympic strength and conditioning at the University of Wisconsin, Paul Valukas. Paul joined the Wisconsin Olympic strength and conditioning staff in 2021 as an assistant strength and conditioning coach, and currently oversees the Badgers women's hockey program. Paul joined the Badgers after most recently serving as the head strength and conditioning coach in the Ontario reign of the American Hockey League. Working with the LA Kings strength and conditioning staff, Paul created and implemented the reins off a strength and conditioning programming return to play protocols and rehab programs for injured players. We talk about a day in the life of Wisconsin Badgers strength conditioning staff specifically for ice hockey KPIs he uses for his programming, how he buckets, his programs and the current landscape of Strength and Conditioning for college hockey. 04:15 Coaching hockey with a focus on personalized training and leadership. 11:00 Training and retaining interns in sports performance. 16:15 What does the team look like for sports performance training for women's hockey at Wisconsin? 27:00 Measuring athletic performance and training methods. 31:00 Why does data analysis in sports performance only take you so far? 36:15 Categorizing athletes based on performance metrics. 40:45 Training programs for athletes based on movement and intensity. 46:30 An inside look at college hockey coaching challenges and bonuses. 54:00 The value of education in strength conditioning. 57:30 How do you want to be remembered as a coach?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: Pulling back the curtain on high performance sports. Biomechanics and movement algorithms in the field of strength & conditioning. Training adaptation, low versus high ground sports, and rethinking big patterns. Resources + Links: Connect with Pat on Instagram | @dr.patdavidson Get your copy of A Coach’s Guide to Optimizing Movement by Pat Davidson |https://rpstrength.com/coachs-guide-to-optimizing-movement Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: What does the Wizard of Oz, McDonald’s, and high performance sports have in common? Today, we’re pulling back the curtain to find out what really makes something successful with Dr. Pat Davidson. Dr. Pat is an independent trainer, consultant, author, and lecturer in NYC who employs critical thinking skills and rationale in all his systems. In this podcast, we’ll be discussing the reality of training programs to see what makes them tick and the best ways to utilize them. We also explore biomechanics and movement algorithms in the field of strength & conditioning, and Pat’s operational approach to training three different classifications. This episode will have you rethinking the way you view training and high performance athletes going forward. Compete at the highest level by seeing through the smoke and mirrors! 0:00:00 Step into the world of biomechanics and algorithms alongside Dr. Pat Davidson! 0:01:20 Where did your critical thinking come from and why is it important to have? 0:07:10 The Wizard of Oz post. 0:09:35 What compelled you to write it? 0:16:45 Are we pulling back the curtain? 0:21:45 What does it take to be successful? 0:25:25 Do we overcomplicate things? 0:29:45 How can we make better selections? 0:35:45 Get your copy of the Gain, Go, Grow manual. 0:36:35 Where do you start with grounding? 0:40:30 What matters most in low ground sports? 0:43:05 Training adaptations. 0:47:10 Who have been your mentors in the field of biomechanics? 0:51:15 What is your model for rethinking big patterns? 0:54:10 What are your three classifications? 0:57:15 What is your operational approach to training? 1:01:55 Do you utilize breakwork? 1:05:25 Where can people find your work? 1:07:15 How did your mass program come about? 1:15:00 How do you want to be remembered?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: The tangible intangibles of winning teams. Team culture: Where it comes from and how to build it. Player insights and communication from a new generation of athletes. Advice for young athletes and long term athletic development. Resources + Links: Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: What does it take to coach a winning team? In this episode, we’re uncovering the tangible intangibles of winning teams with the assistant coach for the Vegas Golden Knights, John Stevens. John is a 3 time Stanley Cup champion, once recently with the Vegas Golden Knights from 2022-2023 and twice with the LA Kings in 2012 and 2014. He is entering this 26th season of professional coaching and his 18th season in the NHL. Today, we’ll be picking his brain to discuss his secret to success over the years. What was it like winning a Stanley Cup not once, but thrice? Who were his mentors and how does he still continue to learn today? What is his advice for setting up young players for long term athletic development? From building culture to understanding player perspectives, our conversation will dive into the qualities that make up a winning team of high performers. Join us in the coaching corner to get a seasoned perspective on the game of hockey! 00:00:00 Introducing the assistant coach for the Vegas Golden Knights, John Stevens! 00:02:17 How does it feel to win a Stanley Cup? 00:05:57 How did you spend your day with the Cup? 00:08:27 What are the tangible intangibles of winning teams? 00:11:52 Who were your mentors as a young coach? 00:16:07 How do you keep learning as a coach? 00:19:17 What is your staple game checklist? 00:23:42 High Performance Hockey Masterclass ad break. 00:25:02 How are players bringing different perspectives to the conversation? 00:28:22 Where does culture come from? 00:31:42 How has communication changed? 00:37:32 The challenge of filtering out the noise. 00:42:57 What are the qualities of a good sports performance practitioner? 00:47:02 Informed versus persuasion. 00:51:02 What is your advice for young athletes? 00:55:47 What do you work on with your sons during the summers? 01:02:17 What can you learn from doing the work? 01:04:47 How do you want to be remembered?

