Gringo's Notes

Ads, Concussions, Rules and Statues

2011-03-09T13:54:00.000-08:00

MHC has always been a proponent of one set of rules for Hockey. We proposed it back in 1998 in a letter to Mr Bettman and still believe it should be that way. See letter below:

June 16, 1998

Gary Bettman
NHL Commissioner
1251 Avenue of the Americas
47th Floor
New York, NY 10020

Dear Mr. Bettman

I've been meaning to write this letter a long time and decided I'd better get it done during this fourth game of the cup. You've done an excellent job during your tenure as commissioner and I can only see the league getting better. I see the NHL as more of a culture than a league and in many situations change is difficult and takes time.

I have always felt that some of the college rules would lead to more entertainment in the NHL. Eliminate the two-line pass and create more space behind the net. I feel you should use the red line for icing only. These two moves would eliminate hooking and holding that is so prevalent in the NHL. You would be upgrading the talent level in the league because more skill players would be needed to replace the slower players who would find it difficult to compete.

Goaltenders would find it more difficult to leave their net to make plays.

You have been successful getting the minor leagues to experiment, but I feel you should get the junior leagues and the colleges together with one set of rules, then the minor pros and then the NHL. If you would get the International Community to accept, then you will have everyone on one page. The last time I looked, the goal of every young man in the lesser leagues was to play in the NHL so why not bring everyone together. This may seem impossible but I believe that a man with your skills could accomplish this. The NHL is providing assistance to many so you do have bargaining power.

Wishing you continued success in your position as commissioner of the greatest sport in the world.

With respect

Chuck Grillo
President of Minnesota Hockey Camps
http://www.mnhockeycamps.com

CONCUSSIONS

As we look @ various ways people are attempting to curb injuries in the NHL, one glaring situation always comes to mind. We need to have guidelines that can be measured by the officials. This takes away the decision of whether a hit is accidental or with intent to injure.

We took time to go to the rule book to see if a player is limited to the number of steps they can take before it constitutes “charging”. We couldn’t find any and we firmly believe it should be three (3) or less if your thinking is in the best interests of the players. This gives the physical player ample time to deliver an honest check if that is their intent; but more importantly it forces players @ all levels to learn containment versus punishing the opponent beyond repair. When is the last time you saw the signal for charging? If recently, how often did you see it compared to other calls?

There is nothing any more dynamic in the game than an opponent controlling another opponent while separating them fm the puck. This is what we call textbook takeouts; one fundamental of textbook hockey.

As we travel around observing the game @ all levels, one glaring skill that is missing is the fundamentals of containment and use of leverage. Containment is easily learned and is a skill that extends careers. We know too many athletes who fall short in this skill and it’s costing them the opportunity to advance in the game.

Limiting the steps forces the defender to establish position, gain the shoulder (leverage) and separate the puck carrier fm the puck. We have always taught checking this way because it accomplishes a number of things that give you an edge on your opponent.

 Eliminates the opponent fm the puck
 Establishes position to the point where your body is able to protect the puck and the opponent will have to go around you to get to the puck
 Controls the opponents’ mind. There is nothing more frustrating and psychologically damaging than the opponent controlling your body.
 Teaches players the value of touch and carry skills in traffic as they attempt to protect the puck
 Why take a penalty for a stupid hit, when you can frustrate your opponent, control their mind, to the point where they feel defeated with a simple textbook take out

As we think back to our early years, the number two (2) comes to mind in certain rule books. This number was used so players would have a tougher time generating speed on a hit. It kept hits limited to the genetic impact strength of the person making contact. Two (2) steps and then contact or you are whistled for charging. We don’t pretend to know the number to use in pro, but we do believe there should be a number that enables officials to make split second decisions.

With the new obstruction rules, players are capable of generating high speeds going for pucks and on the fore check. It’s time to limit access to the opponent by instituting some type of measurement like number of steps; @ least using it as a guideline. If players skate a long distance, coast, and then take two steps, the coasting phase counts as steps. They simply came too far and that can lead to injuries.

Players generating speed and traveling multiple steps to hit someone are the cause of too many injuries in the game. Injuries aside, this type of situation also incites the opponent to the level of games getting out of control because it looks so deliberate. The players feel the need to police it and thus the reason for games getting out of hand.

We’ve studied these situations for years. Limiting steps would be very easy for referees to make a decision. It is really a no decision because you simply broke the rules. Containment and takeouts become an art equal to skating, passing, receiving and shooting that we’ve had an appreciation for our entire career. We worked on it daily and our goal each game day was 100% take outs.

STATUES

This is our second (2nd) writing requesting the NHL place statues of all their Hall of Famers in front of the appropriate rinks. One, in front of their pro rink if it’s still standing; two, in front of their development rink if it’s still standing; three, in front of an appropriate rink in the vicinity. Statues have a significant value in preserving the game as well as developing more followers of the game.

One need only go to Pittsburgh and count the number of pictures taken daily of all the statues in the various sports. We’ve seen it in person in Pittsburgh and @ the Excel Energy Center with the statue of Herb Brooks. This is a small price to pay for preserving legacies and growing the great sport we’ve been a part of our entire life. Get the statues built and erected and you will see this great game grow to another level.

ADVERTISING

No sport can claim the level of humor and character that we have in hockey. Whether on the bus, plane, in a locker room, on the practice sheet or during a game, the stories from the past and in to the present are precious and too good to keep away fm the public. Ads should be rated by their level of humor or their serious message to youth.

HBO did an excellent job of selling the sport to the public on New Year’s Day. This is one more way of making sure people find out that our players and employees are great people with an unbelievable sense of humor that can brighten anyone’s life just by making them public. Humor sells the game, people with humor sell the game and the game with its humorous side will open the public’s eyes as to how real this sport is to life.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.963.2444 Fax 218.963.2325

Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com - All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Climbers Who Care

2011-03-02T06:17:00.000-08:00

Climbers who Care

Separating yourself fm the pack

Every person on this earth has a right to advance in life. While it’s your right to keep climbing, it’s also your responsibility to care about others in the process. How you climb is the issue. You have every right to separate yourself fm the group and MHC is the first to want you to do just that. Each year, usually around the end of February, players who improve start to separate themselves fm the group. This should be your goal. There is a way to involve the team in the process and it has to do with sharing.

Climbers who Care fit in the locker room and board room. They are detail people who care about their teammates and co-workers before any personal gains. Climbers who Care fit nicely in to companies. They are authentic, do everything with purpose, for a reason, and their self-esteem rises to unimaginable levels. Keep Climbing, Keep Sharing, and Keep Caring before Carrying and Climbing.

Climbers who Care are not something new to the scene. Its part of your upbringing that needs to be revisited with frequency in team sports to stifle greed and ensure success in a team setting whether on ice or off.

There is such a thing as good greed in a game and we believe there is not enough good greed. Good greed is an average of three (3) shots per game by defensemen who can shoot (finesse defensemen). If a defenseman has a great shot, teammates have to set them up and encourage shooting; especially if they like assists and winning.
We have no statistic on forwards but a low percentage of completion on shots means the wrong person is shooting or shooting too much. When you get that opportunity in front, have the mentality to bury your chances with zero inhibitions. Don’t look surprised it’s happening in front of you.

People who care find it tough to focus on the task @ hand when people they care about suffer. When part of your head and heart are with the other person, it’s tough to focus on your vested interests; tasks @ hand. This takes an adjustment on the part of the Caregiver. This means you need an awareness of how it works and then you adjust.

Tell me a fact; I will learn. Tell me the truth; I will believe. Tell me stories related to truthful experiences; I will treasure them the rest of my life. This is the foundation for the trust that helps develop players and build teams.

Players need to put the words smart or smartly before or after technical and tactical levels of the game. Well rounded players shoot smartly when they should shoot, pass smartly when they should pass, carry smartly only out of necessity and move pucks smartly to get them back by smartly going to an open area. This will give you a higher completion rate in your passes because you will be unconditionally moving the puck to an opening the split second that opportunity is there. Bad passes are a direct result of failure to trust your instincts; most often a split second too late.

This also includes smart anticipation, smartly competing, smart take-outs, smart hits, smart checking forward or back and there is much more as you go through each skill.

Talented players, coming thru the ranks, are used to carrying before sharing because it was easy and they may have been one of a few go to guys or the go to guy. It gets harder moving up because critical moments are what they are; split second moments that close up fast. All of a sudden the strength that made you a great prospect in your early years becomes a liability that stifles growth as a pro.

“Execution in critical moments is a skill and true measurement of player performance.”

Great mentors embolden players to have the boldness and courage to make plays in grey areas that make most coaches cringe. We believe players given a license to make plays in the grey areas will improve more than peers who are forced to chip pucks out and get it deep. Once acquired, these plays become part of the player’s arsenal and the conversion percentages continue to go up.

“Grease wheels, versus reinventing, set guidelines and let instincts take over.”

We judge people and players by their deeds. Appearance, color, ethnic background, or status is not an issue. People are authentic when what you see is what you get.

Being a pro is like being in some weird bubble or fantasy land. There are both real and bogus experiences, so beware of the “false blessing of success”. There have been too many examples out there of too egotistical, too unethical, too uncaring and narcissist behavior types. It happens every season. Learn fm it and bring yourself to the level of authenticity, purpose, reality, reason, substance and self-esteem you will need to succeed.

Society’s ills are prevalent everywhere we look. Corporate climbers are in abundance these days. Sort them out, expose the problem, create awareness, correct it, or move on to what is right. Make a special place for Corporate Climbers who Care.

Corporate settings are a breeding ground for perception, deception and greed. There are agenda driven people who are “politically correct” with “corporate bedside manners” who “articulate” well with “sound bites” that make people giddy. Smart owners sort through this behavior prior to promoting.

Solid companies are built on authenticity, purpose, reality, reason and substance. Teams are part of a company, have similar issues in the locker room and on ice, but are built the same way. The players are “real people” in that locker room.

The difference is deception, false information, hand drops, fakes and good greed done in concert when passing, carrying and shooting on ice is acceptable in a team setting because it enables you to complete plays. It is fun to be deceiving when it’s recognized as a skill and leads to success.

 Keep Climbing with Authenticity
 Keep Caring with Purpose
 Keep Giving; it’s Reality
 Keep Sharing with Reason
 Raise your Self-Esteem to unimaginable levels
 The rest will fall nicely in to place; with Substance being your common denominator. Your career will go in the right direction.

The revered words are:

“We love your son/daughter because he/she is a detail person who cares about his/her teammates, and others, before any personal gains. This is living life, playing and working with purpose.”

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.963.2444 Fax 218.963.2325

Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com - All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

The Star Spangled Banner

2011-02-07T13:41:00.000-08:00

The Star Spangled Banner

National Anthem of the United States of America

The music, which is the melody, is written by John Stafford Smith around 1775 and arranged by William J Krauss.

The current text is written by Francis Scott Key in 1814.

Since 1931 this is the official anthem of the United States of America.
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When you attend over 300 events a year, you get to hear a lot of national anthems sung and played in many countries. There is nothing greater than an anthem sung the way it should be sung. There is nothing worse than performances deviating fm the Anthem.

We’ve been witness to people singing their anthem to the music and lyrics and have been swept off our feet to the point of “goose bumps”. We know the feeling when it's done right!

The Star Spangled Banner is an anthem that is respected and revered by those who love our country for all it stands for; past and present. The anthem is respected and revered by those who have experienced the graciousness of our country. We are a nation with a proven track record of helping others help themselves in time of need; whether a disaster or war time.

If you are given the honor of singing this anthem, and it is an honor, we see no reason to deviate fm the words or music written in 3/4 time. Performing isn't about you. It's about you performing an anthem the way it is written to honor this great country. Anything less is a disservice to this nation. Forgetting a word or two is acceptable and if you run in to a memory blank, those listening should help.

We're not interested in people singing it faster, slower, deviating fm the notes or putting on some display that brings attention to them. Those that want respect sing it the way it was written and they do it out of respect.

This isn't too much to ask for the freedom we all enjoy.

We already know the reply fm the newer generations: "This is a free country."

Yes, it is, but not to the point where it becomes self-serving or disrespectful to our anthem or flag.

We believe part of the selection process for singing our anthem should be the singer being qualified and required to sing the anthem as it was written; correct words, melody and tempo.

We would not fly an altered flag and we should not deviate fm the lyrics and music that have been with us officially since 1931.

When you deviate fm the rules and standards expected fm you by the team there will be consequences; sometimes career ending. Think about it.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.963.2444 Fax 218.963.2325

Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com - All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Being "Whole" without the "Holes"

2011-02-03T06:24:00.000-08:00

Being “Whole” without the “Holes”

The game is a whole lot easier when you live it versus having to live it. Life is no different. You, living your life, versus “having to live” life, give life its true meaning. It does matter what you do because you are doing it or did it. You are the only person in this world who can use what you have going for you. Recognize what you do well and overachieve @ it. Overachieve in your asset categories knowing in advance that your teammates will emulate everything you do with a touch of greatness added to it.

“You, overachieving @ what you do best, are the best teacher your teammates will ever have.”

“It's great to be good @ what you do and better to be great; however, being “whole” enhances both good and great.”

As we travel around the world we see a lot of “holes” in “whole”. Are people/players a victim of the false blessing of success? This is one more example of why being “real” is important. Your goal is to be an important part of the reason for any success your team experiences; anything beyond is a blessing.

“We are whole when we become detail people who put aside personal gains for team success.”

Blessings, titles, accolades and clippings are great; however, the affect they have on your daily routine is more important. The best way to predict your future is you creating your future. This makes you more predictable. We were put on this earth to validate and anoint ourselves beyond all other evaluations.

We are qualified to write and say something If our minds, hearts and eyes are open. Our camp philosophy is based on open minds, open hearts and open eyes when working with people. We say, write, critique, mentor and judge others with one purpose in mind; the purpose of making them better player and people. We judge and critique with the serious intent of making people better. We do this to create an awareness of the importance of you acquiring the ability to critique you.
Creating awareness and exposure is no different than losing one game during the season. You didn’t lose the final game. It’s the beginning of you becoming a better you.

“Every child needs an element of growth away fm home.

If our camp is like your home, there is no reason to be here.”

One of your greatest accomplishments in life will be people talking behind your back. They are talking behind your back because they wish they were where you are today. They wish they were you.

If being you is difficult, recalculate and create another, or new, you. Success is directly correlated to repetition of all the little things you do extremely well. Causing others to emulate what you do well is the greatest measure of success. Things can happen, even when you feel you have everything under control, work is meaningful and life is great. All of a sudden something happens and you struggle with an answer.

If wealth and fame are your game, be aware of the perils and pitfalls while remembering all those who helped you along the way. Greatness magnifies what and who you are. Your roots are a part of that. If what you are is all you have, make it be all you need. If you can’t count on you, who can you turn to? This is all the more back up for having three (3) to six (6) mentors outside of your immediate family.
You, playing and working with purpose, being great @ what you do well, make it possible for everyone to be great. Give it some thought.

Playing/working with a purpose can mean a lot of things; however, the original definition of playing/working with a purpose is sharing with and giving to others. Sharing and giving to others is meaningful to those with a purpose and beyond that to the players/colleagues who benefit; whether a person, team, or society. How many people do you know live life with a purpose; run a company with a purpose; run a group with a purpose? They make the world a better place to live, work and play.

• Purpose is crucial to a team and company success: it is the primary source of achievement and reveals the underlying human synergy within the group. None of us stand alone. A high level of synergy between staff members, as well as a group, is as dynamic as it gets. It gives people a reason to work with a purpose and raises the self-esteem levels of those involved.

• There is no such thing as false purpose. People with false purpose get exposed in a heartbeat!

If the ruling values of life are reason, purpose and self-esteem, purpose is high on the list of admirable qualities in leadership, employees and players. It is the driving force in a people driven industry.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.963.2444 Fax 218.963.2325
Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Specialization; part II

2011-01-21T14:31:00.000-08:00

Specialization; its place in Hockey

Joe Ciardelli, strength and conditioning coach @ MHC, teamed up with us on Sports Specific Training as an answer to specializing.

Specific or precise training is the final touches of the never ending training process. Sport specific training is learning how to throw a curve ball, perfecting how to draw a golf ball or practicing your slap shot. Sport specific training helps you become better at one specific sport, however, don’t mistake sport specific training with becoming a better athlete.

In order to throw a curve ball better or take a better slap shot, you need to practice that skill, but you also need to become a better athlete. Becoming a better athlete is really similar for all athletes, regardless of sport. The better your athletic skills are, the better you will become at your sport of choice. If your shoulder, back, core and lower body are stronger, you will throw a better curve ball. Also, if your shoulder, back, core and lower body are stronger, you will have a better slap shot! So why not work on becoming a better athlete?

