Vegas Rinkside Rundown

Episode W-003: Coach’s Masterclass with Justin Walters (18U HC) – Building Champions Beyond the Rink: A Strength Coach’s Perspective

Join us for an insightful episode of the Vegas Rinkside Rundown with strength and conditioning coach Justin Walters from the Monument Hockey Club. In this special Coach's Master Class, Justin shares his extensive experience across various sports, detailing his journey from high school sports to professional leagues including MLB, NBA, WNBA, and the Olympics. He discusses the critical aspects of athletic development, focusing on how tailored strength and conditioning programs can dramatically improve performance, especially in the high-stakes environment of youth hockey. Learn about the unique challenges of training for hockey, such as dealing with altitude, the importance of off-ice training, and how data-driven approaches can lead to fewer injuries and better on-ice results. Justin also imparts wisdom on fostering not just athletes, but well-rounded individuals through sports, emphasizing the values of hard work, community, and personal growth. This episode is a must-listen for parents, coaches, and young athletes looking to understand the synergy between physical training, mental resilience, and personal development in sports.
 
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Episode 28: From Practice to Playoffs: A Week in Vegas Hockey

This week's "Vegas Rinkside Rundown" hosted by Jim and Ron dives into the vibrant world of local and travel hockey. The episode begins with an overview of youth practices at City National Arena, spotlighting the 12U and 14U teams.
 
The podcast then transitions to "Across the Ice," where they review the standout performances from the Tulsa Winter Classic, with the Vegas Junior Golden Knights teams excelling in their divisions. Listeners get an update on upcoming tournaments, including the team's trip to the cold of Blaine, Minnesota, where they'll face stiff competition.
 
A detailed recap of the recent matches highlights the intense local rivalry between the Storm and VGK teams, showcasing a one-goal game at America First Center. The hosts share insights from their Denver trip, discussing games against the Rampage and Thunderbirds, alongside updates on injuries like Ethan's unfortunate wrist break.
 
UNLV's impressive twelve-game winning streak in college hockey gets its moment, with upcoming challenges against top Division I teams. The episode also covers the Faith Lutheran teams' dominance in the Anaheim Ducks High School League in California.
 
Lastly, the hosts introduce exclusive interviews with coaches Justin Walters of the Monument Hockey Club and Tim Fassette of the Ice Warriors, offering deep dives into coaching philosophies and player development. This episode encapsulates the passion, challenges, and community spirit of Vegas hockey.
 
For more insights, stories, or to share your hockey experiences, reach out to us at info@vegasrinkside.com or visit our website at www.vegasrinkside.com.

Episode 27: Rinkside Reflections: A Thanksgiving Hockey Story

Welcome to the "Vegas Rinkside Rundown" podcast, where hosts Jim and Ron bring you the latest in youth and college hockey in Las Vegas. In this episode, we dive into the thrilling world of local hockey with a mix of Thanksgiving reflections, tournament recaps, and exciting previews of upcoming games.
 
We start with personal anecdotes, sharing how both hosts spent their Thanksgiving, highlighting the joy of family time and the excitement of the hockey season. The episode then transitions into the heart of the action, detailing the performances of various local teams at tournaments like the Mile High Invitational and Silver Sticks. The 12U, 14U, and 19U girls teams from the Vegas Junior Golden Knights showed their prowess, with some teams reaching the finals but facing stiff competition from teams like the Arapahoe Lady Warriors.
 
The Las Vegas Ice Warriors also made headlines by going undefeated at the Arizona Turkey Shootout, capturing the spirit of victory for the 14U team. The episode also celebrates the Storm 12U boys team's streak, having won all five tournaments they've entered this year.
 
Looking ahead, we preview the VGK 15U AAA team's trip to Denver, where they'll face off against formidable opponents like the Rampage and Thunderbirds. We also touch on UNLV's upcoming hockey games and the community's involvement through listener questions for upcoming coach interviews.
 
Join us by visiting our website at www.vegasrinkside.com for more updates, or interact with us directly via email at info@vegasrinkside.com (mailto:info@vegasrinkside.com). Follow us on X, Instagram, or join our community on our dedicated Facebook group for all things Vegas hockey.
 
Tune in for your weekly dose of hockey stories, insights, and celebrations, only on "Vegas Rinkside Rundown"!

Episode 26: Gobble Up the Ice: A Thanksgiving Hockey Feast

Vegas Rinkside Rundown Thanksgiving Special Summary
In this Thanksgiving episode, hosts Jim and Ron delve into the vibrant hockey culture of Las Vegas. They discuss UNLV's 3-0 hockey weekend, highlighting their collegiate success. The Henderson Force's competitive series against the Lake Tahoe Lakers is analyzed, showcasing the intensity of hockey.
We feature young players Oakley and Eddie, who share their journey into hockey, emphasizing the sport's growth at the grassroots level. Coach Wally LaCroix joins to discuss recent games, including a notable incident with a goalie's helmet, offering insights into player and referee dynamics.
The show also explores the development of girls' hockey with coaches Ryan Madison and Matt Coles, who share their experiences and the opportunities for female players. Upcoming tournaments like Silver Stick and NGHL are previewed, focusing on team preparation and development.
The episode concludes with reflections on coaching strategies, the importance of practice, and how Thanksgiving brings the hockey community together.
 
