Sean Baligian and Mike Iavasile sit down with Chris Benedict, head coach of the Muskegon Mona Shores Sailors, to discuss the team’s outlook for the 2024-2025 season. They cover the new co-op with Whitehall, returning star players, and the excitement around West Michigan high school hockey. Coach Benedict also shares insights on the benefits of playing high school hockey and how his coaching journey has shaped his approach. Don’t miss this episode filled with stories, rivalries, and a preview of what’s to come!

In this special episode of Wut The Puck?!, host Sean Baligian sits down with Clarkston Hockey Head Coach Nathan Bryer for an in-depth conversation about building a powerhouse high school hockey program. Coach Bryer shares insights on the evolution of Clarkston from an underdog to a perennial contender, the culture of dedication that defines his team, and the challenges of competing at the highest level of Michigan high school hockey.

They discuss recent successes, the thrill of competing in intense playoff atmospheres, and highlight some of the standout players who have moved on to college and junior leagues. Plus, Coach Bryer reflects on the importance of showcases, the impact of community support, and what it means to play for your school. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for players, coaches, and fans alike. Tune in to learn what it takes to create a lasting legacy on and off the ice.

Join host Sean Baligian and co-host Mike Iavasile as they dive deep into Michigan High School Hockey, focusing on the Howell Highlanders. In this episode, they sit down with newly appointed head coach Keith Robertson, who reflects on his coaching journey, from his time at Livonia Stevenson to taking over the helm at Howell. Coach Robertson shares insights into his philosophy of player development, the challenges of filling ten open roster spots, and his excitement for the incoming freshman class. The trio also discusses the competitive nature of the KLAA league, Howell’s key returning players, and the importance of building a winning culture. This episode is a must-listen for any high school hockey enthusiast, filled with stories of dedication, growth, and the love for the game.

Tune in for a deep dive into the present and future of Howell Highlanders hockey and get ready for an exciting season ahead!

In this special episode of Wut the Puck?!, Sean Baligian and Mike Iavasile welcome Saginaw Heritage Hawks head hockey coach J.J. Bamberger for an in-depth look at his two decades of coaching experience. Bamberger shares stories from his early days, the challenges of building a competitive program, and the legacy of Saginaw’s rich hockey history. The conversation highlights standout players and the team's preparations for the 2024 season. They also discuss the importance of multi-sport athletes, the impact of community support, and Bamberger’s approach to long-term program success. This episode offers valuable insights for high school hockey fans and coaches alike, focusing on fostering talent, building a culture of excellence, and remembering the significance of mentorship and leadership in sports. Thank you to our friends in the Michigan High School Hockey Coaches Association for their support.

Rochester United Hockey: Head Coach Tucker Penning Joins Sean Beligian on Wut the Puck?! Join Sean Beligian and Mike Iavasile in this episode of What the Puck, presented by the Michigan High School Hockey Coaches Association. They sit down with Tucker Penning, the head coach of Rochester United, to discuss the exciting developments in Michigan high school hockey. Tucker shares insights into his coaching journey, the growth of high school hockey in Michigan, his team's prospects for the upcoming season, and the tight-knit community within the sport. Don't miss this in-depth conversation around the vibrant world of high school hockey. Thank you to our friends in the Michigan High School Hockey Coaches Association for their support. 00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Show 00:47 Interview with Tucker Penning: Rochester United's Journey 02:13 The Evolution of High School Hockey 03:33 Tucker Penning's Coaching Background 05:13 Building a Strong Team Culture 08:14 Challenges and Rivalries in High School Hockey 12:36 Upcoming Season and Key Games 23:09 The Excitement of Trenton Hockey 24:02 Preseason Preparations and Summer Leagues 25:30 Upcoming Season and Key Matches 26:50 Building the Future of Rochester United Hockey 29:27 The Unique Appeal of High School Hockey 32:52 Improving High School Hockey Competitions 35:50 Celebrating Success and Looking Ahead 37:53 Personal Milestones and Closing Remarks

