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

Insights from Ken Martel: USA Hockey’s Player & Coach Development Vision

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

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/⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com⁠⁠ [https://www.usahockey.com/] Drew Shore - https://www.drewshore.com/⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠ [https://www.drewshore.com/] Lyndsey Fry - https://www.lindseyfry.com/⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠ [https://www.lindseyfry.com/]

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

Key Points From This Episode:[00:00 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA]] Introduction to the USA Hockey Next Generation Podcast and overview of the episode. [00:00:26 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=26s]] Host Lindsay Fry introduces guest Laura Verheranta. [00:00:50 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=50s]] Laura shares a look into her team, the LA Lions, and their Nationals experience. [00:01:04 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=64s]] Discussion of team vibe, fun, and the benefits of the one‑game‑per‑day schedule. [00:01:24 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=84s]] What motivates adult players to attend Nationals and memorable moments like beach trips. [00:01:53 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=113s]] Shark‑tooth hunting and exploring local Florida activities. [00:02:14 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=134s]]Team strategies, game forecasting, and embracing the full tournament experience. [00:02:31 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=151s]] Introduction of guest Tori Pizzuto and her double‑rostering journey. [00:02:43 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=163s]] Tori explains the benefits of playing on multiple teams and the strength of long‑standing community ties. [00:03:34 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=214s]] Why she returns each year and how competition levels have evolved. [00:04:18 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=258s]] Comparing this tournament to others, highlighting camaraderie and competitive seriousness. [00:04:49 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=289s]] How teams prepare, scout, and approach Nationals with a competitive mindset. [00:05:36 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=336s]] Introduction of Kenzie from the Carolina Lady Hurricanes and her team’s recent success. [00:05:56 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=356s]] Kenzie discusses feeling physically and emotionally “hot” and confident during the event. [00:07:20 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=440s]] Kenzie’s year‑round hockey routine across multiple leagues and why consistent play matters. [00:08:00 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=480s]] Game strategy, team chemistry, and pre‑game plans — including off‑ice bonding. [00:08:33 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vhiw32NN8pA&t=513s]] Closing remarks and well wishes for the tournament, emphasizing camaraderie and fun.Links: USA Hockey - ⁠⁠https://www.usahockey.com [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbXJ2M3o5dTVJdlRXRVhyelVjT3RDQzBZU1Zod3xBQ3Jtc0treTVvbzRhakRiREJia1Y4Zlpzdml1ekFOV1BUWVl5VkFfR181QVdjWE5RVm1IUXB3aDVGYzhiamNyQ202WGw0QTIzU3lsbDFuSHFsTW1VcTdnaTkyR1E0ZkNydnAyUkpwemR2c1l3Tm1FX1U3X0tRcw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.usahockey.com%2F&v=Vhiw32NN8pA]⁠⁠ Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠ [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbE9FTG1zdWtGSWh5aVY0aFNucThEQTlnZFI4UXxBQ3Jtc0trQmdpVnA5VW5HQUNRSHFNSUd1YjR5ZFZMX0I0XzZyVmQtbkFXUk5JbzhRWWZ0LUlLZ0FfdWZtTUJLVjltclVmaWJrR05OZC0ydnhSYWs1R0lYSUdHal9FT1JCQmsyN0Z1dXlReV9NTjRnWTRpNy1LYw&q=https%3A%2F%2Ffryhockey.com%2F%E2%81%A0&v=Vhiw32NN8pA]

Building the Future: Bob Mancini on USA Hockey’s Development Pathway

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 [https://www.usahockey.com/]  Drew Shore -⁠ ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠⁠ [https://www.drewshore.com/]  Lindsey Fry -⁠ ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠⁠ [https://www.lindseyfry.com/]

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

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 [https://www.usahockey.com/]  Drew Shore - ⁠https://www.drewshore.com⁠⁠ [https://www.drewshore.com/]  Lindsey Fry - ⁠⁠https://fryhockey.com/⁠ [https://www.lindseyfry.com/]