Exploring the Future of College Hockey with Sean Hogan from College Hockey Inc. In this episode of Puck Academy, host Jason Jacobs welcomes Sean Hogan, Executive Director of College Hockey Inc. They discuss the origins, mission, and strategic priorities of the nonprofit organization which is dedicated to promoting college hockey. Key topics include the evolution of development pathways in hockey, the impact of rule changes on the sport, and the importance of making hockey more accessible. Hogan details various initiatives College Hockey Inc. is working on, such as conducting feasibility studies for new college teams and participating in events like the Spengler Cup. The conversation also delves into the challenges and opportunities in the current landscape of youth and collegiate hockey. 

00:00 Introduction to Puck Academy 

00:28 Meet Sean Hogan: Executive Director of College Hockey Inc. 

00:44 The Evolution and Mission of College Hockey Inc. 

01:42 Strategic Priorities and Development Pathways 

02:13 Discussion on Rule Changes and Their Implications 

02:25 Sean Hogan's Vision for the Future of Hockey 

02:33 Starting the Interview: Sean Hogan's Background 

03:40 Overview of College Hockey Inc.'s Activities 

04:17 Feasibility Studies and Partnerships 

04:41 Research and Education Initiatives 

05:29 The Importance of College Hockey in Player Development 

05:43 Historical Context and Rule Changes 

07:21 NHL's Support and the Importance of College Hockey 

08:57 Measuring Success and Increasing College Hockey's Profile 

11:31 Challenges and Opportunities in Expanding College Hockey 

14:58 Barriers to Growth and Facility Challenges 

16:34 Convincing Schools to Add Hockey Programs 

19:29 Balancing Trends and Steering the Future 

20:40 Elevating College Hockey's Profile 

23:47 Geographical Trends and Player Sources 

24:59 Trickle-Down Effects of Rule Changes 

26:40 NIL and Transfer Portal Impact 

27:55 Third Party NIL and Player Opportunities 

29:14 Funding College Hockey Programs 

30:56 Youth Hockey Accessibility Issues 

34:10 High School vs. Club Hockey Debate 

38:26 Prep School and Junior Hockey Trends 

42:56 College Hockey's Strategic Priorities 

45:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Note: Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (https://thepodcastconsultant.com).