What football coach wouldn’t want a lineman that has great explosive power? What basketball coach wouldn’t want a point guard that has great jumping skills? What track coach wouldn’t want a sprinter that is lightning fast? What hockey coach wouldn’t want a forward that can change direction on a dime or thoughts in a split second? What coach of any sport wouldn’t want an athlete that is able to do all of the above?

With proper training, all athletes regardless of sport should improve on all the skills of athletic ability; explosive power, first step quickness, lateral speed, strength, stamina, reaction time, balance, etc. These words are used in the gym all the time. They are used in the gym all the time with different sports and different athletes. Improving on these words, improves your athletic skills, regardless of sport.

Off-ice or off-field training is compatible to athletes off all sports. Becoming bigger, faster, quicker and stronger are the objectives of all athletes. These objectives can’t be accomplished without hard work in the gym or practice field. Workouts need to replicate athletic movements. It doesn’t matter if you are a linebacker taking your first step to the right to make a tackle or if you are a tennis player taking your first step to the right to hit a forehand winner.

Improvements happen by completing the right workouts off the field.
Competitions/Games are used to showcase your skills and see how you compare against others. Games aren’t for improvement; practices/workouts are for improvement. Brainerd Warriors High School Coach Jim Archibald says; “In terms of development, one (1) practice/workout is equal to eleven (11) games. If you want to improve on your abilities, then practice and workout more!

Jim grew up in Canada. He is no doubt recognizing the opportunities his son, Josh, has compared to when he was going through the process of becoming a professional athlete. Jim played for the University of North Dakota and the Minnesota North Stars.
Minnesota Hockey Camps has developed a unique training program that works for all athletes by improving athletic ability. This program is time tested and has the results to prove it. The athletes that train @ MHC leave our program better hockey players, but also better athletes and people. Many go on to star in fall sports before the hockey season starts.

Come train with us this summer!

Copyright by Joe Ciardelli and Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.963.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Specialization - Pros and Cons

2011-01-19T09:14:00.000-08:00

Specialization – Pros and Cons

Some maintain (as in the article we read in a Madison, WI newspaper) there is a change in the landscape of prep sports dating back to the early 70’s. In the past twenty-five (25) the era of the three sport athlete has given way to specialization in one sport. Some say it’s happening to pursue college scholarships and professional sports. They are placing the blame on the parents and coaches. “Kids are serving the sport instead of the sport serving the kids.” There are those who say specialization causes burn out, too many are quitting, and that couldn’t be further fm the truth.

We believe “Boring practices, poor mentors, unsolved intimidating tasks, humiliation, ridicule and scrutiny cause burnout. Failure to recognize a person’s assets, develop relationships and reward effort and achievement causes burnout. ”
If all they do is play games on week-ends and/or have boring practices during the week, this is counter-productive, but no one will convince us that twelve (12) fun filled practices and challenging ice times in around dry land, strength training, classroom and shooting isn’t the way to go. It’s all about getting bigger, quicker, stronger and faster while gaining a psychological advantage on your opponent in life. You simply learn to out-work people so the real world is a whole lot easier when your competition days are over. There is no ridicule and zero humiliation.

“We believe hard work can be fun; with courage and boldness instilled.”

We have had athletes over the years tell us how much the camp prepared them as much for life as being an athlete. Their work assignment in life became a “walk in the park” and promotions came because their employees observed their willingness to “live the brand” and log in hours unconditionally without complaining. They learned early on that “hard work is fun” and they learned it in our programs.
We receive letters most every week thanking us for our life preparation program.
Parents asked appropriate questions about our programs. We’ve included a few. If your concern is power skating, most power skating exercises can be done during a ten minute warm-up each day once you have acquired the technique.

We believe you improve the most when you skate the days you lift, sprint, and jump. This ties in all of your muscle groups which have a little different range of motion and lessens the chance of shortening any muscle group that would affect your stride. This also gives you a sense of pride in your commitment and a psychological advantage on your opponent.

If your concern is shooting, you do not need an ice sheet to shoot thousands of pucks.

If your concern is checking, we teach containment which is related to controlling the body and mind of the opponent. Control the mind of the opponent and you control the game.

Concern yourself with compete levels and the technique of containment will suffice.
Add the fun and mind challenging ice times and you have a well rounded program geared to improving any athlete for any sport. We seriously believe our Baseball, Football, Golf, Tennis and Track athletes improve greatly @ our camp. Add in some outside tennis, golf, along with the roller blade opportunities on the trail, dry land rink, and you have it all.

We coached prior to the 80’s and we are still coaching during the summer of 2011 and we always encourage our players to take part in the other sports if they can fit it in, especially if they want to do it. The biggest problem is the coaches in other sports don’t like the cross over idea and they try to intimidate. When is the Football Coach going to admit that our athletes rank amongst the highest in conditioning during Fall Football? They spend more time in the weight room and on the dry land than most Football players who “think” they work out, “think” they train, “think” they have a passion for what they do.

“If your son or daughter can go through our program, and have fun doing it, you have raised a heck-of-a child.”

There comes a time when athletes pick the sport they really like. Some sports are fillers and not as much fun for them. Every kid is different. W can remember letting our Baseball players go to Spring Football right fm the ball field; we encouraged it. Gary Sargent threw the shot put and discus after practice, and won both in High School Track while all-state in Baseball for four years. Sarge thought nothing of going fishing early, playing a little tennis, hitting the golf course, playing Baseball and going on the ice rink all in a summer day’s activity. No one made him do it.

Ralph Lovering practiced his starts with his base running, crossed over during Districts and Regional. He won 1st in the district, 2nd in regional and ran in a state track @ Macalester College the day after winning the Regional Baseball title in Thief River Falls. We know because we made the three hundred (300) mile drive with him right after the game was over. Forget the three sport athlete; they were four sport athletes and summer hockey with the right off-ice training prepared them for all of the sports. It still comes down to becoming bigger, quicker, stronger and faster; not about playing three games on a week-end.

Carl Sneep finished his USHL Lincoln Stars season in time to come home and throw a two (2) hitter and hit a three-hundred eighty (380) foot home run. He played Legion ball and trained ten (10) weeks out of every summer.

Sports, and camps, are as much about instilling intangibles and keeping active children busy as they are about getting a scholarship. This is the point so many are missing. I’ve always felt sorry for the person who went home after school hours and had no activity beyond school, yet schools continue to cut back on co-curricular activities. They must want to see the prisons overflow; which is what happens when active young people have nothing to do. I feel equally sorry for young people who are denied the camp opportunity. This is a totally different intangible building opportunity aside fm the educational process in schools; therefore a must.

“Great mentors and programs embolden people. Boldness and courage levels grow.”

“People need to know how much you care before knowing how much you know.”

We know one thing for sure. The Baseball, Golf, Football, Track and Tennis players that attend MHC show up for their respective camps in better shape than 90% of their peers. We focus on athletes getting bigger, quicker, stronger and faster and we believe that serves any sport they want to play. We also provide enough technical and tactical situations to improve skills.

As said many times, burnout is not directly correlated to specialization. Burnout stems fm poor mentoring, boring practices, humiliation, ridicule and scrutiny. Failure to do well causes burnout, especially when you don’t know how, or not taught, to learn fm failure. Burnout stems fm the inability to take on the challenge of solving intimidating tasks. Helicopter parents cause burnout unless they possess the skills to mentor an athlete properly. You don’t have to be educated to mentor but those who have it you can see it and feel it; it runs right though them.

Today’s athletes are bigger, quicker, stronger, faster, and smarter. They will thin slice and challenge you the second they meet you; they will assess your authenticity and passion for their career, life and game and then text or email results to their friends and parents. There is a good chance of your qualifications showing up on Facebook.” They are more likely to challenge those who lack substance and lack the skills of a true mentor. They read through perception and deception quickly.

Hockey is one of the sports that come under the specialization theory. Those critiquing fail to recognize how much fun the game is to both practice and play. Practice can be just as much fun as games. Whether drills, scrimmages, games or just skating, being on the ice is really fun. It’s the one game where you can have just as much fun on an outdoor rink as you do in a scheduled game. Have you ever been to a public skating session with people fm age two (2) to eighty-five (85)?

People critiquing specializing need only to watch between periods of the Winter Classic, January 1, 2010. Franco Harris and Jerome Bettis, two premier athletes in their sport, two people we love as people, were shooting pucks in to an open net. While accuracy was present once adjusting, check their shooting fundamentals and determine if they could beat a goalie on a breakaway or fm the point in a game. Then picture them on skates. Now, if both had decided to play the game @ an early age, and specialized, our guess is they would be superstars in hockey, also. Just more evidence you need a specialized athlete with specialized skills to play the greatest sport in the world today. Do you want something volcanic and enticing in life? Try practicing and player the game of Hockey.

Those critiquing are failing to recognize the very small percentage of athletes that are born to be there, regardless of what sport they choose, versus the huge percentage that are in the “catch up and pass mode, and will be until they finally catch up and pass. Can you imagine the task @ hand?

Those critiquing fail to recognize the price hockey has paid to be what it is today. Hockey received very little help fm the school systems because school programs were run by football and basketball people who didn’t want anything to do with the sport, especially basketball people. The MSHSL ignored the sport in to the early 1970’s until they found out it was so dynamic they could land lucrative TV contracts. The State High School Tournament was run by the Jaycee programs in St Paul and Bloomington. The game sold itself to the MSHSL.

Arenas were built by hockey groups while gymnasiums were attached to every school. Schools with vision attached ice arenas to schools. They soon found out that hockey was one way to support the rest of the programs. Why? Hockey is dynamic, volcanic and enticing; thus the reason why young people want to spend every waking moment training and playing the game regardless of time of the year. We challenge you to count up the economic dollars brought in to communities by arenas versus community ball parks, football stadiums and gyms. We are quick to say, “We need all of them, but Hockey deserves its place.”

“Mentors capable of creating a great pond hockey setting within a structured practice are in the minority. It’s too challenging and requires skill to teach.”

The game is unique in so many ways that specialization is very important. Players control a puck fifty-three (53), inches or more with a stick in their hands so it’s not like catching and throwing a ball. Skating is much more difficult than walking, jogging or sprinting. Split second thinking is required and intangible levels get tested most every shift.

We’ve always believed that hockey players can play most any sport while athletes in other sports would find it extremely difficult and demanding to play hockey or even go public skating. We can remember challenging an athlete in “horse” our first year teaching in 1964. He was an all-state three sport star in Football, Basketball and Baseball @ Bemidji High School and was very critical of this new sport called, Hockey. We gave him a good go @ horse and then he came out to the outdoor rink in and readily admitted he couldn’t begin to step on the ice with skates let alone play the game. I even let him try to handle a puck and shoot it. That ended all criticism, we had a new fan of the game and he and I had a better relationship in Baseball.

“This split second thinking game is forever challenging the human mind and your athletic ability; this, in itself, prevents burnout.”

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.963.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

MHC Revered and Respected

2011-01-04T09:04:00.000-08:00

Minnesota Hockey Camps

Revered and Respected

There are all kinds of reasons why camps maintain, sustain and build on what they have but there are also some constants that will always be a part of MHC. Memories cultivated @ MHC are memories that will live as long as each camper is able to talk about the experience. The experience takes on a tone of reverence and each experience brought in to the conversation comes fm the heart. In many ways the memories brought up are sacred because they play such an important role in the development of the person.

Whether the relationship between counselors and campers, mentors and campers or the synergy of each work out, each experience is remembered and talked about in a manner that tells you that this experience had a profound impact on each person’s life and career. This isn’t something new. People have known for years that there is no substitute for an element of growth away fm home. They are essential to the growth of any person; young and old.

Bottom line is each camper having an element of growth aware fm home and without the eyes and ears of their parents. They are out of their comfort zone facing challenges and accomplishing things that would not be the same if their parents were standing right beside them. It’s a playground setting that is remembered and revered for a lifetime. We bring the value of the playground back in to their young lives; the playground revered for the pecking order and altering the pecking order.

There is nothing that compares to counselors and mentors who show empathy, desire to share and passion for all they do in life. Young people are content to satisfy those in charge and they don’t have to be a superstar to do it. Self-esteem levels are built through hard work alone. Any accomplishment beyond simply enhances the experience.

Our camp has its own rules; not unlike a supervised playground where young people learn to survive in the pecking order rituals of daily life. The young campers are on their own, out of their comfort zone, and take pride in every accomplishment. This is true if the accomplishment is nothing more than showing up on time to put in an honest day’s work. It all starts by creating the habit of commitment to all we do.

Most young people we meet “think” they work out, “think” they train, “think” they love the game, “think” they have a passion for life and work. It’s our position that we are on this earth to create an awareness of what it takes to critique ourselves and then forge ahead with a purpose and a passion we only “thought” was existent in our daily routine. We do know that one needs a “strict routine” to ensure success and we provide that.

The camp is there to create a setting reserved for the campers and each one takes one or more experiences and channels them towards personal growth; something they are unable to do under the protection of adults and their programs back home.

The camp was founded by Herb Brook and Chuck Grillo, and the legacy of MHC lives on. In the process we are developing success stories within and outside of the game. MHC is a special place, revered and respected for all it brings to any person’s life.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.963.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Holiday Message fm MHC

2010-12-23T11:40:00.000-08:00

Holiday Message

Happy Holidays to you and your family from our Minnesota Hockey Camps family. All the best during the time of the year we have a lot to be thankful for. Sports are a true test of a person's intangibles. Lifetime relationships are developed over a short period of time because of the dynamics of the sport, demands of the job and the people we have the opportunity to meet through our work and travels.

Develop and cultivate as many relationships as possible. Take all the good out of each of them and put them in a memory bank.

If you send your child to camp, and they return home a better player, you will be happy. If they return home a harder worker, better person, with a better understanding of life and what it takes to play the game, you will be happier. We do all that and more. Minnesota Hockey Camps has a way of creating awareness of assets and liabilities. We teach young people the value of hard work that is fun while eliminating blind spots that shorten and stifle careers.

If you had your choice of one improvement, you will want them returning home a better person. This is something that happens just by being @ the camp and rubbing elbows with people who have a passion for life, people and the game.

The game of hockey has people in all capacities who know the value of validating and anointing themselves beyond other's beliefs, words, feelings and evaluations. We learn early on that we control our own destiny and in no way do others validate our worth and success.

We all recognize the need for support systems in every person's life, but it still comes down to each of us just “getting it done”. Keep supporting each other and the results will be dynamic. We are all part of something much bigger than all of us combined; namely each person's life and career. Our wish for this Holiday Season is something thought provoking that enhances our chances of maximizing our unique skills. This costs nothing and ends up being priceless.

It’s easy to judge a person but it takes a special skill and caring person to do something to help others solve an intimidating problem or task.

All of us would like our children to improve so they can move on through the levels. Seeking greatness in your assets is our Holiday Message to you and your family. Along with that, is you raising your level of Curiosity which enhances your chances. Keep asking questions wherever you go; whoever you meet. One of the most important traits of great leaders is Curiosity. This will blend in well with your aspirations. Every year players like Scott Hartnell, T J Oshie, Ryan Malone, Matt Greene, Derek Stepan, Clarke MacArthur, Chris and Tony Stewart came to camp; they would say something like, “You’ve seen me play this year. I don’t want to hear what I did well. I want to know what I didn’t do well and anything I can do to improve.”

Carl Sneep has always sought advice on improving and is now learning how to adjust to pro as the only rookie on the WBS Penguins team. He is fortunate to have mentors who care and know the value of instilling boldness and courage @ the pro level.

Our camp has an attitude. Countries have attitudes (Canada’s hockey attitude), States (Provinces), Communities, Organizations, Teams, Lines, Defensive pairs and Individuals have attitudes. The top one fuels the one underneath and on down. Infectious play of individuals fuels the level above and on up to the top. The USA Miracle on Ice team started out as a collection of good college players and ended up impacting the entire world. They, along with the players we coached @ camps and in high school, are the underlying reason why we enjoy an NHL career.

Winning a game, or a spot on the team, is an attitude. Everything is an attitude. We know communities where young people grow up knowing how to win. There are organizations and teams that go in to each game or a play-off setting knowing how to win. There are individuals who have the “IT Factor” that translates in to performing in critical moments and finding a way to win. Lines and tandem pairs get on a roll and earn nicknames. Goaltenders show a caring level toward their teammates that makes their teammates want to play hard for them.

Our goal is to separate ourselves fm the pack with our unique assets and still find a way to blend in to a team setting by respecting each other’s individual skills. Over-achieving in our unique assets causes those around us to emulate what we do well. This is a team that grows as a team. This is how teams, staffs and departments within a company grow.

“Try to do something out of the ordinary every shift or training session. This builds in to magical and revered memories that ultimately become defining moments in our career and lives.”

Al Neuharth, USA Today Founder wrote, "After 65 you should retire, relax, help others and enjoy it." He says, "Too old and crotchety are risky, but so is young and cocksure."

