Swan Hockey

Bill and the Kitchener Rangers(OHL) have won the Memorial Cup! The junior hockey season is officially over. Eric and Bill discuss the championship run in this season finale of the Swan Hockey podcast. Season 3 coming soon!Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Eric's recent social media posts sparked comment from USHL commissioner Glenn Hefferan. Eric and Glenn bring the conversation to the podcast. They discuss the ongoing comparison between the CHL vs USHL, the USHL's approach and pathway to the NHL, and what a USHL Combine is. As an added bonus, Glenn and Eric give away New Jersey's secret to the best pizza in the world!Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

In this episode, we welcome Roger Shannon to the pod. With the Memorial Cup about to begin, Roger and Eric discuss the prestige that surrounds one of the most iconic championships in hockey. They dive into Roger’s Memorial Cup victory and his journey running organizations in the QMJHL. They also touch on highly regarded coach Gardiner MacDougall, current NHL superstars who came through the CHL, the growing impact of the NCAA, the memory of Mr. Robert Irving, and the importance of having fun along the way.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Bill Underwood and the Kitchener Rangers have won the OHL Cup! They are now off to the CHL finals- Memorial Cup! Eric and Bill discuss the championship run and Eric ponders the possibility of Leo Gould and the Moncton Wildcats(QMJHL) meeting Kitchener in the Mem Cup. Eric and Bill also talk NHL dynasties, CHL history, and what Bill looks for when scouting for the next Kitchener Ranger! Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Eric is joined by Bill Underwood(Kitchener OHL). They discuss the USHL Draft, the shockingly small impact the USHL Combines had, as well as what free agents should expect if choosing to attending a USHL Main Camp.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

David Michaud is the President of the Victoria Grizzlies(BCHL). David and Eric discuss the Grizzlies, the BCHL, as well as the pedigree and standards that come along with the level. Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Bryan Erikson is the GM/Head Coach of the Northeast Generals(NAHL). In this episode, Bryan and Eric discuss the importance of having fun as Bryan shares his coaching views. The conversation turns to the immense amount of confusion in today's Junior Hockey landscape that's making it harder than ever for new players to navigate. Bryan says the uncomfortable truth about pay to play "Main" camps.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

The NCDC has been in the center of the ever changing junior hockey landscape. Now commissioner Tony Zasowski steps into the pod. Tony and Eric discuss the league's progressive vision, the mentality behind it, and the opportunity they are presenting to players.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

The USHL has implemented player contracts known as Standard Player Development Agreements(SPDA's). Are these a great next step for the country's top junior league? Or are these a set of handcuffs for anyone who signs? Let's go!Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

The NAHL announces their boldest rule change maybe ever. Eric and Bill Underwood discuss the what, the why, and the who. Strap in for this wild episode as the junior hockey world tears further apart.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Last week Eric posted a social media reel that got a lot of attention. Ryan Swain brings up an interesting point about it and Andrew Serpico weighs in. Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Eric makes a realization that Andrew spent days trying to disprove. Join the boys in this episode and see if you can help disprove it in the discord.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

In this episode Eric expands his thoughts on the role and necessity of the NTDP; The big question, could the resources be better spent?  Eric also offers thoughts on what an evolved NTDP model could look like. Bill Underwood joins the pod for this journey around the top of the USA junior hockey ladder.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

A couple weeks ago, Eric sparked a debate between the U18 'AAA' and Tier 3 Junior levels. Now, Eric brings Ryan Swain onto the pod to discuss the point of view. Ryan has coached both levels and trains NHL players during the summer. The two dive into the fork in the road in this mind bending episode.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

USA Wins the Gold at the Olympics. Eric discusses the thought of dissolving the USNTDP in hopes of an overall stronger USA Hockey. Andrew Serpico, Asst. Director of U.S. Scouting for Neutral Zone, joins the pod for this whirlwind of an episode.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

The NCDC claims they are the Premiere Tier II Jr. A league in the USA. Don't laugh yet. Instead, join us in this episode as Eric Swanick looks into the future of how this could possibly become reality. Eric is joined by special guest Bill Underwood.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Eric Swanick flys around the junior and youth hockey world. Joined by special guest Bill Underwood, the boys discuss the most pressing issues that currently exist in hockey in North America.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

