#108 Hockey Champ "The Beard" Jay Croop on Fights, Fitness, Lessons from Losing

In the midst of the Stanley Cup playoffs, our guest this week is pro hockey player Jay Croop, known as "The Beard," a popular member of the Columbus (GA) River Dragons, which fell just short of repeating as FPHL champs in a 2OT loss. In the words of him and his coach, you better listen and subscribe to this "Run The Race" podcast...or else! (4:51) We start with fighting in hockey, why he gets into them, telling stories, and how his temper has changed. (8:07) Jay Croop talks about how he first fell in love with the sport in the 3rd grade during Show and Tell at school, going on to play hockey tons on the street or on the pond in Wisconsin. (10:30) He talks about the thrill and celebration of winning the Commissioners Cup 2 years in a row, with 2 different teams. He also talks about how losing can teach you a lot, for pro athletes or anyone. (15:45) Jay goes through his cardio and strength fitness routine in the offseason, and why he doesn't take days off from working out during the hockey season. (19:14) He also loves the fans in the "Hockey town of the south." And they love his trademark beard! (21:57) What drives him to compete so hard? (24:40) Jay also discusses his hockey injuries, losing teeth to a puck, and playing other sports like baseball. (28:06) He also opens up aboit being a role model and a future coach...whenever he hangs up his skates. (30:11) This hockey star has advice for those lacking motivation to keep fit and work hard. (34:01) Jay also mentors teammates, with losing the recent championship being a big fuel to the fire. What does he love most about hockey? (39:31) He also has an important message for those chasing dreams, since he's still living his - playing hockey. Thanks for listening to the #RunTheRace podcast! Also, write a quick review about it, on Apple podcasts. For more info, go to www.wtvm.com/podcast/.