We say ask questions, sort out all the responses and make a decision. Retirement is nice but maintaining your curiosity level is more important. We want to reduce retirement to recalculating.

Recent observations and circumstances carry more weight, because what you see is what you get. We say and write a lot. We are hoping you have the willingness and wisdom to sort out the good from the bad. This is the way to survive in this world. We only do it to create awareness before problems happen and expose problems when they happen. We have to solve them, because they never just go away. Let’s refer to this as the “Crisis Control and Authenticity Tests” of a human being.

Al says, under 35 - We should listen and learn.

We say listen, learn, chip in with comments and show up on time for work regardless of age. Listening is an ongoing process. Listening is a lost art and a difference maker in winning and losing. Chipping in improves the company culture and performance. Promptness costs the world billions, people their jobs and determines company success.

Al says, 35 - 65 Help run things and look for opportunities to run them yourself.

We say be a detail person, and care about others, before any personal gains. Compete to win. Do this and opportunities fall in your lap. Good people take care of good people, regardless of the situation. Our feeling is there are a lot of good things that will fall in your lap when you work hard with pure intentions.

Personal gains come from respecting unique assets of others and sharing, even if it's a puck. Sidney Crosby and Evgeny Malkin are standard bearers and raise the bar. Sharing stops and losing starts when greed enters in to the equation. We have to guard against it. The way to guard against it is by creating awareness this can happen, exposing problems and solving them. We can’t confuse greed with good greed.

Pass smartly when you should pass, shoot smartly to bury it when you should shoot (good greed is a must if you are going to score with regularity) and carry it smartly only if you have to. The good ones think about who they are going to give it to before they get it. Handling the puck is a given. Adding the word “smart or smartly” to every fundamental and expression of skill will raise the level of performance.

Bottom line, age and experience don’t give you answers. Passion for life, work, people and play does. When we are around people with a passion for life, work and play, we are on a high. It’s fun to be around people who live what they do. They have the will to win and excel and cherish the opportunity to bring others in to their lives.

The Holidays are a time to rehash memories. Life is all about creating memories; magical and revered that all add up to define your life. When it is all said and done, each memory is a special moment. In Astronaut John Glenn’s words, “A final haunting valediction of a person who made the supreme sacrifice and/or those who sacrificed so others could feel comfortable and enjoy a better life.”

This is our camp and life; all about developing people and creating memories while instilling boldness, courage, will to win/excel, skill to get out of yourself and bring others in to your life, the skill to express your skill and the skill to achieve greatness in some asset category. Greatness isn’t about being the greatest. It’s all about doing something great that becomes a memory that lasts forever.

With our economy struggling, we hope we found a way to give you something that didn’t cost all of us anything but time; time to write, read and digest.

We wish you all the best the Holidays have to offer. Take time to give thanks.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325

Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Crisis Control

2010-12-16T13:16:00.000-08:00

Crisis Control;

managing, mentoring, parenting, playing

Hockey is an impossible game to play afraid. It’s a violent sport and things happen out there. You can’t be tentative. If you are, you are going to get hit, and inevitably, hurt. Going hard gives you a chance to initiate versus retaliate. Playing afraid falls in to other categories like: Afraid to lose, afraid to perform and afraid to win. Just play your game, relax, be aggressive, go with your instincts and do what you do best. Panicking in any situation has never served anyone or anything well. Solve all the little problems and you are less likely to experience big problems; probably the best crisis control there is.

Crisis control, in all situations, is paramount. It comes in to play when attempting to make a team, being a part of the final roster, consistently performing day in and day out, coming off a bad performance or benching, coming out of losing streaks and in the play offs under stress. It all comes down to relaxing, doing what you do well and going with your instincts. Confidence in yourself and your team is all part of the equation. Having a trust in those you work for, and play with, is an important part of the equation. Trusting your instincts and your game is part of the equation. It starts with you doing very well without the puck and moves to doing what you can with a puck.

Crisis control starts with leadership; how they handle themselves in tough situations. Five men that come to mind for me are George Gund, eMario Lemieux, Craig Patrick, Fred Shero and Ray Shero; totally different personalities but a similar approach when it comes to crisis control. They believe that winners win and winners express themselves with no panic; and no one hands anything to them. "Just play; just work."

The game is an aspect of life. The people who play it have sons and daughter, fathers and mothers, relatives and friends. What happens out there can be bigger than the game; whether getting hurt or accepting the challenge when opportunity is there. The challenge may be the challenge of making a team, staying on the team, playing consistently well to avoid riding the pine, and going through ups and downs while winning championships. Every community, every organization, every team, every player, every situation, has a different meaning and different expectation. Expectations are in line with bringing others in to your life, talent levels and ability to express your talent individually as well as in a team setting.

The game is easier to play when you are both relaxed and angry. The thought of annihilating your opponent is a good thought and will go a long ways towards helping you survive in the game. Do everything in your power to make them fail. There is no room for gloating @ any time. There is plenty of time to reminisce when a successful career is over and you’ve embraced every challenged you faced.

Crisis control is all about defining the moments faced before they define you. Knowing that some form of crisis is in the future, prepare yourself to relax, go with your instincts and what you do well. Parents fall in to the same category as leaders. Do you pass the crisis control test, parents? We’ve asked all in the past if you pass the authenticity test. Now we are asking the same of crisis control.

Do you pass the crisis control test? You will need it to survive the slippery slope of managing, mentoring, parenting and playing. Childrens' and players’ problems need to be solved before they become a crisis. All problems need to be solved before there is a tragic ending. Taking care of the little problems as they happen averts tragedy and crisis. It all starts by being a detail person with a strict routine; one who cares about others before any personal gains.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325
Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Tribute to Biscuit another Legend @ MHC

2010-11-29T21:01:00.000-08:00

Biscuit; Legend @ MHC

May 24, 1996 – November 29, 2010

Courage – Fortitude – Caring - Special

When Herb Brooks was killed in a tragic car accident, I took time to document everything I could remember about our relationship. I spent about three weeks typing what I could remember. The writing went over 8,000 words.

Biscuit passed quietly away on November 29, 2010. I’ve asked Clairene to type up some memories and I will do my best to recount our life together and its meaning. I will always remember I was sitting in a Springhill Suites @ 0910 in Renton, WA when I received the text message fm Clairene that this precious dog quietly passed away. The text read, “I gave our girl many hugs and kisses fm both of us. She has gone to doggy heaven. I just got home. She relaxed and everything went well. No more pain.”

When I think of different people in my life, I have to include the dogs we’ve had over the years. You get this numbing feeling and then the emotions start to flow. I left the room, went down to the elliptical machine in the exercise room and called Clairene to talk about Biscuit’s last living moments.

I wanted to know about her body, eyes and demeanor. She had to have lived in a lot of pain these past few years without complaining one time; falling down and unable to get up @ times.

Biscuit spent her last moments on a blanket in Milton, FL @ the vet. She has been in arthritic pain for a number of years now and spent the last summer unable to go to the Camp because she was unable to walk up the steps. This alone was a sad moment because she has been a part of MHC for fourteen (14) years. She went every day for seventy straight days as well as days before and after. Her favorite spot was under Clairene’s desk away fm everyone but there was the odd camper she would gravitate to; especially around lunch and dinner.

She could always tell when it was Gringo burger day. She could smell the grill fm her place in the office and she got out of the office as soon as she could because she knew the cook would look after her. Many times that cook was me.

She would wander over to my desk when Clairene left the office or she heard the treats rattle in a plastic bottle. When she came to work each morning, the first thing she did was come and lay under my desk until I pulled out a treat. Once finished, she got up and moved to her favorite spot with the woman she loved as her keeper in the office next door.

She knew we were ready to go when the computer signaled that Microsoft Office was shutting down. She got up to go as soon as she heard the music. She could also tell when the phones were being call-forwarded and got up to leave then, also.
She had inner ear problems and always came up to see if you would rub her ears. She made you do this until you got tired.

I will never forget how scared she was when she was shipped fm Kentucky by our son, Dino. She came by plane and she had her dog cage that we had bought for the trip. Once out of that cage, she refused to ever get in that cage again. It still sits in our garage; brand new, one trip. Dino wanted us to have this dog and I was the one who pushed it. She was taken off the plane, put in our 94 Ford truck and she crawled in to a corner scared stiff. When we arrived @ our home in Lakeshore fm Minneapolis airport, she got out of the car, ran and hid under our neighbor’s car in the mud. I had to crawl under the car to get her out.

It took a while for her to get used to us but it wasn’t long and she was sleeping in a King sized bed every night of her life with us. She came up every night by our pillow, played a while and then moved down to the end of the bed. This was a ritual for many years. She always finished the moment with a kiss for each of us before moving to the end of the bed.

She would always let me know when she wanted to go to bed and I most always accommodated her; especially in her later years when I felt guilty being away all the time.

Then there was Chippy the little Chipmunk that liked to hang around our deck @ home. Chippy was always bugging Biscuit showing up chirping her fm most anywhere close to the deck. Biscuit would take after her and she would duck in a hole. All you had to do was say, “Where’s Chippy and Biscuit ears popped up and she was looking.

She could always tell when we were going church on Sunday. She acted different than when we put our coats on to go out. Once the coats were on she would go over by the treats and just sit there waiting until we got some for her.

She went to Clairene’s workouts up in the garage every morning that Claire went. She would lay there and listen for the Stairmaster to signal the end and then she would goof around on the floor with Claire while she was doing her exercises.

She knew she could wake you up by shaking her collar so she simply got up and then proceeding to wake us up to start the day. It didn’t matter when, she got your attention and I don’t ever remember anyone being mad.

We have two sunning chairs in Florida. She would come out with us. She would wait until one of us got up and she would be in your chair when you came back. It was usually my chair because she was used to sunning with Claire when I was gone. She wasn’t about to move, either.

When camp starts, it will be interesting to see what Luke and Pepper think. Who will finally take her spot under Claire’s desk in the office? The three of them found a way to hang around every day during the summer.

I will always remember our days in the boat together and how she would sense we were coming back home and go to the front of the boat. She did something similar each time we turned on to Birchwood Hills Drive. She could be sleeping and she would get up as we turned and start looking for deer in the road.

We are going to miss walking the grounds with her down in Florida. It is a twenty (20) minute walk around the property. She always hated to go because the little prickly plants were hard on her feet, but she came and all was fine once she got going.

Biscuit was a unique Lab, one who very carefully picked her friends. She was very difficult to get to know and we believe it stems fm how she was treated when born in Kentucky.

Biscuit was one you could never figure out. She reminded me of all the great coaches in the game. They are firm, fair, and loyal to their players and you cannot figure them out; they always keep you guessing. I liked her name because I’ve been shooting a “biscuit” since I was three (3)nyears old on ice rinks. She had the name before she came to us.

Dogs are an unbelievable prototype for all that unconditional love and respect stand for. They stand by you in all situations. They are there wagging their tail no matter what is going on in your mind or life. They epitomize the ability to get out of themselves and bring others in to their life. They literally force you to love them. What a unique skill; something any human being is capable of acquiring and a skill much needed in any locker room setting.

Can you imagine a sports locker room filled with the personality of a dog? There would be more love and respect in that room than anyone could imagine. Dogs unconditionally accept you for who you are and what you bring to the mix. They seem to recognize the unique skills you have and they respect you for it. They respond to any indication of love immediately and they have your back when you develop loyalty, trust and respect in your relationship. While not automatic, it is all there when you work @ it.

We loved her so much that we purchased a small RV called Born Free, Built for Two and Biscuit, to travel back and forth to Florida each year. November 16 to 19 was her final trip and she made the trip like a warrior, even though she was in great pain and struggled to get down the ramp we built for her to get in and out of the RV. She rarely came up between the seats this trip like she did so many times in the past. There were moments, though, when she thought we had some food to give her. She didn’t ask to get up in one of our beds like she had in the past. Something told us this would be her last trip.

I have to mention Clairene’s caring for Biscuit when it came to lotions on her body and cleaning her ears. She was diligent about it and Biscuit had an appreciation for it once the application was over. She treated her no different than she would a child or grandchild and Biscuit never left her side in all of their time together.
Biscuit is one who has taught me a lot about how life should really work. You had to be real honest to earn her love, respect and loyalty. While gone too much in my job, we had our moments where I knew she loved me; especially when she got up in the living room between 2100 and 2200 hours to remind me she would like to go to bed. I loved this yellow Lab. She will always have her place in my life. I will always treasure our relationship and life with her and Clairene.

We left Nisswa on November 16, 2010 in a Born Free Built for Two and Biscuit. We arrived in Florida on November 18, 2010. We are now down to a Born Free Built for Two without Biscuit, but Biscuit will always be remembered for the valued role she played in our lives. There will never a day when I will say, “She was just a Dog.”

Two great side stories involving two of our dogs, Buffy and Biscuit are:
More than once I came home, gone to sleep that night, woke up with my leg hangin off the bed during the night, and asked Claire if the dog could move over so I could have room. Her reply was, “What for, she is here more than you are.”

Another time I overheard her say, “Don’t worry Buffy, he will be gone in a couple of days and we’ll have more room.”

Claire sent the following fm her sister, Carol:

If it should be that I grow frail and weak and pain should keep me from my sleep.
Then you must do what must be done for this the last battle can’t be won.
Don’t let grief stay your hand.
For this day more than the rest your love and friendship stand the test.
We had so many happy years.
What is to come can hold no fear your want of me not to suffer..
So when the time has come to let me go.
I know you will see it is the kindness you do for me.
Although my tail it is the last wave from pain and suffering.
I have been saved.
Don’t let your heart hold any tears.
Our memories I will cherish for all the years.
I will rest in Peace, my friend.
Love you always,

Biscuit

To: Biscuit

While sorry to hear about the passing of our beloved dog, we can sit and go back over the great memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with all who go through this type of traumatic time. No one can ever prepare us for the day we lose anyone in our life. The only thing that gets us through the moment is all the love and caring that comes from those around us; plus the fact we know she knows we loved her during her time on earth.

She passed away realizing we raised a great dog; one who was detailed in everything she did and one who cared about others before anything personal. This is the highest honor any dog owner can receive.

Our love will forever live with our dog, Biscuit.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325
Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com - All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Garmin Theory of Recalculating

2010-11-25T14:32:00.000-08:00

Garmin Theory of Recalculating

We’ve all heard of the Darwin Theory of Evolution. I, failing to reach this level of sophistication, have a new theory. I’ve had the benefit of discussions on long road trips with a couple of colleagues of mine who cause a person to think. We decided to create a new “theory of recalculating to prevent tragedy” and named it after the GPS in our rental car.

We believe in the Garmin Theory of Recalculating. We’ve all been there. Whether a case of getting old, not fitting in, going off course, philosophical differences, losing streaks or just maintaining, sustaining and building on a great experience (career), growing as a player, growing as a person, the Garmin Theory of Recalculating comes in to play.

Being a healthy scratch, or experiencing a prolonged slump, simply triggers the word “Recalculate”. The misfortune of being scratched in a game, or a prolonged slump, is not a whole lot different than going off course on a trip. Your mind should be saying, “Recalculating”.

The hardest part about getting old is watching your value decline as your skills erode. This doesn’t mean you quit trying to make an impact. Simply, “Recalculate”. Going off course as an organization sends a quick signal, “Recalculate”. The picture is clear. The Gamin Theory of Recalculating is the wave of the future and has the potential for helping any situation have a happy ending.

During the course of a few twenty-five hundred (2,500) mile road trips, and occasional twelve thousand (12,000) while looking for talent, one has a lot of time to think. There is plenty of opportunity to go off course. When you do, the Garmin is quick to say, “Recalculating”. One word, a few seconds of recalculating and you are back on course to your destination. Every person, unit, department, team, organization, city, state, nation and world is confronted with this problem many times over the course of a season, span of careers and life of a company.

Much of this has to do with acquiring the skill to navigate through unchartered waters. Once acquired, you basically have what it takes to conquer most any situation. Life, and the game, is a test of intangibles once you reach the skill level required for each level or task.

This is a perfect opportunity to pass the Fortitude Test and get back on course. Even the best are forced to recalculate if they are to maintain their number one position. The perfect example is Heinz Ketchup. How many times have they had to recalculate to maintain their lofty position in the Ketchup industry? They could be satisfied with their lofty position but their R & D department is always taking the time to assess, improve and recalculate.

We get ourselves in a position to pass the Fortitude Test more times than we would like to think over the course of a career and lifetime. When you get back in the lineup, or recalculate your life’s course, you will have added Fortitude to your long resume of assets. You will have the mental and emotional strength, as well as courage, to face difficulty, adversity and uncertainty. You will acquire the spirit to do well in spite of obstacles. You will have the patience to weather the storm.

You will get back on course as soon as your mind recognizes the situation and says, “Recalculating”.