USA Hockey just announced their biggest change since the American Development Model(ADM) and the National Team Development Program(NTDP). The brand new Nation Development League, or NDL, will commence for the 2027-2028 season. Eric Swanick breaks is down with special guest Bill Underwood.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

The USPHL just announced their NIL program for the NCDC and Premier Divisions. Eric Swanick and guest Bill Underwood dive into this first of its kind program in the junior hockey world.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Andrew Serpico joins the show. The Assistant Director of U.S. Scouting for Neutral Zone sits down with Eric to discuss Team USA at the World Juniors, the current state of youth hockey, and the evolving role of the ACHA. Plus, they dive into Andrew’s almost unbelievable ability to win competitions.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Andrey Kapranov joins the podcast. Andrey is the Associate Head Coach of the New Jersey Titans (NAHL).Eric and Andrey break down the Titans’ push in a tightly contested Eastern Division race, discuss the current roster, and explore how the organization is building for the future within the evolving junior hockey landscape.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Justin Friedman joins the podcast. Justin is the Director of Scouting for the Madison Capitols (USHL) and the Philadelphia Rebels (NAHL).Justin and Eric sit down for a wide-ranging conversation on junior hockey, covering the latest developments across the landscape.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

In this episode, Eric is joined by Leo Gould — longtime scout for the QMJHL powerhouse and defending champion Moncton Wildcats, as well as co-owner of the Chaleur Lightning, who currently sit atop their division in the MHL.Eric and Leo dive into life in Moncton and Chaleur, how the two worlds overlap in today’s evolving junior hockey landscape, and—of course—the Wildcats’ brand-new, million-dollar team bus.Episode note: Recorded before NCDC expansion to Florida, Southeast, and MidwestWant to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Step inside the office of Nick Skerlick, Head Coach & GM of the Maine Nordiques (NAHL), as Eric sits down for a behind-the-scenes look at what an NAHL GM/Head Coach really does.Nick breaks down everything from recruiting strategy to player expectations, advancement, and the constantly shifting landscape of junior hockey.This is one of the most honest, transparent conversations you’ll hear about how NAHL teams think and operate.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Eric Swanick(@swancommander) and Bill Underwood discuss junior hockey's biggest question. Eric doubles down on a bold prediction. Join the Swan Hockey discord and let us know what you think!Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

A.J. Galante, the general manager of one of the most famous teams in hockey steps into the pod. AJ and Eric discuss the Danbury Trashers, youth and junior hockey, as well as the Trashers challenge to the NHL after receiving a cease and desist from the Nation Hockey League. Strap in, let's go!Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Fresh off his Jonas Brother's concert, Andrew Serpico(@easerps) is back in the pod. He and Eric Swanick(@swancommander) break down the Americans in the NHL based on where they played junior hockey.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

The boys are back! This time @swancommander sits down with Ryan Swain to discuss skill development's place in a player's progression. How do we get our skill set to the NHL level?Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

This episode stemmed from Eric Swanick(@swancommander) asking Andrew Serpico(@easerps) a somewhat hypothetical question in a private conversation; "I wonder how many current NHL players ran around the country chasing "top programs and green grass" vs how many just kept it simple, played at home living a normal life, and just dominated.Well, Andrew compiled the data and steps into the pod!Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Eric Swanick(@swancommander) is joined by Jimmy Skillz. They discuss coaching, coach ability, and player development.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Ryan Swain(Swain's Hockey Skills & Development) is back with insight to help players develop the physical skills of a hockey player as well as to discuss the mental skills beneath them. Ryan's insight is an awesome contribution to the Swan Hockey perspective.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Weekend review 10/13. Eric finds an abnormality in the NAHL and discusses it with all of you. Bill Underwood is also phoned in mid episode to weigh in. Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Mark Carlson steps into the pod! After securing USHL win #779 last Friday, he is the winningest coach in USHL regular season history! Join Mark and Eric for this episode!Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

@swancommander discusses the past weekend in junior hockey and discusses the college appeal of all three tiers of junior in the USA.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

