In Episode 48 of The Hockey Lab Podcast, Coach A and Coach Gards sit down with Coach Luke, our head of speed and agility at GRP, to talk all things off-ice speed development, why intent matters more than perfect technique, and how to structure effective sprint sessions for athletes of all ages.

They also touch on NHL and OHL playoff updates, some hilarious coaching stories, and what it really takes to get faster—on and off the ice. From hill sprints to sprint mechanics, this is your full-speed offseason guide.

🔥 In this episode:

• Speed testing 101: how to self-assess sprint performance

• Why acceleration > top speed for hockey players

• Tools for off-ice sprint development (sleds, hills, timing drills)

• How to build intent into your speed work

• The importance of tracking, rest, and long-term development

• NHL Playoff reactions + off-season athlete mindset

If you’re serious about getting faster, this episode breaks down what most players overlook.

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28 Days, 28 Tips & 28 Ways to Help Your Young Athlete Improve

We're on a mission to help 1 million hockey players level up their game. If that sounds like something you’d be interested in, then don’t miss our weekly episodes. We’ll share our experiences, interview some of the top players in the game (old and new), and provide you with actionable tips, you know, things that actually make you a better player.

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The Hosts 

Coach Adrian (A) @championshiplifestyle

From growing up in a small blue-collar Canadian city to becoming the Head Strength Coach at Gary Roberts Performance hockey has taught me many of life’s lessons. I’ve been blessed to spend the last 12 years helping some of the top NHL players – like McDavid and Stamkos – prepare for the season. 

Fun Fact – I fought MMA professionally for nearly a decade. 

Coach Ryan (Gards) 

Gards is the real star of the show. He is our On-Ice Coach at Gary Roberts Performance he’s a veteran of over 1000 NLA (Switzerland’s Top League) games. Gards has played in 5 Spengler Cups, 3 World Championships, and 1 Olympics. 

Fun Fact – Gard's grandfather Cal is a “Top 100 Leaf of All Time.”

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Gary Roberts Performance hosts this podcast. If you’re looking to take your game to the next level, GRP offers comprehensive training programs for the elite hockey player.

Click the link below to Book a Call with a GR Coach.

Book A Call With A GR Coach 

IG: @garyrobertshpt

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