This doesn’t eliminate the need for support people that every person needs but it does give you an inner strength and awareness as we recognize being forced to “recalculate” many times over the course of a career and lifetime. This extends beyond one person to units, teams, organizations, cities, states, nations and the world.

So the next time you, or something you are a part of, goes off course, simply think the Garmin way, “Recalculating”. Think it through, ask questions, seek support and encourage ideas. You will be back on the right course and arrive @ your destination with a happy ending.

If you see someone in need of recalculating, reach out and help them help themselves. If it involves your organization, reach out and make a statement that causes those in charge to think things through. People with high caring levels recognize the need, and value, of “recalculating” and the role it plays in preventing a tragedy; personal, organizational or beyond.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325
Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com - All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Medal of Honor; It's Place In Society

2010-11-21T14:45:00.000-08:00

Medal of Honor for Actions in Afghanistan

Honored Soldier “as humble as he is heroic”

The honor ceremony was both joyous and bittersweet. President Obama gave Staff Sergeant Salvatore Giunta the Medal of Honor while describing him “as humble as he is heroic”. This was the first time in forty (40) years that this honor has been given to a living service member.

The President went off script to say, “I really like this guy.” “When you meet Sal, and you meet his family, you are just absolutely convinced that this is what America is all about. It just makes you feel proud.” If this is what America is about, then this is front page news to me as a Marine and proud citizen of this country.

He saluted Giunta for “uncommon valor” and described in detail how he charged in to Taliban fire to assist a fallen soldier and to rescue another who had been captured during an ambush in Afghanistan on October 25, 2007.

Staff Sergeant Giunta gave a choked up response by saying, “I would give this back in a second to have my friends back with me right now.”

The President went on to say, “You may not believe that you deserve this honor, but it was your fellow soldiers who recommended you for this honor. By charging in to extreme enemy fire, you embody the warrior ethos that I will never leave a fallen comrade.”

Salvatore Giunta responded by saying, “Every single person I was with would have done what I did, possibly even better, but they were doing other things.”

Eleven of Giunta’s comrades fm the battle attended the ceremony in addition to Giunta’s family and parents of the two dead soldiers, one of whom Giunta had risked his life to save.

The Medal is for “unwavering courage” and “extraordinary heroism”.
He was then inducted in to the Pentagon’s Hall of Heroes. Giunta is just the eighth person to receive a medal for service in Iraq and Afghanistan. Three thousand four hundred (3,400) have been bestowed since 1861.

I am writing this to illustrate how far off track our country is fm the day our country was founded for all the right reasons. This ceremony was page 5A news in the USA Today while the paper awarded the front page to former sports icons, alcoholic energy drinks and former high ranking military officers who are overpaid shielded mentors.

We worry about the leadership, financial crisis and where this country is going. We can start by putting everything in to perspective and making the real heroes’ front page news. This is a good start and we can build on everything fm this point.

If you start with honor, integrity, unwavering courage and extraordinary heroism, it’s easier for the rest to come together; whether a country, corporation or team. It’s all about caring levels and helping people help themselves.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325
Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com - All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Hope, Help, Belief, Nurture

2010-10-25T15:42:00.000-07:00

Hope, Belief, Nurture

The word Hope, like all players, needs support. Hope with the words critique, support, help, nurture, belief, opportunity, more nurturing, all sprinkled in, is one of the greatest words in sports.

Words, like people, need support to have meaning. Doses of reality are fine when applied properly.

Hope diminishes as staffs grow in numbers until a staff begins to operate like the great teams that grew because each person recognized the unique assets of their colleagues and it all comes together

Hope, like luck, isn't random. There are support words that enhance chances of Hope becoming aspirations and dreams come true.

Hope, Help, Belief & Love: Four (4) of the greatest words in sports and life. Intertwined they become the most powerful. Hope supported by helping others help themselves creates a synergy in an organization that you can feel and it runs right though you.

Hope is an important part of the equation when you recruit or draft a player. Hope is a big deal in sports. I met a guy in this business years ago that told me he was going to minimize the word Hope in the process of recruiting, scouting and drafting. I listened with an open mind and looked forward to the day we were going to revolutionize the world of recruiting and scouting. I’ve had others since, that I respect, come up with some practical predictability solutions that help minimize but we will never eliminate the word. Most important, let’s find a way to work with it.

Hope goes beyond Hoping the players make it. Hope starts with recruiters and scouts hoping people on the staff have the talent to teach, help, nurture and believe with an open mind, heart, and eyes. Hope is hoping there is a caring level beyond most. Hope is belief and knowing that the recruiting and scouting staff saw something in the player and person worth nurturing. Where would we be without Hope?

If Hope is Belief with a lot of Love and determination, I'm good with that. It will work.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325
Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

AUTHENTICITY; Something Pure and Good

2010-10-11T08:45:00.000-07:00

Authenticity; Something Pure and Good

Everyone likes something pure and good. This is where it starts. I’ve been witness to performances by athletes that I would like to remember for a long time. The one way to ensure this is to duplicate the moment with consistency realizing it just needs to represent all that was pure and good in the moment. This is an athlete that clearly understands the importance of separating themselves fm the group while still blending in to the team concept.

This is one important part of being a human being; making sure you keep the exciting parts of being human present in your life. If this isn’t incentive, nothing is.

There is nothing like an incorruptible athlete that represents an authentic heart, authentic passion and unwillingness to compromise. Hockey players are both strong and fragile when you weigh in what their body experiences during the course of a game. There is nothing like an athlete who loves to play, plays to win and has people responding to their performance. They are not in it for the money; they learned early on that money follows passion. These athletes and performances restore faith in humanity when the value of role models is being tested. There is nothing like a winner who is authentic, pure and good.

When you see it, you can feel it and it runs right through you. I have observed a number of awe-inspiring players when they are @ the top of their game and their performances appear magical.

The Authenticity of the athlete takes it to a level where it becomes as close to a religious experience as it can get. The Authentic athlete finds a way to duplicate with consistency. They are the type of people who feel they are missing something if they miss training for one day.

How many times have you been @ a game where some young athlete does something out of the ordinary that separates themselves fm the group? Are they aware that this needs to be duplicated? Are they aware of the importance of duplication and consistency in their game? Are they aware of what they did to create this magical moment in their life? Will they build on it? Do they have the support system and mentors in place to build on all the good they do? Is the moment incentive to take it to another level? These questions, and there are many more, need to be answered to enhance the process of taking an athlete to their maximum level.

AUTHENTICITY

People with a passion for life and the game are forever looking for something new or something to solve and represent all that is pure and good. They have an authentic heart, authentic passion and unwillingness to compromise. They are always looking for lessons in life and the game. They are the most curious people I know and they never arrive. This is a prerequisite for being a complete athlete and a good leader.

Can you pass the authenticity test?

The dictionary tells us authentic people have a particular way of dealing with the external world, being faithful to internal rather than external thoughts and ideas. This is a pure measurement for great leaders and great athletes.

“What you see is what you get.”

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Professions Greatly Pursued

2010-09-03T09:16:00.000-07:00

Professions Greatly Pursued

They say, "Every profession is great that is greatly pursued". MHC has a purpose beyond the bottom line. We give young people with talent a purpose in life and we create a "passion" for the game; emptying the holsters and using all the passion and fire within you.
It has been proven that people who talk about their mission in life have higher productivity levels.

When you study the minds of the most successful people in the world, a number of things come to mind. These people are only interested in what it takes to succeed. They pay little or no attention to all those reasons why they are not going to succeed. They know how and why and that is all that matters when they chart the course. They become detail people capable of critiquing themselves on a daily basis and they show compassion for others as they move on and up in life. The live life with a purpose.

The high majority select a mate to enjoy life and share the great moments they work for. That mate plays a huge role by allowing them to live their dream or live their life. Successful teams execute their game plan. They tend to make the other team worry about them.

I was fortunate because my wife allowed me to "live my life". I found ways to thank her numerous times. Once I sent her a little talking bear on Valentines Day. The bear responded when squeezed by saying, "Happy Valentines Day. I Love You, Clairene. Thanks for allowing me to live my life." I also allowed her to live her life because she spent a high percentage of her time keeping up the house, raising the kids and running the hockey camp. She made more of a commitment than me to the real things in life. She is the underlying reason for the success of the camp and all the good you see in the kids is an extension of her beliefs and work.

Winning and doing things the right way raises the self esteem level of an entire community and proves one more time why athletics and all those hard fought battles for arenas stand for everything that is right in life. Hockey has been the beneficiary of adversity. Hockey has had to do most everything on its own.

Young people need balance in their lives. This is why we believe that "extra-curricular" should be called "co-curricular". I've always felt sorry for the "kid who went home at three o’clock". This means they are missing out on the most valuable growth experience in their formative years. We've always felt that the school shops should be open for people who are not interested in other activities. This informal type of education gives mentors an opportunity to build on the all-important intangibles in life.

Successful players, like successful people, take risk. There is a positive correlation between risk takers, winning and success in life. They live on the edge, but they know the consequences in every situation so their risk level is calculated. They know the consequences to the team and to their families and lives. Crunch time brings out the best in them. Offensive players become more focused defensively during the play offs. This is why teams that stress creativity on offense step up their game in the play offs. Very few defensive minded teams can step up their offense.

Team members on successful teams are not all intellects of your class, community or world. I taught school for sixteen years. Every student that possessed the foundation of a person, as described in our Template for Success Program, received a "C" or better in my classes. This means that they possessed the unique skills needed to cultivate their talents. Keep in mind that every person has some kind of talent. Test scores were only there to differentiate between "A" and "B" students, so we were striving for excellence in all areas.

Conversely, students testing out with "A" on my tests had to possess the foundation skills to get an "A" in my classroom. While this caused some problems between some parents and me, the student was the beneficiary because they were better prepared to function in their job once they were hired. Most success stories use their educational opportunities to develop skills far beyond tests and the academic classroom. Busy students with balance in their participation develop the skills of time management and judging people. There aren't too many who make it without the help of someone outside of their immediate family. They learn to judge with improvement being the main objective.

Your career and life is the bi-product of your character, class and charisma.

Attending class every day, interacting with your peers and forming adult relationship with your mentors has more to do with your ultimate success than any book. We need a test that tells us what a young person is made of versus what they know. I conducted "Independent studies during my lunch hour when I was teaching. I still have many of the paintings done by artistic kids during lunch hour. These are kids who failed Art because they were not "original" in the teacher's eyes. I was under the impression that doing a painting off a portrait was an unbelievable skill. This style of teaching is nothing more than recognizing creativity and unique skills. I only provided the nurturing that is so non-existent in these situations.

We can not form a set of beliefs about a player before we encounter them as a person. Knowing the person, and what they stand for, allows us to predict success with more accuracy. When we know the thought process and value system of the person we can make some kind of prediction or judgment on the future.

Successful people have the integrity to be honest with others, control their emotions, develop the social skills to get along with peers and adults, marry a person who will let them "live their lives", and they work beyond the 2,000 hours that the average person is asked to work. Is this normal? No! Did we want to be normal? No! Successful people are above what is normal, or average, in life; always seeking more and never arriving.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

World Junior Evaluation Camp

2010-08-20T13:10:00.000-07:00

World Junior Evaluation Camp

I always find it interesting to listen to the beliefs and thoughts of others when I go to these camps. You have people promoting something that isn’t there and then you have those more than willing to “box in” a young athlete who is nowhere near what he has the potential to be.

The latter one concerns me most because I would never want my own children to “buy in” to those who “box in”. Mentors have the obligation to “nurture nature”. Think about it!

Athletes are beyond becoming what you believe they can be, but it’s difficult for them when you are the one telling them what they can be. I’ve always believed more for young athletes for one simple reason. I’m not going to be the one mentor in their life who stifled their potential as a person or athlete. That being said, I am more than willing to teach them a “back up game”, or “game within their game”, that will enable them to make the next level. Every player needs this and in many cases they end up playing this role @ the NHL level.

Suffice to say, “I know a lot of players who could play @ a higher level in the NHL but do not because of a number of reasons. One, someone “boxed them in” along the way and they “bought in”. Two, their lifestyle keeps them fm putting the finishing touches on their game and in many cases causes them to lose even the secondary role they play on the team. Three, having a “clear head” is imperative for your feet and hands to work @ full capacity. Living right, and being proud for doing it, is the sure way of having a “clear head”. Being able to look in that mirror and like the person you see is paramount to success in any endeavor.

Hockey is a physically and mentally demanding sport. Maximizing your strength is a given. Split second thinking @ the quickest level possible is something to work on and requires a high fitness level. Both require proper rest and nutrition. Living right keeps the mind clear and your mind is in command of your feet and hands.

I would want my child to “buy in” to a temporary role on a World Junior Team if the sole intent was him being able to play this role for the good of the team. I would want those in my care to overachieve in the role so others could emulate them. Learning that role will serve you well down the road because that may be the way you earn the respect @ a higher level that enables you to make it to each level. Making the team has to happen before any of us are able to show what we really can do when given an opportunity.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Living the Brand

2010-08-16T13:09:00.000-07:00

Living the Brand

If your life is your business, and every business needs a brand, you better start living the brand! Your life becomes a business the moment you do something to gain notoriety; something out of the ordinary.

Remaining calm, emotional stability @ its finest during the storms, is all part of the internal strength you need while formulating the direction of your brand (life). One way to ensure your brand is going in the right direction is you developing a strictand disciplined routine. Most have no clue how strict and disciplined the routine has to be. Once the routine is in place, you need to find some kind of balance around that routine that includes faith, beliefs, friends and family. If part of the routine is laborious, or tedious, consider yourself lucky because the finished product is the result of all your experiences.

The best piece of advice beyond that is to trust and go with your instincts. This will serve you well in critical moments where split second thinking instincts get you through each situation. Critical moments and game sevens (7) have a way of breaking down basic skills, and simple tactical execution, that are givens. Everything comes down to trusting your game and your instincts.

Being in the public eye is part of being in your life’s business as a player so learn to live with it on a daily basis. The critics are always present. Learn to live with it by building up a resolve reservoir that never empties. Resiliency will become your partner in life.

Suffice to say that being well groomed is all part of living the brand. Once established you are able to create your own identity; what you see is what you get goes on display and it could be totally unique.

Money is secondary to passion because money is the byproduct of the passion you have in everything you do. Money follows passionate people with the ability to express their talent.

When you own a camp, you begin to realize how few realize what it takes to live a brand (your life and career). They have no clue and going on the defensive, when exposed, will only kill the process.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

MHC Mission Statement and Purpose

2010-08-03T08:40:00.000-07:00

MHC MISSION STATEMENT

To be the best provider of hockey training for athletes, coaches and trainers in the World
To operate the company on a sound financial basis of profitable growth
To reach out to players around the world; making the Camp the most respected in hockey
To reach out to other programs that complements our camp experience
To address the needs of the Brainerd Area community through involvement with youth programs and other worthy causes
To empower employees and athletes to “Be As Much As You Can Be” in a nurturing environment which recognizes unique talents of each individual, unconditional respect for the talents of others, and creativity.

We are in this business to create an awareness of training by exposing assets and liabilities. We are the type of people who force you to make a decision on us; force you to have an opinion on what we do. You will pick sides before you finish our program. We do things from the heart. Aside from the pleasure of owning the camp, if our athletes garner inspiration from their involvement, incentive, or find a way to love training and playing the game, if will be great. You will either love us or leave us. Either way; finish one week and you will be more proud than when you walked on to the grounds.

Image may be everything to the person who takes time to build his own, but substance is everything. You get more out of hockey when you use the game to learn more about life. You develop a love for the game where you can feel it. Only than can you act on your assets and liabilities.

If we don’t have an idea that materializes and changes a person’s life, then what have we got? We wouldn't really have much of anything. We can have talks, research, seminars and meetings. If we don’t have a change in the organization or team, we really have nothing. It’s not too often we get to do something for the first time as we get older. Young people give us an opportunity to create something new every day we work with them.

“Commitment to training the way we train prepares an ordinary person to do extra-ordinary things.”

We are a camp that refuses to follow America's trend. We are still attempting to create the drive and desire that used to exist in the majority of all athletes. It comes as no surprise that the sports world is deteriorating when you consider all the wealth and all that is out there for kids these days. They have a lot of choices outside of the playground setting. We are losing the "hungry" kid that used to be able to afford the game and the wealthy feel they can get by with the gimmicks.

Chris Chelios has a son that told the Gretzky boys that this camp is hard, and he is right. Well, the Gretzky boys took everything we had to offer in stride and hopefully they will return for the right reasons. They received no special treatment and they responded admirably. I have a great deal of respect for them and their upbringing after observing them for two weeks.

I saw something in Dean Chelios that made me want him here for 5 to 7 weeks a summer. I liked what I saw. He was a good kid and performed admirably out of his comfort zone. I know in my own heart we could help him because, like the Gretzky children, he has things you can't teach.