In This Episode, You Will Learn: The utility of Catapult technology within various environments and demographics. Everything you need to know about external player load. Anchors points and heuristics for return to play clearance. The data behind decision making processes during a regular season. Resources + Links: Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: Let’s break down all things external load! Today, we’re joined by Patrick Love, Adam Douglas, Stephane Gervais, and Kevin Ricks for a roundtable to discuss the use of Catapult technology. Our conversation will dive into the utility Catapult provides for the various environments in which they work. We’ll explore how it relates to different demographics, data tracking for key decision making, anchor points for return to play clearance, and even more. As we go, we’ll uncover how this technology works and its true significance to team sports around the globe. If you’ve ever questioned how Catapult technology performs in the realm of hockey, look no further than this episode for your answers. Drop into the roundtable for an insightful look into the technology that drives the high performance sphere to new levels! Meet the Guests: Patrick Love is an Applied Sports Scientist at Catapult Sports. He currently supports 20 NHL, 16 AHL, and 16 NCAA Ice Hockey teams that use Catapult's wearable technology. Prior to working at Catapult, the Plano, Texas, native was the S&C Coach OKC Barons (’14-’15), Bakersfield Condors (’15-’19), and Assistant S&C Coach with the Edmonton Oilers (‘19-‘21). Adam Douglas is the Sports Science and Performance Director for the Montreal Canadiens. Prior to joining the Canadiens, Adam Douglas served as the Manager, Sports Performance for Hockey Canada for over 10 years, working with both the Men’s and Women’s High Performance Teams. Alongside his work with Hockey Canada, Douglas also served as an Applied Sport Scientist with the Catapult Sports. He has a PhD from York University where he investigated the applied use of wearable technology in elite female ice hockey. Stephane Gervais is the Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Montreal Canadiens’ AHL farm team the Laval Rocket. Originally from Windsor, ON, he played 4 years of Varsity hockey at the University of British Columbia, before embarking on his pro hockey career in Europe, playing 10 professional seasons while simultaneously serving as the Pro/U20 team’s S&C coach before retiring from playing in 2017 and moving into that role full time. Later working with the French Ice Hockey Federation as the Strength and Conditioning Coordinator and Team France U20 National team. Kevin Ricks is an Associate Athletic Trainer at Notre Dame, working with the Irish Hockey team and Men’s Tennis team while assisting with football. Ricks also has worked with the Irish men’s and women’s fencing team, men’s and women’s track and field, women’s swimming and diving, women’s soccer and women’s rowing teams in his time at Notre Dame. Ricks first came to Notre Dame in 2001. 0:00:00 Join the Catapult roundtable alongside featured guests Patrick Love, Adam Douglas, Stephane Gervais, and Kevin Ricks to learn all things external load! 0:01:30 What does Catapult technology do? 0:03:20 What does the GPS technology measure and what is its significance in team sports? 0:08:05 Player load volume intensity measurements. 0:11:45 What...

In This Episode, You Will Learn: The aha moments of testing hip asymmetry in athletes. The drawbacks of adductor squeeze testing. How to conduct research that makes a difference. Resources + Links: Learn more about Dr. McHugh’s research | https://nismat.org/about/nismat-team/research-team/malachy-mchugh-phd/ Check out Anthony’s Masterclass - The High Performance Hockey Masterclass Follow Anthony on Instagram | @anthonydonskov Follow Anthony on Twitter | Anthony Donskov, PhD Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov Follow HPH Podcast on Instagram | @hph_podcast Follow HPH Podcast on Twitter | @TheHPH_Podcast Learn more on our Website | https://www.donskovsc.com/ Check out Anthony’s Books Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players Show Notes: What are the unintentional drawbacks of the tests we run? Today, we’ll have an educational conversion all about research, statistics, and conducting tests for high performance athletes with our special guest, Dr. Mal McHugh! Dr. McHugh received his PhD in exercise physiology in 1999 from the University of Wales, Bangor before he began his work as Director of Research at the Nicholas Institute of Sports & Medicine and Athletic Trauma. In his decades long experience, he has led a multidisciplinary team including orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, exercise physiologists, nutritionists, biomechanists, medical engineers, and athletic trainers. In this episode, we’ll explore his research and approach to testing, measurements, and statistics. We will dive deep into testing hip asymmetry, most notably the drawbacks of adductor squeeze tests. As we go, I’ll share the aha moments that changed my perspective on how we view these tests and the unintended consequences of them. Whether you’re a sports scientist, coach, or athlete, you’ll be able to discover something new from the tests you run. This is how we can conduct research that makes a difference! 0:00:00 Introducing the Director of Research at the Nicholas Institute of Sports & Medicine and Athletic Trauma, Dr. Mal McHugh! 0:02:20 What does your role as Director of Research entail? 0:04:35 How do you build a research team? 0:08:05 How did you get involved with testing NHL combines? 0:10:25 Data cleaning & organization. 0:14:55 What is your approach to stats? 0:16:00 What did you discover from your study testing hip strength? 0:21:20 Unpacking the adduction to abduction ratio. 0:24:40 Explore the science & practice behind the sport of ice hockey from The High Performance Hockey Masterclass! 0:25:55 What was my aha moment when it came to adductor squeeze tests? 0:28:10 What are the drawbacks of squeeze tests? 0:31:15 How do you test abduction strength? 0:36:05 How do you use a handheld dynamometer? 0:38:35 How can beginners educate themselves on handheld testers? 0:41:30 Why do you recommend using Newton meters? 0:44:05 What is your rule of thumb for determining size of difference? 0:48:00 The difficulties of measuring human models. 0:52:00 How do you determine effect size? 0:53:30 What do you like to look for when you read research? 0:57:05 Why do you avoid Twitter? 1:00:15 What are you working on now? 1:03:15 What do you want your legacy to be remembered as?