Sports agent and advisor Ross Gurney shares his unique perspective on youth sports from both sides - as a professional who's guided players through leagues like the NHL & CFL and as a father navigating the youth sports environment with his own two children. With clients like Duncan Keith, Devon Toews, and Zach Benson, Ross has seen what it actually takes to make it to the highest levels of sport. But his message might surprise you: it's not about early specialization, elite camps, or rushing up levels. Instead, Ross advocates for "overcooking"—playing level-appropriate hockey where kids get more reps and meaningful roles. 

In this conversation, Ross discusses:

• Why early specialization is concerning from both a professional and parental lens
• The dangerous overuse of the word "elite" in youth sports
• How good people can become "crazy sports parents" in one sport but not another
• What coaches actually want (hint: it's not always the stat-sheet leaders)
• Warning signs for parents when evaluating programs and organizations
• Why the biggest issue in youth sports today is access and facilities
• How to identify a child's unique "internal scorecard" beyond traditional statistics

Ross also shares the powerful moment when his own son told him, "Dad, I don't think I want to be a hockey player"—and why that conversation was actually "really cool." Whether your child dreams of playing professionally or you just want them to develop a lifelong love of sport, this episode offers invaluable wisdom on keeping joy, passion, and authentic play at the center of the youth sports experience.