We are in an age where kids get too much too soon and we have too many who think they can "buy success". We have too little focus on consistency and continuity. The intangibles are secondary and kids are being misled as to what it takes to succeed in life and the game. We believe our passion, and love for the game and kids who play it, will rub off on the people who work and play here.

Baseball fields are filled with hungry and poor sand lot ball players, but those sand lots are in a different country. Outdoor rinks are a thing of the past in most areas. Structure and "buying" our way is the norm in AAA hockey.

We still maintain the hope that some hungry kid or some kid who has everything going in life but hockey, will catch and pass up the guy who gets all the breaks. We are an underdog camp with a few elite players to emulate. One of the easiest ways to develop a winner without cost is to elevate the charisma, class and character levels of every young person we meet. These are traits that bring more credibility to the game.

Our country is falling behind in most every sport and we haven't been able to figure out the reasons why. It comes as no surprise to me after traveling all over the world and being witness to the different ideas on training.

This camp has the answer, but few care to listen. There is no replacement for quality training time spent working hard. There is no replacement for the combined humor and sweating with your colleagues. Hard work is fun and will always be. Hard work puts you on a path to "Peace of Mind".

When our society begins to once again endorse that concept we will be on the road to recovery. If a player plays five (5) minutes in a sixty (60) minute game, they will play like it is the most important five (5) minutes of their life. We need to develop players capable of creating an atmosphere (attitude) conducive to success. Hockey players contribute in different ways. In doing so, they feel a sense of ownership and pride; all part of being on a winning team.

"Adults and management have a way of stripping young people of opportunity; if only by a rating system." For some, you may get that “one chance” and you better be ready to make the most of it. For others, they can do no wrong. Right or wrong, the pros have less of a support system for their players than the amateurs. This comes at a time when the support system could be the most important thing in your life.

None of us can say we’ve done it by ourselves, no matter what we accomplish in our lives. Supports systems are crucial to our success; whether amateur or pro. We’ve been witness to over twenty-five (25) training camps during our professional career. Sometimes it is the high risk chance we don’t take that gets the attention of management, then there are the times it is the expression of our unique talents.

Every athlete has to take the approach, "If it can happen, I am going to make it happen."

This was the concept our forefathers envisioned when they laid the foundation for this great country; a model for any team to follow. I would guess there are more than a few rolling around in their graves right now; not too happy with what’s happening in our society.

Team members provide an enormous lift to society and communities when they know they are doing something well. When their light shines, our light shines. It matters not who or what you are; you are no different than the next person.

Our camp changes young peoples’ lives for these very reasons.

The word "mission" is very evident at Minnesota Hockey Camps. We strive to have each person have a communicable, altruistic purpose for what they are doing, especially, for their vocation and profession. We consider our life in hockey an avocation. We are on a mission as mentors of sorts with hopes that the end results are Peace of Mind, Stanley Cup, and a legacy such as our camp in the Brainerd Lakes Area. We still have a chance to win another Cup and Ring. We can readily identify with our mission in life. The purpose is much larger than we are and we feel we can talk about our lives as having a meaningful and worthwhile direction.

Camps have been, are and always will be an important segment of American society. They are a place to let the imagination run. We have a plus having ours in a pristine setting. Young people need camp experiences to grow out and away from their comfort zones. A worthy camp will play a role in the psychological, sociological and physical growth of a child, and ultimately plays a role in their successes in life. The camp can play a similar role in any employee’s life. We embrace a family style setting in and amongst the birch, pines and pristine shores of beautiful Clark Lake. We have a rustic setting with the latest in training techniques.

We are aware of what our company can do to improve the quality of life for people like our players, coaches and support staff. We have a quality place to work and play. We can cite example upon example of how MHC’S service made a difference in individual lives. The self-esteem levels of the people involved are raised considerably, we are saving careers once doomed to fail, and we are improving people's life-styles by recognizing their unique skills.We are helping young people find purpose in their lives and careers and we are helping others discover what they have in common to work together. We've recruited people with the right values to carry out our mission. Per person productivity is up there with the best in the business. The employee's attitudes toward our company are at an all time high.

We know we’ve recruited the right people when they are people who take the time to make sure that some person they don’t know, and may never see again, has a great experience and leaves with something more than when they arrived. These are life changing experiences. The desire to want to be a part of this is a true measure of your worth to society and your profession. Our own aspirations become more defined.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Which One Are We? Critique Ourselves

2010-07-29T17:01:00.000-07:00

Which One Are We? Critique Ourselves!

We’ve had a lot of discussions lately about careers, workplace, leisure time, recreation, religion and family. This discussion always seems to surface when we are working about 100 straight days prior, during and after the camp during the summer months when everyone is busy having vacations. Keeping priorities straight while trying to build a career will be a defining moment in most every person’s life. The moment will define, and label, you as an employee or you will define the moment and acquire a great label. I had a good session on the phone with my good friend, Tom Hexum, and we’ve come up with some ideas about work and its place in your life.

The dictionary tells us authentic people have a particular way of dealing with the external world, being faithful to internal rather than external beliefs and ideas. This is a good start for anyone while pursuing a career or multiple careers.

How do you prioritize work and your career? Work – life balance has been an issue for years. Is work on par with faith, family, leisure and recreation or does one have a priority over the other. As a teacher, coach, business owner, NHL scout and executive, I am one who has formed my own provocative opinions during my adult life. The answer is simple for me. The passion for work, especially working with young people, watching them grow and seeing them move on is much more important to me than any of the others. Included in the group are our own children, relatives, children of associates, draft picks, campers, students, future picks, and free agents. Leisure activities, time off and recreation are not on a par with my commitment to my work; not even close. The importance of my work far outweighs anything I do. My faith tells me I should go well beyond my job description and my family benefits more when I do well in my job. So, why not make work a priority?

“When there is work to do, there is no time for other things, but you can find a way to fit some good times in. “Getting it done” is required of anyone pursuing a career and advancement, whether monetary, promotion or both.” They do what it takes regardless of the perceived sacrifice.

The reasoning is simple for me. Work gives you an opportunity to have a better life, more opportunities and gives you a chance to help more people help themselves; including our own family. I’ve always been able to find my share of church, family and leisure activities around my work. Suffice to say I fit it in some way; but not to the max that would be appreciated more by others.

I am witness to all of these young people with aspirations in life and they seem to think everything surrounding work is on par with work. They crave instant gratification. They couldn’t be more wrong. Things don’t just happen. Sometimes you have to scratch and claw your way to success while sacrificing some things you enjoy more or something like faith and family you consider more important.

“Faith based people who fail to go beyond their job description must be reading different scriptures than I’ve read. Faith isn’t a crutch; faith is incentive to enjoy working hard @ what you do or want to do.”

Worst case, you have to make a “real” commitment of some kind and go beyond the ordinary. With 2,000 hrs being the average work year for most, this means you commit far beyond the 2,000 hrs to achieve. 2,000 hrs is mediocrity @ its finest. If you are not interested in being a difference maker, and going beyond your job description, I don’t know how any employer can commit to you. You have no idea the number of people I’ve met that are satisfied to “just do my job”. They are the same people who question why they don’t get a raise and/or promoted.

The great mentors in the world live by the quote: “My obligation and responsibility to you is greater than your obligation and responsibility to me. I will do what it takes and enjoy doing what it takes.” Live by these words, and you end up being the primary beneficiary because people become what you believe they can be. Young coaches get in to the game with the idea of having a great career. Problems arise when their career has priority over those they are working with. This is the opposite of how life works.

Categorizing this situation is easy for me because I am witness to it most every day. There are coaches in the game for their career and personal gain and there are those who are in it for those in their care. Some are in to it for extra spending money; which to me is criminal. The first, even though talented, will have a short career and be scrambling for work. There are too many who fail to embrace opportunity, fail to go beyond their job description and visibly show a caring level to impact others.

Someone taught them early on in life that perception and deception is more important than substance and reality. Some possess all the skills, and articulate extremely well with good sound bites. Others add a great hand shake and look you in the eye just like they were taught. I’ve had too many experiences with this type of person and I am always wary of “articulation, good sound bites, a fake hand shake and look in the eye”. I want to see and feel the substance. I’m not satisfied until I sort it out and it’s time tested.

Mentors are a level up on a coach by a considerable margin. This is a simple choice for me because those putting the players before their career will have better careers. I know I would never be enjoying the career I have if it wasn’t for the players in my life. Focusing on players getting better in every possible way should be the priority and you will end up the beneficiary. The players I coached in my early years are the underlying reason for me enjoying a career in the NHL along with those who were in a position to give me an opportunity.

“I can honestly say I’ve lived every job I ever had and I still haven’t arrived, and I’m a very lucky person. My avocation @ age three (3) is my vocation as I start working my way thru the 70’s.”

It’s always been fun to thin slice people in the profession; whether myself, management, players, coaches or mentors. The players are the easiest because they only need to be difference makers with some degree of consistency, be a “real person”, reach a skill threshold required for the level they play and the mind will take it fm there. Skill to express your skills and skill to get out of yourself and bring others in to your life enter in to the equation.

“How hard is it to be a real person?” There is a difference between a “good guy” and a “real person”. Good guys often times are only good guys who are lukewarm, ride the fence and talk out of both sides of their mouth. They say what they think you want to hear and they lack substance. “Real people” are more likely to take a stand with a thought provoking statement.
The coaches are a little more difficult, but you can see it, feel it and it moves right through the team with regard to their impact on players. The interest and sincerity shown is easy to measure. It is all part of their demeanor, eyes, tone of voice and words; words having the least impact. Once @ this level, they are well on their way to the Mentor level.

Mentors stand alone in this world. True Mentors are very visible and their work is easy to observe and measure. They always pass the authenticity test which puts them a level up on a coach. “The great mentors get angry @ the right things, with the right people, the right way, @ the right time and the right length of time. They should be recognized and commended for this. They embolden those in their care with boldness and courage. They are 24/7 when it comes to all the intangibles required to be a great Mentor and are consistently demanding when it comes to intangibles complementing a skillset. The great Mentors judge people with the sole purpose of improvement as their main objective.

Management is easy to sort out by assessing their caring levels and inner circle. I feel it is important to have business – personal type of relationship because the love, loyalty and respect are always present. There are two winners or no winners. Working in this setting makes work fun; even makes hard work fun. You would probably stay on if you won the lottery. There is no better boss than one capable of creating a positive culture. The same can be said for anyone in leadership roles capable of creating a winning culture.

Work hard with drive to excel; make it a priority and go beyond your job description. Be curious with a high compete level, smart, think things through, and articulate well with good sound bites that are time tested. Back it up with substance and reality and you will be well on your way to a successful career.

People with a passion for life and the game are forever looking for something new or something to solve. They are always looking for lessons in life and the game. They are the most curious people we know and they never arrive. This is a prerequisite for being a complete athlete and leader.

Show us a life examined, re-examined and critiqued on a daily basis and we will show you a life worth living. There is nothing more important than passing the “authenticity test”; what you see is what you get and what you get is a “real person”, one who cares about others, before any personal gains. This internal attribute, being faithful to internal thoughts, beliefs and ideas; will take you far beyond anything external. There is an authenticity test for every position in the game.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Legends; the role they play in my life

2010-07-26T12:59:00.000-07:00

Legends; the role they play in my life

I find it important, when the opportunity is there, to sit down with Legends fm any sport. I had the honor of doing just that on July 25, 2010. Fred Zamberletti, Grandfather of Patrick and Jay stopped in during registration with his daughter, Lisa. Lisa has the same passion for her children, and sports, as Fred has shown during his fifty (50) years with the Vikings. While on their way, she called the camp and said, “I’ve talked my father in to driving up with me fm Bloomington and he wants to meet you.” While it was nice of Lisa, she had it wrong. I was the one who wanted to meet him.

We sat down in the dryland and strength training area to discuss sports; past, present and future. He was especially happy to see the number of players in the gym when they were not scheduled to be there. One player told him, “Character is defined by what you do when no one is looking.” Needless to say, Fred was impressed. He met our intern trainer, Katie, fm Mankato and couldn’t have been nicer to her. They spoke and he was in no hurry to cut the conversation short. The message is clear, “All the great people in our society have time for young people just starting out in their careers. Fred is one who believes all they need is an opportunity.”

The stories flowed all the way back to his time in Hibbing, MN in 1959. He knew every coach in the Hibbing system regardless of what sport they were involved. Names like Herman Frickey, Joe Milinovich, Mario Retica, George Perpich, Frank Bugliosi, Al Rice, Mike Marion, Nick Maras, Cal Sabatini, Matt Berklich and others were all known by first name. He was throwing out all of the names and had even spent some time in the service with George Jetty. He spoke about Don Brose and the great job he did with the Mankato State program.

We talked about the Hankinson family. Ben is here with his two boys and eight others fm Edina. One of them is the son of Dean Williamson, grandson of Murray (72 Olympic Coach) who Fred knew well. He took time to say hi and throw out a few colorful one liners.

I was most impressed by his knowledge of hockey; past and present names and teams throughout the state of Minnesota. We talked extensively about Bud Grant, Herb Brooks and others.

Fred Zamberletti's Biography

Fred Zamberletti enters 2007 with a long and storied history with the franchise and a remarkable streak intact-Zamberletti has not missed a game in the 47-year history of the Vikings, working 948 consecutive contests. The streak includes all preseason, regular season and postseason games in club history.

Zamberletti has earned the respect and trust of countless players and staff during his tenure with the Vikings. In his time with the team Zamberletti has been a friend, brother, father figure and mentor to countless players, coaches and co-workers. When the team held Fred Zamberletti Day on December 20, 1998 before kickoff of the Vikings-Jacksonville Jaguars game, over 100 Vikings alumni turned out to celebrate with him.

To the media he's known as "Trainer for Life." Former head coach Bud Grant acknowledged him as the "Cornerstone of the Vikings" and former General Manager Mike Lynn referred to Fred as "Mr. Viking." The players with respect and admiration refer to him as "The Man." To his friends and compatriots he is known as "The Voice of Reason." Zamberletti was the Head Trainer from 1961-98, Coordinator of Medical Services from 1999-2001 and currently Senior Consultant. A successful entrepreneur and a man of deep religious beliefs, the 74-year-old Zamberletti was a 1st Lieutenant in the U.S. Infantry.

Following his graduation from the University of Iowa he served as chief physical therapist at Hibbing General Hospital in 1959 and head athletic trainer at the University of Toledo in 1960 before joining the Vikings at the team's inception in 1961.

Zamberletti is a native of Melcher, IA, and in addition to numerous professional awards he was inducted into the Minnesota Athletic Trainers Hall of Fame and was chosen Professional Athletic Trainer of the Year in 1986 by the Drackett Company of Cincinnati. He and the Vikings staff earned the 1996 NFL Athletic Training Staff of the Year. In 1999 he earned the Cain Fain Award at the NFL Physicians Sports Sciences Symposium and is an Honorary Fellow of the Minneapolis Sports Medicine Center. Recognized by the governor as an Honorary Ambassador of the State of Minnesota, Zamberletti has also received Minneapolis' Honorary Citizen Award. The PFATS' senior member enjoys walking, bocce ball and cribbage.

Fred was quick to comment when I mentioned the use of the Johari Window in our program. He said, “I find it interesting you bring up the Johari Window. I know very few who are aware of the process for creating awareness and solving problems. I know people who need it badly and have no idea what it is.”

His one liners were one after the other, all tied to affection, loyalty and respect.

I find one common denominator with Legends. It’s all about the passion they have for the sports in general, the passion they have for people, the history of the game and their willingness to talk unconditionally about something they love. We can always learn something fm them because their knowledge and wisdom runs so deep.

I have no problem saying I have a deep respect and love for Fred Zamberletti as a person and professional after just two hours. This is the neat thing about sports. We don’t need a lifetime to develop a relationship. The sporting world is full of short term relationships that last forever. We can always take something fm these relationships even if we don’t see the person again. It’s there, it’s unconditional and it’s priceless. I took a lot fm the experience and will treasure the moment as long as I live.

Thanks, Fred!

We finished the day with Luke and Pepper, Camp Dogs; Piper, Youngest employee; Rob Grillo, San Jose; Dino Grillo, Multi task hockey man; Greg Malone, Tampa Bay; Scott Luce, Florida; Scott Hillman, Independence, MO; Josh Hauge, Fairbanks Ice Dogs; Clairene Grillo, Matriarch of MHC before going home to see Biscuit.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Rachel's Renegades - a truly spectacular group of young players

2010-07-26T07:46:00.000-07:00

Minnesota Hockey Camps with
Rachel’s Renegades
July 18 – 24, 2010

As I am driving back home from Minnesota Hockey Camps, it gave me some time to reflect on not only my past week with the Renegades but back to a time when I worked at Minnesota Hockey Camps as a young girl. Back then, there were only a handful of girl hockey players, Cammi Granato was one of those handful, she now has a picture in my dad’s office with her gold medal as captain of the USA Women’s Hockey Team and is a proud member of the Hockey Hall of Fame. I wondered what it would be like to truly share the Minnesota Hockey Camps experience with my own girls and 25 years later I was able to do just that…my daughters returned to camp when girls’ hockey has now become more of the norm than just a handful.

