The Pro Athlete Academy Podcast is for families navigating competitive hockey at the highest levels. Hosted by Kevin Gilroy, founder of PAA and advisor to elite sports families, we break down the key decisions that shape an athlete’s path from youth to high school and prep to college recruiting and beyond. Through stories and strategic insights, we help parents make smarter, more informed choices—on and off the ice.
Learn more at ProAthleteAcademy.com
009. Navigating the Competitive Youth Hockey Landscape: Decision-Making Framework for Families
In this episode, we dive into the essential aspects of choosing the right youth hockey program for your athlete. The discussion covers the tactics used by programs in New England to create urgency and early commitments, and outlines a decision-making framework to help families align their choices with their values, their child's skill level, and their own time and financial commitments. Tune in to learn how to navigate the competitive landscape without compromising your family's well-being and long-term development goals
5 Feb 2026
008. Learn to Skate to Peewees: Mapping the Early Hockey Journey with Clarity and Confidence
Navigating the Early Years of Youth Hockey
In this episode of the Pro Athlete Academy Podcast, host Kevin Gilroy dives into the complexities of the early years of youth hockey, covering the stages from learn to skate through Peewee.
Kevin outlines why these early years can feel stressful for families and provides a strategic approach to skill development, emphasizing foundational skills, the importance of patience, encouraging parents to focus on gradual, long-term progress instead of early acceleration.
Kevin shares insights on developmental phases and offers personal anecdotes to highlight the importance of allowing children to enjoy the game and progress at their own pace.
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00:00 Introduction to the Pro Athlete Academy Podcast
00:34 Understanding the Early Years of Hockey
01:15 Navigating Youth Hockey Challenges
05:20 Focusing on Fundamental Skills
05:52 Learn to Skate and Early Development
09:22 Transitioning to Mites
11:36 Entering the Squirts Phase
14:59 Moving into Peewees
17:49 Personal Story and Final Advice
13 Nov 2025
How to Train Young Athletes to Effectively Communicate with Coaches
In this episode, we focus on helping young athletes become effective communicators when talking to their coaches. Kevin highlights the importance of communication skills, discuss why they're not inherently natural, and suggest practical techniques to help kids practice and prepare for tough conversations.
Our approach emphasizes the significance of training and support, outlining methods parents can use to guide their children in these crucial interactions.
Tune in for valuable insights that will benefit your athlete not just on the ice but in all areas of life.
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00:00 Introduction and Topic Overview
00:29 Personal Experience with Communication Challenges
01:42 The Importance of Training in Communication
02:39 Why Kids Struggle with Communication
05:42 Strategies to Teach Effective Communication
08:00 Supporting Your Child in Communication
09:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
13 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 26 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
23
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
71
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