High School Hockey Success Stories with Coach Matthew Meyer Join host Sean Baligian and co-host Mike Iavasile in this episode of Wut The Puck?! as they talk with Coach Matthew Meyer, head coach of Ann Arbor Skyline's high school hockey team. Coach Meyer shares insights into his unique coaching journey, the growth of hockey in Michigan, and the promising talent in his team. He also highlights the challenges and excitement of the upcoming season, gives advice to young players considering high school hockey, and discusses the importance of creating a strong team culture. Don't miss this in-depth conversation about high school hockey's impact and progression. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:46 Interview with Coach Matthew Meyer 01:39 Coach Meyer's Background and Journey 03:31 Coaching Philosophy and Experience 05:31 High School Hockey in Michigan 08:50 Skyline High School Hockey Team 11:54 Challenges and Expectations for the Season 15:36 Spotlight on Key Players 19:47 Must-See Games and Final Thoughts 21:13 Competing in SEC Games 21:26 The Secret of High School Hockey 21:57 Why Choose High School Hockey? 23:30 Developing Young Players 25:30 Improving High School Hockey 25:53 Challenges and Solutions 27:40 Building a Strong Program 31:21 Upcoming Season and Goals 35:13 Excitement for the New Season 38:20 Personal Stories and Reflections 40:17 Closing Remarks and Credits

Join hosts Sean Baligian and Mike Iavasile in an exciting episode of Wut The Puck?! presented by the Michigan High School Hockey Coaches Association. This week, they sit down with Midland High School's head coach, Steve Witt. The conversation spans across Witt's playing and coaching career, the growth of high school hockey in Michigan, the impact of showcases, and the importance of character in scouting. The episode concludes with a passionate discussion about the future of high school hockey and upcoming games. 00:00 Introduction to What the Puck 01:22 Spotlight on Coach Steve Witt 02:11 Steve Witt's Playing Career 05:29 Transition to Coaching 06:35 Growth of High School Hockey 16:10 Midland High School Hockey Culture 20:49 Regional Hockey Pride 24:06 The Coaches' Mission: Elevating High School Hockey 24:36 The 27-Game Proposal: A Game Changer? 26:03 Community Support and Team Spirit 26:58 A Proud Dad: Matthew's Journey to College Hockey 30:38 Advice for Aspiring Junior Hockey Players 33:26 The Importance of Character in Hockey 37:29 Exciting Upcoming Games and Schedules 39:08 Showcases: A Win-Win for High School Hockey 41:09 Final Thoughts and Farewell

The Proven Path: Michigan High School Hockey with Jim Young & Negaunee Miners Dive into an engaging discussion on high school hockey with host Sean Belegian in this special edition of Wut The Puck?! , presented by the Michigan High School Hockey Coaches Association. Featuring a passionate talk with Jim Young, a long-time supporter and broadcaster of Michigan high school hockey, as well as insights from Negaunee High School’s Coach Hopper and standout player Riley Williams. Learn why high school hockey is a proven path to higher levels of the game and hear exciting updates about Negaunee Miners' upcoming season and players' journeys. Don't miss this celebration of community, talent, and the future of hockey in Michigan. 00:00 Introduction to the Proven Path in High School Hockey 01:44 Interview with Jimmy Young: The Voice of the UP 03:27 The Evolution and Success of High School Hockey Programs 05:10 Challenges and Triumphs in High School Hockey 06:21 Community Pride and Rivalries in Copper Country 15:58 The Proven Path: Success Stories and Future Prospects 25:52 Special Guest Ricky Gadwa Joins the Show 26:34 Jimmy's High School Hockey Broadcasts 28:08 Heartfelt Thanks and Reflections 30:22 The Proven Path: High School Hockey's Future 31:32 Nagani Miners: Building a Legacy 32:38 Riley Williams: A Rising Star 37:28 Coach Hopper's Vision for Nagani Hockey 43:23 Looking Ahead: Upcoming Season and Challenges 48:01 Final Thoughts and Farewells