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Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Episode 25: Rink Roundup: The Fall Classic Frenzy in Vegas and Beyond!

Welcome to the Vegas Rinkside Rundown, where hockey takes center ice in the desert city! Each episode, your hosts Jim and Ron dive deep into the heart of Vegas hockey culture, bringing you the latest scores, player performances, and behind-the-scenes insights that every hockey enthusiast craves.
 
In this episode, we lace up our skates and hit the ice running with a detailed recap of the thrilling My Weekend Hockey Fall Classic. We've got exclusive scores, unexpected victories, and highlight moments that had the crowds roaring. From the fierce battles of Bishop Gorman's D1 team clinching yet another banner to the spirited play of the Vegas Junior Golden Knights, you'll hear firsthand about the local heroes on ice.
 
We're not just about the games; we delve into the community's heart, discussing critical topics like whether to stay local or venture out for hockey development. Hear about the experiences of players who've moved away, and what local coaching legends like Matt Johnson have to say about nurturing talent right here in Vegas.
 
Our episode also features a special segment, "Across the Ice," where we tour through the latest scores and standout moments from various teams across different levels, celebrating not just the victories but the spirit of hockey that thrives in Las Vegas.
 
Whether you're a parent, a coach, a player, or just a fan of the game, "Vegas Rinkside Rundown" connects you to the pulse of Vegas hockey. We're here to answer your questions, share your stories, and keep you updated with the vibrant hockey scene.
 
Missed a game? Want to know more about a player's journey? Or perhaps you have suggestions for our next guest or topic? Reach out to us. Your voice matters in our rinkside community.
 
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Don't miss out on the action, the stories, and the passion for hockey in Vegas. Subscribe, listen, and join the conversation with Jim and Ron on Vegas Rinkside Rundown. Whether you're looking to get involved or just stay updated, we're your go-to source for all things hockey in the Vegas area. Let's keep the spirit of the game alive together!

Episode 24: Vegas Hockey Strategy: Goals, Gains, and Forcing the Play

In the latest episode of "Vegas Ringside Rundown," hosts Jim and Ron provide an immersive look into the dynamic world of Vegas hockey. The episode begins with a reflection on a busy weekend marked by a veterans' hockey tournament at the America First Center (AFC), where 75 teams participated, showcasing not just their skills but also their spirit. The hosts share anecdotes about the camaraderie and the festive atmosphere, particularly noting the veterans' ability to both play hard and enjoy the social aspects of the game, highlighted by their enthusiastic consumption of Pink Whitney.
The conversation shifts to local youth and amateur hockey, with updates on various teams like the Ice Warriors, who had notable wins and upcoming games, and the Henderson Force, which recently dominated against the Bakersfield Roughnecks. The Force, under the guidance of Coach Matt Johnson, is depicted as not just a competitive team but a developmental force aiming to prepare players for higher levels of hockey, whether it's college or other junior leagues.
A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to an interview with Coach Matt Johnson of the Henderson Force. Johnson discusses the team's rebranding from the Las Vegas Thunderbirds to the Henderson Force, aiming to build a junior hockey market in Henderson with a focus on community engagement. He emphasizes the importance of character in recruitment, explaining how the team culture is built around hard work, commitment, and the holistic development of players beyond just scoring goals. Johnson's insights into player roles, the importance of Hockey IQ, and the daily training regimen offer a deep dive into what it takes to nurture young hockey talent.
The hosts also touch on the broader implications of local hockey teams for community and family life, noting how these teams offer local players a chance to grow without needing to relocate, which has been a common trend in youth hockey. They discuss the excitement around Henderson Force's games, which are drawing in local families and youth teams, fostering a growing hockey culture in Vegas.
The episode wraps up with a look ahead to upcoming games for Henderson Force, particularly their match against the Lake Tahoe Lakers, and a reminder of a community golf event to support the team. Jim and Ron's discussion not only covers the sport's technical aspects but also its emotional and communal impact, making "Vegas Ringside Rundown" a comprehensive source for anyone interested in the heartbeat of Vegas hockey.
Thanks for joining us on Vegas Ringside Rundown! We love bringing the hockey community together, and your stories are what make it special. Want to be part of the show or have your team's scores featured? Drop us a line at info@vegasrinkside.com. And hey, while you're at it, don't forget to check out our website for more stats, stories, and all things hockey in Vegas at www.vegasrinkside.com. Keep your skates sharp, your eyes on the puck, and let's keep this hockey conversation going strong!"
 