My daughters and I wanted to take our hockey camp experience and share this experience with other girls and that is when Rachel’s Renegades was formed. Little did I know that the experience and a group of 15 girls would impact my life just as the week had impacted their own. We had a group of eleven girls (nine from Stillwater and two from Alexandria) staying on site in cabin #14 with one den mother (myself) and a group of four Brainerd girls who attended day camp.

I think back and am sure I questioned how these eleven girls would spend 7 days together when many of them had never been away from home more than a day. Everything just fell into place. The girls figured out a roommate plan. Two of the girls made signs for every room and woke up before me on Monday morning to post the signs. No one had much time to miss home as the week began.

The mornings were off to an early start with the daily wake up at 7:00am. I never once had to ask a second time for anyone to get up and they all woke with a smile (I am not sure if the smiles were from the sunshine or the morning song that greeted the girls every day). The nights started with a few later nights but as the week and the hard work wore on, the bed time laughter ceased to about five (5) minutes and the cabin was silent.

Their days consisted of the traditional Minnesota Hockey Camps routine which included two ice times, dry land training, weight training, classroom, stick handling and shooting. There was a small amount of recreational time when the girls spent their time playing volleyball, swimming or rollerblading. Four of the girls used their down time to take the “1000 sit ups a day challenge” and were rewarded by Joe Ciardelli, MHC Strength and Conditioning Director, with their name posted on the sit up wall of fame.

This week was a perfect fit for these girls as they were learning about independence, being away from home and the whole camp experience not to mention it involved hockey, their number one passion. It also included some great mentors within Carolyn Sneep, who plays hockey for St. Olaf College and Joe Blake, their counselor, whose passion for the game was apparent in every day activity not to mention connecting with the girls as a true role model. Caroline and Joe even offered to spend one evening frosting cookies with the girls for a night time snack and a little down time.

When I look back as the den mother of the Renegades, one particular event changed me the most. My Dad (Ole’ Gringo) gave a presentation on his “Template for Success…An invitation to critique yourself”. I wondered what these young girls would take away from such a presentation that he typically addresses to a much older audience. So I went back to the cabin and asked what the one thing they took away from the presentation. The first gal who spoke commented,”I wrote a couple of pointers on my arm. Think big. Believe big. Dream big and big things will happen”. She also commented to “always do something out of the ordinary”. Other comments included “it will be the speech I will remember the rest of my life” and “W-I-N…what’s important now”.

Out of all the comments I hope that the one that sticks the most is what it means to be a “great player versus a great person”. The very best player may not be the very best person and that the person you become can lift you up to exceptional player status when you figure out how life works and what it means to be a great person”. Gringo used a prime example of how Sidney Crosby is both a great player and a great person which ultimately proves his tremendous success in life on and off the ice.

What an honor for me to spend a week with these girls. I truly hope the girls will have this memory of their camp experience for the rest of their life and that they too will someday reflect back as I have done to their very first Minnesota Hockey Camps experience and maybe, just maybe, share the experience with their children. I wish nothing but huge success for these gals…they proved to me that hard work and fun can coincide as they truly begin to figure out “how life works”.

Thank you Minnesota Hockey Camps for a great week!

Sincerely,
Rachel Grillo Rondeau

Rachel’s Renegades…breakin’ down the game one goal at a time.
A group of girl hockey players with a passion for the game and building character for life.

Chuck Grillo's comments: This message is one of those moments that mean more to me than those I write, because this is a daughter having a true life of experience out of love for a group of young players. Her obligation to them is greater than their obligation to her, yet she makes it appear that she is the one receiving the rewards. This make her a true mentor; one who emboldens those in her care. Her Mentorship skills are valued versus feared; and that is the measuring stick for any Mentor. I am a very proud Dad!

It's my belief that every one of these young players will reciprocate in some way @ different times in their lives.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Make-up of a Winner

2010-07-18T15:17:00.000-07:00

Make up of a winner – Make up of a Winner

We care about what we do, work it and live it. Hockey has been a way of life versus a way to make a living. We have been in development for over 40 years now. I lost interest in the fantasy of sports not long after I started because I discovered image through perception was the furthest thing from what is real. I lost interest because I discovered real fast that image through perception was taking over in our society. I was witness to companies failing because people and athletes got caught up in perception and image being more important than substance and reality. Companies are people driven and perception and sound bytes just do not cut it.

Image resulting from substance is what we are looking for. Show people you are on the team for all the right reasons and you can be counted on to be there when they need you. Be respectful of what each player and staff member brings to the setting. This includes being there for your teammates and coaches after your playing days are over.

In my later years I have been consumed by the tragedy of sports, especially in the area of development. We have done the best we can do with the knowledge we have at our camp. As the years go by, we find we need more and more knowledge. This stems from observing both highly skilled and supposedly predictable players, as well as those with a blend of upside and skill, who fail to become what others believe and/or predicted they would be.

Our camp is a value paid, value received experience for many reasons. Our goal is to show a sincere love for the players and those who loyally work for the camp. We try to blend firmness with humor and fun. We are in to negotiating what is right for our players and employees while keeping in mind that discipline is paramount with so many on the grounds. We like to know what players think because this leads to a more positive training atmosphere. We recognize no two people are the same, so our treatment will not be the same. We do know that players who come to us have the potential to be under our care for a life time. “

Our obligation to them is greater than their obligation to us.”

We recognize that a much of what is done in the game today comes from consulting with players and negotiating the things we want them to do. It is in the best interest of both parties to determine assets that help define the role of the person and player. We also recognize the need for a game within their game.

We go through life and change is inevitable. While there is no harm in change, philosophies are updated as we get older. Our attitude changes as we gain experience and learn more. Young people gain from positive changes in our philosophies and beliefs. We can't expect everyone to believe in what we do. Some simply are not interested in what we do and do not want to put in the hours necessary to have a value paid, value received experience. We can accept that, but we still feel the need to speak our piece.

We have continued to preach that open-mindedness and willingness to learn and grow is the right way to go. When we are satisfied, reach a comfort zone, repeat ourselves or fail to progress, we should get out of the development business and do something else.

“Like our athletes, we never arrive.”

We can all learn something about ourselves when we take time to digest the beliefs of others. Nothing about us should be predictable outside of our willingness to learn and get better.

Players are in a position to control only what they can control when you are playing. Don’t worry about how many shifts you get or how your skills compare to other players. Worry about your assets; things you do well. The most important ingredient is preparation because you never know when you are going to get that opportunity.

“When you get the opportunity, overachieve in your asset categories.”

The big message is still, "What do I have to do to take my game to the highest level? What will insure or guarantee my success?" Training properly during the summer months is an insurance policy to succeed and still carries no guarantee. It is human nature to get up every morning to “Be whom and what we are”. We need to acquire a habit of getting up every morning to “Be as much as we can be”.

We like to build a team setting in the weight room, dryland and ice sheet where players have fun exchanging ideas with each other and laughing their way through a work out. We want players to think their way through games, practice, plyos, strength training, jumping and sprinting; to come up with an understanding of why it is all good. I've always been under the impression that we must respect each player's intelligence to the point where players are allowed to think their way through games and training sessions versus simply executing a person's thoughts. The new breed of coach is too domineering. They jump on the 1st mistake versus letting a player figure it out by emulating someone who does that particular skill or play to perfection. They lack respect for players' intelligence levels. This is why Herb Brook’s system was the best for young people who wanted to improve.

Young people have to understand that they will emulate excellence if they permit themselves to emulate excellence.The smart players and teams have players in shape before training camp. The smart player learns to maximize his potential through honest training sessions. This way they get off to a good start. Some are on their way to great seasons and playoffs while other players and teams are still getting in shape.When we talk, we have to know what we are talking about; and I think we do. When we write, make sure we understand what we are writing about; and I think we do.

My relationship with Herb Brooks taught me that it is not all bad to be provocative because it is thought provoking. We have an opinion and we know we put ourselves in a position to attract scorn from people with different beliefs in what we do. This is what makes it all so special. The bottom line is there are too many examples of career tragedies to ignore what is happening right in front of our own eyes. This would not happen if a training regimen was laid out to a point where young people felt it was not only fun but required for success. Your position in the games reaches far beyond your own community.

“Think big, believe big things can happen, keep the rink big and big things have a better chance of happening.”

When I was involved with Herbie, he would always call when he had a new idea. When he was in the mood to talk, I was mesmerized by what he had to say. He was a confrontational, provocative thinker and doer that made you think and respond in a way that fit your own skills. If you listened carefully there was a message in his words that fit your personality and assets. It wasn't about copying Herbie. That is what made him unique when compared to others. If you felt like responding you better be prepared to say what you think and know what you are talking about.Herb had the unique ability to rip and praise you @ the same time if you listened carefully. He understood people and what made each person go. He could have coached in any era because he had the respect of the players. Respect, loyalty and love are all earned. He had a way of earning your respect and loyalty. The end result was love for the man. This is what we are striving for @ this camp.

As I walked by his mural @ the University of Minnesota each year, I stop to say hi in a way only the two of us would understand. I did it when the building was almost empty and I did it both nights I was there on October 27 and 28, 2006 because I forgot a few things the first night. I was quick to point out that he deserved to go in to the NHL Hall of Fame for all the right reasons.I think of all the things we write and say because of our experiences. Many people see what we say and do as a criticism of what is going on in the game and society today. We’ve been accused of bashing agencies and people when all we are doing is attempting to create awareness for the good of any athlete. If awareness and exposure provokes anything but thinking about where we are today, we have a misunderstanding of the meaning of both words.

We are saying things based on our experiences and that is the honest truth. This makes what we say alright because everyone in this country has a right to their opinion. No one has to agree with us but they should respect our right to say it and then decide how it fits them or their child; or if it fits them and their child. The ability to expose and create awareness is the one thing I love most about this camp and my life.We have to do everything with a little flair plus a lot of humor; and things will go our way. I want our athletes to leave this place knowing they have a right and an obligation to themselves to overachieve in their asset categories with charisma, character and composure. They have a right to have an attitude, boldness, gregariousness and a swagger just like anyone else. They do all this by ridding themselves of any and all inhibitions while executing during a critical moment. They also have to understand that doing and saying things, whether great or not so good, sets a person up to be critiqued. Once we show even a glimpse of excellence as a player, or take the time to document our beliefs, we set ourselves up to be critiqued.“Maximizing potential cannot be achieved in a domineering atmosphere.”

The neat thing about being competitive, whether in business or a sport, is the opponent is just like you. There is a great deal of respect for competitors who take their assets to the highest level. You come to realize that these competitors could end up being your best friends after you shake hands and begin to share what works in developing people and players.

We go in to all this knowing we are setting ourselves up to be critiqued and criticized; no different than a player who makes a statement during a shift on the ice. I wouldn’t want to live my life any other way.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Doing Something Out of the Ordinary

2010-07-14T14:26:00.000-07:00

Something Out of the Ordinary

Every time I go to a convention or sports festival, I come away with questions related to improvement. After attending the U18 festival, I have three questions. One, how much time is spent on the mind? How is this time reinforced? Two, why is there not more input fm all the expertise sitting in the rink; whether pro, college or junior? Three, why not invite the parents to all session that are personal growth in nature so they can reinforce what’s said?

Do something out of the ordinary @ any age and your life changes forever. Your life becomes more of a business than it was before this happens. This is a small part of how life works yet young people fail to recognize this as part of the growth process. Seasoned pros are subject to the same scrutiny after toiling as journeymen and then finally doing something out of the ordinary. People impressed by the moment want to see it again.

I’ve been witness to people doing something out of the ordinary many times over my career and I’ve always wondered why they had no idea how to repeat and no idea how important it is to duplicate. We have a responsibility to youth that goes far beyond youths’ responsibility to us. They are innocent, some with a lot of try, which turns out good on occasion. How do we get them to understand the importance of repetition and duplication? How do we get them to understand that once you show something special, people think less of you if you fail to do it again, and again, and again?

Once you show others your “WOW factor” you need to purge, sustain and build on that moment if you want to continue to be the “flavor” or the day. We say purge because you have to focus in on duplicating your effort over and over again; guard against sophistication and complacency setting in.

“We never arrive in life.” Very few athletes understand how this works. If they did, they would have no problem understanding the importance of consistency when it comes to the different levels of performance.

Consistency is an asset controlled by the mind. Mentors have the obligation to spend as much time on the mind as they do on technical and tactical levels. If all you have to offer is, “You need to be more involved, more physical, more energy, you are probably just a coach or something similar; someone with no value and just in charge of the group.”

“There is a huge difference between a coach and a mentor.”

Things don’t just happen in life. If you are fortunate to “WOW” someone, realize you will have to duplicate it if you want continued appreciation for what you do well.

“Doing something out of the ordinary is a defining moment in your life and the moment will either define you or you will define the moment.”

Next comes all the adulation that is a part of people doing well. Parents’ inability to deal with adulation reaches a point where it finally has a negative effect on the child/athlete. Parents need to guard against adulation as much as the athletes have to guard against sophistication and complacency when things go well.

“Adulation, sophistication and complacency kill careers.” Guard against any chance of this mindset surfacing.

Why is it athletes do better when they identify with adults? Answer is: Your life is a business. Business and personal relationships with those in charge are precious experiences that become of part of your routine the rest of your life. Adults are an important part of your life. Every child needs three (3) to six (6) mentors outside of their immediate family.

“Mentors are judged by their ability to instill boldness and courage in those they mentor. They focus on the mind more than the skills; with knowledge that mind skills are more important than feet and hand skills. The mind dictates the level of control you have over your opponent in life and the mind determines how well your feet and hand execute.”

Our good friend fm Denver, Sammy Granados, says, “You have what it takes to get here; do you have what it takes to build on that and stay?”

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Happy With Our Life

2010-07-12T07:41:00.000-07:00

HAPPY WITH OUR LIFE

ST Cloud State Coach, Bob Motzko, calls MHC “the best kept secret in hockey”. Bob, having known our family most all of his playing and coaching career, is one who is qualified to judge what he’s observed over the years.

Our family has our own little corner of the world in the pristine surroundings @ Minnewawa Lodge, Home of Minnesota Hockey Camps, in the heart of the Brainerd Lakes Area. The setting for the camp is addictive and the serenity the envy of most that experience even one trip on to the grounds. This is where we hang out and this is where we like to offer our training services to those interested; whether aspiring professionals or young people on a path to becoming productive citizens. Our circle of friends and associates is very small. Most important of those is our strength trainer, Joe Ciardelli, our only full time employee outside of our family.

We are grateful to those who continue to work with us as coaches and our support staffs are special to us. Some are “lifers” with us and others are passing through hoping to become a better player, better coach, better worker, and even better person. We enjoy being who we are and we enjoy helping them reach their goals and objectives in their personal lives.

We may be “nobodies” in the scope of the whole world, but we are somebody in the real world of countless people whose lives we have impacted along the way. We measure our net worth in 8 x 10’s. This places us amongst the richest in the world and we get to take all of these memories with us. Observing the National Camps for USA hockey during the summer, the first thought entering our mind is how much we could help those who need to put the finishing touches on their body and their game.

We love where we are in our life. It’s a happy place, a cool place, a place to improve all of our lives; whether player, support staff, staff or owners. The only change we need is the continuous change that comes with getting better and the change that comes with the search for peace of mind.

The hockey sports scene has changed considerably over the years but the only changes we’ve made are the upgrading of our facility and the continuous search for down to earth training methods; simple but effective. We are still in to telling young people things they do not want to hear with the hope that they recognize what’s important in life; how life really works. We believe it is all about the journey, keeping your vehicle on the road to success. We are also aware that this is a complex process in this millennial generation influenced by generation X, the baby boomers and the few traditionalists that are still standing.

If you want to be part of the proud, the few, the MHC campers, who leave this camp a better player, and even better person, consider spending some weeks with us. We are a value paid, value received camp with a vested interest in people becoming what we believe they can be. We do it by “helping people help themselves” and we have a way of getting the message across.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

NHL Draft Day

2010-07-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

NHL draft day is a defining moment in the lives of more than just the players selected.

“When a defining moment comes along, either you define the moment or the moment defines you.”

Lots of dreams come true, some dreams are shattered and frustration boils over after hearsay and promises during their draft year. The players are rated on their quickness, speed, shooting, offensive hockey sense, defensive hockey sense, character and work ethic. They all received grades and all that gets tweaked in line with their ability to adjust to all the requirements for performing.

