"If we're in that pursuit of player development, we have to be okay with mistakes in practice."

In episode 207 of the Glass and Out Podcast, we welcome a returning guest Brooks Bandits GM and Head Coach Ryan Papaioannou. He is currently in his 14th season behind the bench for the Bandits, a program that he’s led to six AJHL Championships and three National Championships.

However, what is likely most impressive, is that Ryan has turned Brooks into a destination for aspiring hockey players across North America. The alumni list is long, highlighted by reigning Norris Trophy winner and Stanley Cup Champion Cale Makar.

One of the ways he’s been able to accomplish this is through an emphasis on good player development, which he believes must include an environment where player’s are allowed to grow through mistakes.

“As much as we want to have a perfect practice and we want it to look right and we want every pass to be on the tape, that’s not how the game’s played. We do need to chase some pucks down and catch bad passes… If we’re in that pursuit of player development, we have to be okay with mistakes in practice.”

Listen as he covers his offensive principles, the three qualities he looks for in players, and what it was like coaching a young Cale Makar.