The hockey landscape for up and coming players continues to evolve. The latest change in this new look are the first players going from minor league pro hockey to NCAA D1 programs. Eric Swanick(@swancommander and Bill Underwood(Kitchener Rangers) sit down to discuss this trending hot topic.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

@swancommander cruises around junior hockey sharing some thoughts on some key weekend moments and happenings including the NAHL Blaine Showcase, a USHL record on the verge of being broken, CHL/USHL broadcasts, and a dive beneath the surface of the NA3HL's southeast division.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

A once on high level of hockey has turned into one of the most volatile levels there is. A scattered among the chaos, still lies strong performers in player, staff, and organizations. @swancommander is joined by Kitchiner Rangers(OHL) scout, Bill Underwood.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

This episode and perspective may change the way you look at the game! A @swancommander solo session that any aspiring player/family needs to hear! Every spectrum has two ends. We complain about the one end of politics; learn here how to benefit from the other end!Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

In this episode, Eric dives into a perspective that most don't see. A different perspective offers a different view on the journey and how to navigate it. What if instead of expensive, time consuming, and frustrating, this was the fun and enjoyment in which why you started playing in the first place? Come dive in!Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

NH Mountain Kings(NAHL) Head Coach and Eric Swanick(@swancommander) discuss the challenges teams face heading into the season. These challenges have always been there but are amplified with CHL players now being able to play in the NCAA. Will rules and structure change? What's the solution?Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

@swancommander and USHL commissioner Glenn Hefferan have an extremely intriguing conversation about the USHL and the new junior hockey landscape including the question of the USHL joining the CHL in the Memorial Cup; or a new tournament all together! SwanCommander takes over as commissioner for a few minutes and Glenn grades the results. The two debate about the NTDP and it's place in the league; all wrapped up with remarkable insight on the league. Join us for this wild ride! The United States Hockey League is the highest level of junior hockey in the United States and we can't wait to see what's next for it!Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

@swancommander and USHL commissioner Glenn Hefferan have an extremely intriguing conversation about the USHL and the new junior hockey landscape including the question of the USHL joining the CHL in the Memorial Cup; or a new tournament all together! SwanCommander takes over as commissioner for a few minutes and Glenn grades the results. The two debate about the NTDP and it's place in the league; all wrapped up with remarkable insight on the league. Join us for this wild ride! The United States Hockey League is the highest level of junior hockey in the United States and we can't wait to see what's next for it!Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Longtime friend Ryan Swain joins the pod. @swancommander and Ryan discuss player development in terms of training. Ryan is a quick rising skill development professional and is the owner of Swain's Hockey Skills & Development based out of NJ. Ryan most recently opened up Swain's Hockey Lab in Staten Island, NY in addition to bringing his methods to the Southeast as part of the ownership group that recently opened up Elev802 Tampa.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Longtime friend Ryan Swain joins the pod. @swancommander and Ryan discuss player development in terms of training. Ryan is a quick rising skill development professional and is the owner of Swain's Hockey Skills & Development based out of NJ. Ryan most recently opened up Swain's Hockey Lab in Staten Island, NY in addition to bringing his methods to the Southeast as part of the ownership group that recently opened up Elev802 Tampa.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

In this episode @swancommander and Bill Underwood(Kitchener Rangers) rank and discuss the Tier 2 junior hockey leagues in the U.S.A.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Journey across the map with @swancommander and Kitchener Rangers(OHL) scout Bill Underwood.  What is....what has been....what could be!Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Eric Swanick(@swancommander) and Kitchener Rangers(OHL) scout Bill Underwood discuss the misguided spending habits of hockey families. Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Leo Gould is the U.S.A. Scout for the 2025 QMJHL Champion Moncton Wildcats. Leo sits down with Eric Swanick to discuss the magic in Moncton.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Eric Swanick and Kitchener Rangers(OHL) scout Bill Underwood discuss the draft results; Kitchener's success as well as the place of the CHL, NCAA, USHL, and USNTDP in this year's draft.Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d

Eric Swanick and Bill Underwood discuss the NCDC expansion to Canada. What does this do for the NCDC? How will it stack up to the Canadian Jr. 'A' leagues already in that territory?Want to dig deeper or ask follow-up questions? The conversation continues in the Discord — join free here: https://discord.gg/7UVWaJyR4d