Curiosity that leads to learning all aspects of the game, including history and developing a respect for the game gets questioned. Then there all the words that begin with “C” that will ultimately define each player’s position in the draft and the game. Teams are looking for young people with compassion for others, players who care about their teammates in addition to their career. Teams are looking for young people with the composure to put mistakes and success behind them and those willing to compete with courage and confidence in a play-off setting. These players generally make solid choices and are comfortable in their own skin while defining and trusting their game. Cup champions are made up of players with character and the class of a champion who get it done in a critical moment

Being selected is the end of one journey and the beginning of a new one and should be considered only an honor. Expectations increase and players must recognize the importance of training hard to meet those expectations. They have to guard against any complacency and sophistication that unexpectedly, or sub-consciously, sets in. Maintaining a “chip on your shoulder” mentality versus a “got it made” mentality is paramount to maximizing your potential as an athlete.

The greatest trap to fall in to is the “I’ve arrived” mode which goes against trying to live up to the expectations of an NHL career. It is extremely important to learn about and recognize all the pitfalls. When we see people drafted, the first thing we think about is all of the people trying to get in to the player’s pockets. There are agents, advisers, fitness gurus and nutritionists all looking for a piece of the player. Any agent looking beyond development, both personal growth and physical, is wrong. Then there are family, friends, neighbors who join in on all of the adulation that comes with draft status. Adulation is known to kill careers.

It’s easy to learn fm all the mistakes others have made. Don’t believe that what happens to others can’t happen to others. The NFL did a study and 78% will become bankrupt, divorced or unemployed with two years of retirement. We have to assume all professional athletes are close to that number fm past research. The most important thing to remember is most players don’t get a 2nd contract so they better be on top of what’s important now in every single situation. They can start by being in the best possible condition each year they report to the team.

Their skills will get them in the door and their intangibles ultimately determine their fate. The skill to express their skills, the skill to get out of themselves, and the skill to constructively critique your assets and liabilities all enter in to the equation.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Happy 4th of July

2010-06-30T09:28:00.000-07:00

Fourth of July Commitment to Players and Camp

We would like to express our thanks for your commitment to the players and camp on the 4th of July. This is a time when most spend the day with family and we are fully aware of this. We have been in this business for over 40 years now. We have spent every one of those years at a camp and know full well the commitment it takes. We are proud we gave our time to work @ Bemidji, Shattuck and now the Brainerd Lakes Area.

It is extremely difficult to find people willing to “live a company and/or a cause”. Those of you who find a way to do this should be extremely proud, because it takes a special human being to make this commitment in life. We just want you to know that it does not go unnoticed.

We all know that young people are our greatest natural resource and we recognize that parents deserve a return on their investment. We are convinced we are a value paid; value received camp, but would not be without dedicated employees and the former campers that continue to support our program and facility.

We pride ourselves in respecting people for who they are, what they have been, what they can be, what we believe they can be and what they will not be.

So once again our only parade is the vans going up and down highway 371, the fireworks on the ice and in the training areas. It may be a commitment but it is also a great feeling because we are providing a service to young people who deserve and need it. Training is the one thing going that allows us to catch and pass our opponent in life and the game. All we ask is that you keep the vans around 55 miles per hour so all the passing cars read the logo; the hockey man that proudly represents MHC.

The real purpose of the Holiday is to celebrate the birthday of a great nation, honor our troops and the freedom they continue to protect so people like us can enjoy a “game”. Those who have served, treasure the opportunity and time spent.

With respect and gratitude for your commitment to our camp; have a proud 4th because of your commitment to youth that goes beyond any job description.

God Bless America and God Bless MHC.

Chuck & Clairene, Rob & Carol, Dino & Carrie Grillo, Joe & Sarah Ciardelli, Paul & Jan Elvin – Piper, Luke & Biscuit

LISTENING

2010-06-21T15:52:00.000-07:00

LISTENING

Working Americans who ignore their hearing problems are losing at least $100 billion dollars a year in earnings. Even people with mild hearing loss, who may miss a consonant here or a word there, may lose income if they can't completely grasp the latest news at the water cooler or a phone message from the boss. Losses range from $1,000.00 per year to $12,000.00 per year.

Findings show that this figure can be cut in half by getting a proper hearing aid.

The more I deal with hockey players, and their unwillingness to listen and absorb advice regarding their personal make up, bottom line qualities, technical skills and tactical levels of play, I am convinced that these figures are pale in comparison to those who just refuse, or don't care, to listen. I wouldn't begin to guess the number of careers that are abruptly ended because of a player's failure to listen.

Hearing problems disrupt personal and family life, hamper emotional intimacy and increase the chances of psychological problems.

Similar statements can be made about failure or inability to listen. Team and organizational chemistry deteriorate or just do not happen. Teams become dysfunctional when it comes to commitment to caring about teammates, being a detail person and what is right. Blind spots become more noticeable and grow in number. The feet and hands will not work because the mind is not clear. People who do not listen to what is said, absorb what is said, and then apply this to their game, will not have a good feeling about themselves. They lose the respect of team management and their teammates and they can feel this.

Think about the correlation. If a hearing aid can solve hearing loss problems and ultimately get your life on track, I would have to believe that "listening, absorbing and applying" would do the same and more for a physically fit athlete's career.

Now we have just two "little" things that are easy to do. They are promptness and listening, and neither of them have anything to do with scoring big goals, making great plays, shooting, catching or passing pucks; but maybe they do. They do affect your mind and ultimately your game.

Every person is blessed with assets people can't teach. You are either born with these skills or acquire them from observing players on ice and emulating them. Use your assets to maximize what you already have earned in life and continue to approach life as a "no respect" guy, one who has to get up every morning to prove he belongs where a select few don't want you to be.
I write a lot of things, some of it to learn myself, and some of it to send to others. I would like to share a recent writing and follow up to that writing with you.

We had an athlete that had a super year. We were quick to tell him, "You are having a great first year that is far from over. Treasure the moment and use it as incentive to maximize your potential."

There are basically two types of athletes in this business "no respect" and "got it made". "No respect" and "got it made" people have to have the same mind set if they are to continue on the path to become what they, and others, believe they can be. One of them has a little tougher journey.Never forget your time on the bench or the wait to see if you will finally be drafted by some NHL team. Don't forget where you come from and how you feel about yourself, and your ability, as well as how others feel about you as a person and player. The most successful people in this game stay close and believe in those who care and believe in them.What type of confidence does it take to overcome a coach, scout or GM sitting you on the bench, failing to recognize your worth, failing to recognize your achievements or putting you on a fourth line when you know you are better? What type of confidence does it take to over come any situation you encounter that is similar to this? You will benefit from all kinds of experiences, but I would let the "no respect" mode handle both positives and negatives.

Bottom line is your success comes down to "they believe in you and you believe in them". If every mentor could get this across to their players, there would be a lot more success stories in life and athletics.Players feeding off 'no respect" is an easy thing to do when you have talent. Anxiety disappears when you prepare in life, so difficult situations are easy to over come and you welcome critical moment opportunities to excel. People who have to deal with "no respect" have to continue to prove they belong. They have to train year around and their game goes to unexpected levels because they are always trying to prove something to themselves and others.

This type of person is rarely satisfied because they know that with just one slip people who make decisions will say "I told you so." Why wouldn't a "got it made person" do the same?Coming from where I come from, I believe I've always got something to prove. I've reached levels I never imagined and I want to keep reaching. My biggest reach is "Peace of Mind" knowing I did the best with the talents that the Good Lord gave me to function on this earth. Have I done anything great? No! I've just gone beyond what others believed I was going to be.When I think about young people with a talent, those who are fortunate to have things going for themselves, I think back to all of those who let complacency and sophistication creep in to their lives and game because everything was going right. In most cases it is a sub-conscious thing that we don't even recognize is happening to us.How many times will you hear; "They were at the top of their game and they let it slip?" For this reason, I believe that those who have it going have to have the same mind set as those who have "no respect". They have to wake up every morning knowing that one slip and they could be in the "no respect" category, simply because life has a way of doing this to people. They have to wake up every morning to be what they can be, and they have to guard against complacency. Human nature takes over in the decision making process.

People in charge have their own style of managing and judging you. My wish is they are judging you with improvement on their mind. Once they make that judgment, they are no different than the next person. They will try and prove their assessment of you is correct. Now the road to success becomes more complicated, however, it is possible to prove people wrong. The good ones let you prove them wrong. An announcer choosing one player over another for a position on the team, or an all star team, will do anything to prove he is right. Conversely a coach or GM playing one player over another to make their team or a line will do anything to prove they are right.

Most athletes have to "pay a heck of price" to be what they can be in life. Very few are born to be there. Why would they risk losing what they worked so hard to achieve? Recognizing and appreciating how they got there is one sure way to insure that things will continue to go well for them. Paying a price in the off season is the other way to insure success. I could be pretty well satisfied with my life right now, and I could elect to take some form of retirement. I don't know that I will ever be satisfied with my life or my situation. Sometimes I wish I could change that part of me to make a better life for those around me. This is me and I have to enjoy being me before I can "help others help themselves" enjoy being what and who they are.The key words are "helping others help themselves". This means that no one is giving you a hand out in life or the game, no one is going to do it for you!

Live it and get it done! I think back to each Super Bowl Sunday. If you read all the clippings, there were super stars and great players on both teams, and both teams had a chance to win. I said before the game that there will be a best and the worst player on each team. Will the best be the one projected? Will the worst be the one projected? There will be a winner and a loser. Will the winner be the favorite to win? Bottom line, I would take pride in being the parent of the worst player on either team.There were two quarterbacks. One just happens to continue to approach life as a "no respect" guy even though he got rid of that label long ago. Who would guess that his eyes alone would be the difference between two great athletes? Who would guess that his ability to "look off and deceive" would be the difference in out playing one of his peers and prevailing?

This is just another reminder that sometimes tragedy creeps in with both success and failure. Purging negatives is a priority, but no more than purging positives to stay grounded. Keep the guard up and watch the outcome in future big games and then your career. Remember you were put on theis earth to validate and anoint yourself regardless of the beliefs, thoughts, reports and ratings of others. It will play out!

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email: chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Happy Birthday to a very special person

2010-06-19T12:10:00.000-07:00

CLAIRENE GRILLO

You only have to meet her once to know you are going to like her.

Clairene is the backbone of Minnesota Hockey Camps. She is the one person who has kept the camp going over the past thirty years while the rest of us worked at our various assignments in the game of hockey and we are still working in various assignments. Clairene is the reason the camp enjoys its present status in the hockey world. Chuck said, "She has allowed me to live my life. She's answered the phones 24 hrs a day and 7 days a week, sent out mailings and dealt with the problems so the rest of us could pursue our lifelong ambitions." During the summers she logs in 100+ hour weeks.

Recent years find Dino and Carrie Wood Grillo by her side as well as strength coach, Joe Ciardelli to take some of the pressure off as she enters her “golden years”. Golden they are; because of the commitment she makes for 3 months every summer.

Parents have grown to trust this person with the unique ability to be both warm and firm. They have developed a trust that comes from sending their son or daughter away from home for the first time. Her love and respect for youth comes natural. We are fortunate when we get to meet and work with unique and extra-ordinary human beings. We are even more fortunate when we are able to marry that person. She possesses a degree of common sense that allows her to function on an even keel.

Clairene embodies the MHC Template for Success Program because she has so many of the traits found in great managers and sales people. She has instilled her old-fashioned value system in her children and in those who come in contact with her. Those responsible for her upbringing can be proud. She has carved out quite a career in the hockey camp business. Little did she know that she would make a name for herself while allowing others to live their life. A good portion of her life has been structured toward the camp mission over the past thirty years. While the monetary rewards are not there, her net worth is enhanced because of all the people's lives she has touched.

Please accept this small token of appreciation for what you bring to the mix @ MHC on your birthday. You show a passion for life and work that rubs off on employees. You show an unconditional love and respect for people you work with and those in contact can sense this.

"Raise the bar people make everyone's life and job easier. They are smart, work hard, detailed and caring. They have a way of touching lives and people don't even realize they are being touched. They do a thing that others yearn to emulate and that makes a company or team. Raising the bar is a unique skill, one that many employers come to expect from you rather than recognize.”

You have touched a lot of lives over the years; too many to count. You are the underlying reason for this camp’s successes. You should be extremely proud of your conduct, example, attitude and work ethic. You are one special human being and I love you for it!

Ole gringo

The guy who is always “driving off the grounds”

HOW LIFE WORKS SOMETIMES

Herb Brooks and Chuck Grillo decided in 1980 to bring their Shattuck Camp to Brainerd, MN. They purchased Minnewawa Lodge. They were both on the road so they came to the conclusion that someone may steal from the camp. So they created a watchman position and hired a person for the job.

Herb, being the detail guy he was, then asked, "How does the watchman do his job without instruction?" So they created a planning department and hired two people, one person to write the instructions, and one person to do time studies.

Then he said, "How will we know the night watchman is doing the tasks correctly?" So they created a Quality Control department and hired two people; one to do the studies and one to write the reports.

Then he said, "How are these people going to get paid?" So they created the following positions; a time keeper, and a payroll officer and hired two people.

Then he said, "Who will be accountable for all of these people?" So they created an administrative section and hired three people, an administrative officer, assistant administrative officer, and a legal secretary. He then hired advertising, marketing, direct sales, registration and confirmation people to account for the campers.

Then he said, "We have had this camp in operation for one year and we are $18,000 over budget, we must cutback overall cost."

So they laid off the watchman.

Herb got out because he was afraid of going broke after paying off the other help. Chuck found out he could reduce the budget by another $175,000 by getting rid of the writer, instructor, quality control people, time keeper, payroll person, administration officer, assistant administration officer and legal secretary. Plus, he got rid of the advertising, marketing, direct sales, registration and confirmation people.

Then he found out he needed a person to fill in for the housing director when he was gone, maintenance when he was gone, housekeeping when people showed up late and they were gone, counselors when they shirked their duties, the pro shop when shorthanded and the cooks when they failed to clean the kitchen properly @ the end of the season.

He pushed all the jobs off on Clairene Grillo and gave her any monies left over after the summer. Now, if only she could attend a few coaching, strength training and medical training seminars, she may be able to fill in when a coach wants to go golfing, the strength training coach is overwhelmed and the medical staff is strung out.

Reached for comment on her birthday, Clairene had this to say, "I'm too busy to talk right now. I'm in the process of getting my day care license because all these coaches are having kids and someone has to baby sit them."

You now know the "real reason" why Minnesota Hockey Camps still exists.

CULTURE of MHC

2010-06-14T09:47:00.000-07:00

CULTURE OF MHC
Thoughts after visiting with one of our former coaches:

You’ve been away a while, you came back and visited, and you probably found that our values and mission is the same as it was when you came on as a high school kid and worked as a dish washer to earn your keep. Training is still fun, work is fun and the people who commit to us are great people because they have a love for the game that goes beyond a normal job description. They are the type that ensures that the next generation will have a passion for work and the game.

The Culture of our Camp is subject to change because people “grow out” of our company and new people join, however, the one thing that has remained a constant over the years is the Culture. We are still in the business for the good of the staff and our athletes. We still get our kicks out of people moving on and up in life and the game. This isn’t a blueprint. This has been happening for over forty (40) years because it is our life’s mission tied in to a company whose employees and clients are all on the same mission in life; simply better people first, then players and productive citizens. This is done in a highly productive collaborative working environment that has been in place for years. We’ve always been proud of our passion for the game and feel we’ve done our share of passing it on to our staff and down thru the different generations.

We are proud to say that the Culture of MHC has been formed by some dynamic people over the years. We provide a purpose and direction with company character. Our staff and clients learn to appreciate all that the camp stands for and all should have no problem resurfacing after adversity.

“Purging negatives and positives (prominence) is a skill and way of life for those who succeed. We call it a Goaltender’s Mentality because they excel @ this skill. Chances to redeem/repeat are a priority. I’ve reached the conclusion that purging successful moments, and building on the golden moments, is more difficult than purging negatives. We tend to live off, versus build on, the good things a little longer. It’s easier to rid ourselves of things we don’t like.”

We are in the process of reinventing the company to stay in tune with the new generations of clientele. We are going to make a better effort to mentor those who work with us so we can build on the legacy and culture developed over the past thirty (30) years @ MHC. Our Template for Success has had some WOW times when presented over the years. It has always been a “work in progress” and we are working @ making a better tool out of the Template.

The rewards fm working @ MHC usually are moving on and up in the game and life. This is our primary objective and we do it with the wish that those rewarded think enough of our purpose to send new clients our way. Money is not the motive; this is something that evolves over time. Pro athletes understand it better but we are certain the same as happened with our staff and other clients. As owners, we believe we have always stayed connected to the world of those who work with us. Our goal and wish has always been a better life for all who work with us and we continue to work hard to make that happen. Leading smart is one way to ensure that all who come here are respected for their contributions and that gives them incentive to contribute.