Episode W-002: Coach's Masterclass with Harrison Luce: Building Better Hockey Players Through Experience

November 11th, 2024
In this episode of Vegas Rinkside Rundown's Coach's Masterclass series, we sit down with Harrison Luce, head coach of the Vegas Jr. Golden Knights 15U AAA team. Drawing from his extensive playing career and coaching experience, Coach Luce shares valuable insights into modern youth hockey development.
Episode Outline
Introduction to Harrison Luce
Family Hockey Legacy
Educational Background
Playing Career Highlights
Coaching Philosophy
Team and Player Development
Parent-Coach Relations
Referee Perspective
Future Goals in Hockey
Episode Summary
Introduction to Harrison Luce
We begin by exploring Coach Luce's impressive background, including his family's deep NHL connections through his grandfather Don and father's professional careers. His journey from player to coach provides unique insights into hockey development.
Educational Journey
Luce emphasizes the importance of education, sharing his own path to earning a master's degree in intelligence and international affairs. His message that "hockey is a privilege, not a right" underscores the importance of academic success alongside athletic achievement.
Playing Career Experience
The discussion covers Luce's diverse playing experience, from his championship season with Salisbury School to his time in various junior leagues. He shares how both successful and struggling teams shaped his coaching perspective.
Coaching Philosophy
Luce details his approach to coaching, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual player needs and communication styles. He discusses the balance between being vocal and maintaining emotional stability on the bench.
Team and Player Development
The conversation explores various aspects of player development, including:
Handling losing streaks constructively
Building team identity
Setting appropriate expectations
Finding motivation in both winning and losing situations
Parent-Coach Relations
Luce offers valuable insights on parent-coach dynamics, particularly regarding post-game communications. He shares strategies for productive dialogue between parents and players after both victories and defeats.
Referee Perspective
Drawing from his experience as a referee, Luce provides a unique perspective on officiating and game management. He discusses how his understanding of officiating influences his coaching approach and team preparation.
Future in Hockey
The episode concludes with Luce's thoughts on his future in hockey, whether in coaching or potentially following his family's footsteps into scouting or other aspects of professional hockey.
This masterclass offers valuable insights for coaches, players, and parents alike. Coach Luce's combination of playing experience, academic achievement, and coaching expertise provides a well-rounded perspective on modern youth hockey development. His emphasis on balancing athletics with academics while maintaining focus on individual player development offers important lessons for anyone involved in youth hockey.
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Episode 23: Sticks, Pucks, and Young Bucks - Hockey Insights by Jim and Ron

Jim and Ron discuss the latest in hockey, including a recent trip to Arizona, meeting young podcast listeners, and the importance of school in relation to hockey. They highlight the performance of various youth and college hockey teams, including the VgK 12U girls, Bishop Gorman D2, UNLV, and lets not forget about the Henderson Force!  They also touch on the benefits and challenges of private hockey lessons, emphasizing the importance of skating skills and stamina. The conversation includes a mention of an upcoming golf tournament to support the Henderson Force and a coaches masterclass with Harrison Luce.
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Hope to hear from you all really soon!

Episode 22: Halloween Hockey: Coast to Coast Coverage

In this Halloween special of Vegas Rinkside Rundown, hosts Jim and Ron deliver comprehensive coverage of youth hockey action from coast to coast. The episode kicks off with exciting announcements about the podcast's expansion plans and upcoming features, including new Masterclass interviews and specialized content from sports psychologists and nutritionists.
Tournament coverage takes center stage with detailed results from multiple events, including impressive performances by Ice Warriors teams at the Can-Am Scottsdale tournament and local successes at the Halloween Bash. The hosts also analyze recent games from Boston, where Vegas teams faced tough competition and overcame unique challenges.
A significant portion of the episode focuses on coaching philosophies and parent-coach dynamics, sparked by recent observations at tournaments. Jim and Ron dive deep into different coaching styles, discussing the balance between emotional engagement and professional conduct on the bench.
The episode concludes with updates on community development initiatives, including plans for expanded coverage and new opportunities for cross-state competition. The hosts continue their mission to build a stronger, more connected hockey community while providing valuable insights for players, parents, and coaches alike.
Got scores, stories, or feedback? Email us at info@vegasrinkside.com
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Ice Insights: Coaching Wisdom & Game Results

"In this episode of Vegas Rinkside Rundown, we take you through the latest in Las Vegas hockey. We cover exhilarating tournament results from the Beantown Classic to local league play, spotlighting the achievements and challenges of teams like the Las Vegas Ice Warriors and the Jr. Golden Knights. Dive into our discussion on coaching techniques, the '24-hour rule' for parents, and the mental game of hockey. Plus, get updates on UNLV's impressive performances and our plans for expanding community engagement through VegasRinkside.com. Whether you're a player, parent, or passionate fan, join us for insights, updates, and the passion of hockey in Vegas. Don't miss out on our community calls to action and how you can be part of the growing hockey narrative in the desert!"
 
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