The Mindset U Playbook
The Mindset U Playbook isn’t just about baseball; it’s about building a complete athlete and a complete person. Every episode dives into the habits, mental tools, and daily decisions that separate good players from great ones, and great players from great human beings.
Here, we explore the things that rarely make the highlight reel: discipline, mindset, leadership, recovery, focus, confidence, and the character it takes to thrive when the game ends and real life begins.
You’ll hear stories from athletes, coaches, and high performers who’ve learned that success isn’t built on talent alone; it’s built in the quiet hours, in the routines nobody sees, and in the way you handle the challenges life throws your way.
Whether you’re a youth athlete, a parent, a coach, or simply someone chasing your next level, The MindsetU Playbook gives you the game plan to win on the field and in life.
Because what happens off the field shapes everything on it.
The Mindset U Playbook
# 49 - Matt Pettinger - NHL Vet / Youth Hockey Coach
In this conversation, Curtis Pelletier and Matt Pettinger discuss Matt's journey from a young hockey player in Victoria, BC, to a professional athlete in the NHL. They explore the challenges and experiences of playing at various levels, the importance of mental health in sports, and the evolving landscape of youth sports, including the impact of technology and parental expectations. Matt shares insights from his career and his current role as a youth coach, emphasizing the importance of skill development and the balance between competition and enjoyment in sports.
Takeaways
- Matt Pettinger started playing hockey at a young age, around 7 or 8.
- He played competitive baseball until he was 14 before focusing on hockey.
- Participating in the Quebec tournament was a highlight of his minor hockey days.
- College hockey at the University of Denver was a significant step up for him.
- He made the World Junior team for Canada and left college to join the Calgary Hitman.
- Playing in Vancouver came with high expectations from passionate fans.
- Ovechkin's success is attributed to his physical tools and love for scoring.
- Mental health resources were limited during Matt's playing days.
- Coaching youth hockey, Matt emphasizes the importance of fun and skill development.
- Parental pressure in youth sports is a growing concern.
Sound Bites
- "That was special."
- "It was a big step up."
- "He loves scoring goals."
Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Early Life
02:55
Hockey Journey: From Youth to College
05:49
Transition to Professional Hockey
08:37
Playing in the NHL: Experiences and Challenges
11:20
Mental Aspects of Professional Sports
14:49
The Journey of Success in Sports
17:13
The Role of Coaches in Player Development
18:27
Coaching Youth: Lessons from Professional Experience
20:07
Parental Pressure and Youth Sports
22:10
The Dangers of Specialization in Youth Sports
23:56
The Impact of Technology on Youth Development
26:26
Reflecting on Personal Growth and Coaching Philosophy