Our Pastor made an interesting comment @ church service on June 13, 2010. He talked about what we call the “skill to step out of yourself and bring others in to your life”. If our life is mentoring, this is far more important than any X & O system people refer to, and something we’ve done unconditionally prior to our first whistle in practice. There will be no X’s and O’s if we are incapable of reaching out to others for all the right reasons.

We’ve had more than our share of employees who came to MHC with the idea of sharing their ideas and growing in a group that cared about each other. This gets extended to those in their group. It’s easier to do what we did yesterday, easy to wake up every morning to be who we are. We’ve always found purpose and meaning to urge others to become what we believe they can be. Great mentors embolden people. MHC has a value system for training that is unmatched in our society. This isn’t a statement. This is something that has been lived for over thirty (30) years @ Minnewawa Lodge. We have walked the talk and the words. We’ve always believed that work here has been satisfying, rewarding and fun. Learning to work hard can be fun and rewarding in a world of mediocrity resigned to forty (40) hour, or less, work weeks. Those willing to pay a price, and laugh their way through it, find it easy in a world of fast bucks, easy bucks and quick fixes. Values learned and passed on are incentive to sustain and build on everything we work for.

We are in the business to build a better person and player. We have developed, and redeveloped, a Template for Success program that will serve our employees and clients now and in the future. This defines the character of MHC and those who have, and will, work here.
We believe in giving unproven people opportunity. Our coaches are hired because of their ability to adapt to management as well as the players, personalities and level of play they have encountered @ every stage of their career.

We like strong leaders, a successful person, one who can sell the training and the game to the players. It’s all about a “system” that takes in to account the personalities that are dealt to the coach. This is totally unlike the word “system” we are used to reading about; and some coaches even brag about. While I see a high tempo, energetic game being the way the new breed likes to play, I’m assuming they like to be aggressive and up tempo in both games; offense and defense. Yet, it still comes down to actual people; each individual player is an actual person reacting to your ability to build a team with the assets they bring to the team as well as the respect they have for each team member’s unique skills.

We have talked about “talking with” vs “talking to”. It’s never been our way or the highway. It’s always been, “We believe every person has unique skills that can add to the character and identity of a team.” When we mention team, it could be the MHC team, the team we coach or the team during the regular season. This unique skill of stepping outside of ourselves and impacting others is found in those with a very high caring and sharing level. They do it unconditionally and their careers and legacy continue to grow every day they adhere to these principles. This will show up @ some point with both players and coaches and will ultimately determine the level of success. “Winning starts when sharing and caring are viewed as a prerequisite to being part of a team.”

Clairene and I know this is how we’ve lived our life together over the past 40 years, especially the 9 to 10 weeks every summer over those 40 years, and I am one who believes we will leave a legacy equal to most anyone who made athletics a way of life. What I’m saying is: “It works and we end up being the beneficiary when it comes down to all the memories and internal wealth one acquires in this profession. The neatest thing is we get to take it all with us when our life’s journey is over. This is our wish for everyone who ever sets foot on these grounds.”

“You don’t have to be highly skilled, rich and famous to leave a legacy and story to tell. The truth lies in the success stories @ MHC.”

The “skill to serve others”, “skill to step out of yourself and bring others in to your life” and “skill to express your skills” are three unique skills that are acquirable. They are three new and exciting ways to enhance the Template; things we’ve done but never took the time to describe it.

It’s about exceeding expectations after they sign up for a camp they have heard, or read, about. It's about going beyond your job description. The consumer has to feel our passion for what we are selling and this is done through caring and sharing. We always talk about value paid, value received. Our goal is to give them more than they paid for. If we do something wrong, we will make it right; starting with an apology.

We empower our staff to do things within the guidelines of our Culture. One good measure of our personnel would be how many people would stay on and work if they won the lottery? We know we would not only continue the legacy; we would kick in monies to upgrade the facility and programs.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights are reserved. No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

2010-06-06T13:16:00.000-07:00

Smart, Hard to Play Against, Hockey:
How much can we learn and when do we stop learning?

People with a passion for life and the game are forever looking for something new or something to solve. They are always looking for lessons in life and the game.

“Given a choice, without training or direction, your mind will take the easy way out.”

The 1st two games of the Stanley Cup finals in 2008 are a prime example. The Penguins will be thanking the Red Wings for teaching them a lesson they will never forget. Now guarding against a Stanley Cup Finals hangover is paramount and history tells us change is inevitable.

The lesson is the fine line between a continuous search for respect and peace of mind that ultimately is the difference between winning and losing. Both Cup Final teams have quality players from top to bottom. Each has unique skills that contribute to winning. The only differences in the games are smarts, mind set, timing, and execution.

Given a choice, we all want to coach a very angry, mean, nasty and upset team with talented people; people who know how to use their energy and talent smartly. Having distaste for your opponent is acceptable when you are going after the top prize. If players do not get passing marks in these categories, you have the wrong players on the team. Every struggling player and team should start with being angry because of their situation.

Both teams had talent, work ethic, energy and enthusiasm that are infectious and competitive players who are hard to play against. The best teams take it to another level. The word smart gets thrown in to the mix and that word is applied to every aspect of the game. Place the word, “smart or smartly” before energy, anger, mean, nasty, take outs, draws, hitting, tandem play, hard to play against, detail people, puck movement, open lanes to the puck and keeping the rink big in all three zones; any facet of the game you want. The level of competition is so tight that finding a way to execute is paramount to winning. The young PENS had it, but this was their 1st opponent in the play offs that requires a team to excel in this area in order to beat them.

There is a benefit to playing on a great team with great players, but those same players still have to smartly get it done. It still comes down to using your smarts when you experience intense, fast thinking situations. Time to think about something gets reduced when you get to the finals. Time to think gets reduced when teams start gunning for you because you were in the finals or having a great season. This is a reason why there are only two teams left. There are more players totally focused, more energy with more attention to detail, smart enough to think quicker on their feet in any situation and they have no fear when it comes to playing angry, mean, nasty and upset.

Space and catch up passes to areas your teammates are reading to jump in to may be the only way to get open and back on the attack in transition because there is so little room and the energy level is so high. Passes to yourself off the boards, when you are out of options and room, are split second reactions that allow you to keep control of the puck and the game. Races to loose pucks have to be won or the opponent separated fm the puck. 2nd effort to loose pucks has to be unmatched.

Clearing passes are a skill and executing properly protects leads and gets you out of sustained fore-checks by the opponent. The new rules on icing mean you will be out on the ice with fatigue setting in. Block fatigue out of your mind when you go in to the face-off in your own end.

Smartly dumping the puck is a unique skill, one anyone can learn to execute. The end result being sustained fore-checks, shots on net and goals.

The Finals have a way of exposing each player’s personality, smarts and zest for life. Those that excel have been waiting for this opportunity longer than they thought and they are able to put the pedal to the metal. The “IT Factor” comes in to play. There are people in every setting who just have the “IT Factor” and a sense of humor to go with it. They have “IT” when it comes to execution under pressure. They have the skill to express their skills.

“Special players crave the stage to sing their song and they try to sing it better than the last time.”

When the Stanley Cup finals are over, there will be one winner. There will be four to six more teams saying, “We could have won and this is how we could have won.” The great teams learn as much from the other team as they learn from their own. My wish was for the players on the young Penguins to win the Cup and then thank the Red Wings for a valuable lesson in Games One and Two of 2008. They challenged you to beat them by showing you how to beat them. My 2nd wish is to guard against the hangover and loss of lessons learned when you play in the Final.

Hockey is still a game that older people play. When he turned 52, Gordie Howe said, “I’m a fifty-two (52) year old adolescent playing a kid’s game.” When I see the smiles on the likes of Sidney Crosby, Evgeny Malkin, Jordan Staal, Ryan Whitney after a great play and goal; and Marc-Andre Fleury after a gamer save, I see happiness because of sharing before any personal gain.

Maurice Richard, Jean Beliveau, Chris Chelios, Ron Francis, Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux; and countless other gifted players make sure the word “fun” never leaves the game. This is how teams are held together during the tough stretches. The lesson here is,

“Being overly serious can be counterproductive. Learn to laugh @ yourself.”

Rob Blake tells a former college teammate that the 2008-09 edition of the San Jose Sharks is the most fun he has ever had in hockey because Joe Thornton spends so much of his time having fun with the team. When he signed for millions of dollars Scott Hartnell’s brother said, “Now he will never grow up.” The will to win remains one step ahead of having fun because there is no more fun than winning.

I am one that believes that “caring levels” ultimately dictate the success of teams. Defining roles and eliminating agenda driven people is a priority. This includes players’ support groups.

There is no spot in any locker room for the timid or weak minded player. The Cup Finals were games that the PENS needed to play in, games to learn from; but isn’t this true in every setting? While it would have been great if the guys could have gotten a few early on the power play, playoff series will still come down to “smarts” and burying “critical moment” chances, because all the other intangibles are a given.

Study the opponent and entice the opponent to do what they like to do. There should be some space behind hitters when they step up. I don’t know if that space is behind them or in the spot that was vacated by the player covering for him. The center forward or strong side wing covered for him, so the opening is usually on their weak side wing. Well coached teams fill in well for players. Is it possible to exploit the desire to crunch people? Entice him in to stepping up and make the space pass that can give you the odd man rush. Easier said than done, because I see they are good @ filling his spot, but great players know what is going on around them. Enticing him in to a hitting situation is better than him surprising you with one. One hand drop, with a space pass, allows the puck carrier to throw him off his rhythm and you slip the check.

The hits on Jordan Staal and Ryan Malone got me thinking about this only because I have a deep respect for their ability to think smart and fast in a split second.

The draws are huge and Pittsburgh had a couple in the dying minutes of the early games. This was nice to see because the draws are slowly getting to the 50% level. Most draws are sawed off, so smart team play dictates the success ratio.

Go to clips of pucks being stripped or players eluding checks. Go to the clips of players gaining the shoulder, taking the hands to the boards and stripping pucks off each other. This fundamental is what we call a “100% take out” and it wins championships. Putting a player through the glass is not nearly as effective against the great teams as frustrating the hell out of your opponent. Great hits (hard hits in to the glass) don’t come close to the psychological victory for plays of this nature. Change of direction may be more effective in combating their fundamental take outs.

There have to be a couple of clips on boxing net play guys out that would prove valuable. Goal scorers showing up right up on time in receiving/shooting situations is something everyone can appreciate and emulate.

WIN stands for what’s important now. Think of situations where two players meet and go down on the ice. Who got up first? Who got back in to the play first? Who forgot about a hit, broken stick, check, bad call, icing with no change or loss of a puck the split second it happens so they can get back to what’s important now. Everything is a race. It’s a race to get up quicker when two people get knocked down.

Detroit is a fundamentally sound team and I believe the biggest obstacle is matching and surpassing their smarts when it comes to the fundamentals of the game. Their take outs are close to 100%, draws are an advantage for them, they keep the rink very big when they have the puck in all three zones, and they time finding the seams as well as anyone in the game. The PENS can do this; all players can do this.

“Control the opponent before you even think of getting the puck. This way the puck is yours. Control the opponent’s body before you think of the puck and you win all confrontations and play with their mind. Control their mind and you win the game.”

Mindset, anticipation and execution are paramount. Anticipation makes you look quicker and helps you solve any situation first. Championships are won when combined with attitude, swagger, mindset, infectious play, gregariousness, boldness and killer instinct.

Shoot smart and recognize the consequences of shots that are easy to catch or in to the mid-section versus low shots that are uncontrollable and lead to rebounds and sustained fore-check.

The “givens” are both teams have talented, enthusiastic, infectious and competitive players who are hard to play against. The stakes are high for both teams and @ a point where they bigger every day they come to the rink. Teams and players learn to live with reward for gaining recognition, notoriety and getting to the finals.

It all comes down to the “IT Factor”. Certain players have the “IT Factor” under control when it comes to critical moments. Some players want to and can be “IT”. They know what’s going on around them, they figure out their blind spots, and they, “Get IT done”.

“Team power fuels star power. You need this to have your top players firing on all cylinders.”

The Cup resembles a playground setting with a pecking order. If you don't like the pecking order, the setting is there to change it. Rules are reduced to guidelines and players get paid to outwork and outperform their opponent with no regard for who they are or what they've accomplished. Players accept the challenge and set out to prove they are better than the next guy. The Cup mirrors life. Aren't we all paid to outwork and outperform our opponent in life? Great win for a group of guys who don't show any quit in them and appear to be relishing the playground setting where there is no room for the timid or weak minded player. Makes you want to bring back the old playground setting where kids grew up learning how to survive on their own in the toughest situations. Something tells me the PIT players have some playground experience and are interesting in altering the 'pecking order'.

Little things caught my eye as the series went on and on. There are more catch up and space passes by DTW than I'm used to watching. Is this coincidental or by design? Area & space passes are effective because there is no room out here tonight. DTW is running in to more pucks than I've ever seen. Must know where they are going with it.

Company attitudes change people. I don't remember certain players as detailed and hard working guys @ age eighteen (18). It's a race to get up quicker when knocked down in this series.

Something must have caught my eye to mention this. Passes to yourself when there is no other pass to buy time. Head swivel and reaction time to loose pucks is all about anticipation, quickness & mind set. Everyone has bought in on PIT according to coaches; nice to see. Players’ sticks are good lessons in terms of getting pucks off people without getting a pim.

Icings happen. Get the fatigue factor out of your mind if it is on your mind when you have to ice the puck and stay on. Gaining the shoulder is paramount, especially when smaller players are going against bigger players.

Are you making sure on getting pucks out of the zone on PK, etc? This is a given for a pro and very important fundamental. The clearing pass all of sudden becomes one of the most important fundamentals. High shots are cherry picked so we are better off with rebound type shots fm off angles that lead to sustained fore-checks. Where is the controlled distaste for the opponent? Long shots have to be uncatchable, 2nd effort to loose pucks has to be unmatched. Gain the red line extended; cannot compromise on this.

DTW minds get to loose pucks as much as their feet. When you get to the level where you are worried about what the other guy is doing, you are done. PIT will have to go fm student to teacher if this series is going to be turned around. I believed they would and they didn’t. One year later (2009), the student became the teacher. What happens in 2010? What lessons are learned? How does smart hockey go to smarter hockey?

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights reserved.No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Former Camper and His Thoughts

2010-06-02T03:34:00.000-07:00

Subject: A very thankful camper

Minnesota Hockey Camp Staff,

As a young hockey player I began attending Minnesota Hockey Camps to improve on my goal-tending technique. As I got older I returned to hone my technique and build my athleticism.

Near the end of my five year summer pilgrimage, the trip was merely to reunite with friends and respected mentors. Since the end of my high school education and hockey career in 2007 I have not returned to the beautiful camp in the woods I loved so much. Instead I turned my sights to a different pursuit; college. I entered with a goal in mind; to apply and be accepted in to veterinary medical school in three years,(opposed to the typical four). This past February (my junior year of college) I received an acceptance letter from the University of Wisconsin Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine. I accomplished my goal knowing four years from now I will enter the career and lifestyle of my dreams as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine.

Reflecting on the past to learn and prepare for the future I examined the summers I spent sweating, bruised, and exhausted and realize what I really learned from Minnesota Hockey Camps. The lessons that counted the most did not involve hockey; instead they taught hard work, goal setting, persistence, passion, self critiquing and so many more qualities which develop not just good hockey players, but good people.

Now I appreciate these lessons and continually try to analyze myself with respect to these lessons just as I did every week filling in numbers on a pyramid. These lessons have been keystones in my pursuits and will continue to influence me for years to come. In saying this I would like to thank all of the camp counselors, coaches, dinning, maintenance, and cleaning staff with which I interacted with during my stays at Minnesota Hockey Camps, special notation going to Chuck Whalen, and Toby Kvalevog; two great goalie coaches and one really great fisherman.

I would also like to give a special thanks to the Grillo family, Chuck and Clairene, for their foundation of a phenomenal camp; and Rob, Carol, Dean ("Deano"), and Carrie for carrying on a legacy of great hockey and great development. Thank you all for your passion and the great experiences which have helped, and will continue to help, me develop into the person I am; and the person I want to become. -Kevin Kicker

Caring and Sharing; Foundation for Success

2010-06-01T14:30:00.000-07:00

Caring and Sharing; the Foundation for Success

I just received a message fm one of our parents who spends time with us during the summer months because he cares about the future of his son and has developed a caring level for others competing with his son. He wrote a number of things but the beginning intrigues me the most:

Chuck,

I just wanted to drop you a note to thank you for sharing your thoughts and comments whether on your blog or on Facebook. I enjoy reading them all and look forward to seeing the next ones. I can relate to so many of the circumstances that you describe from my time as a player. He went on to say how he thinks about all of the things he could have done better.

My comments are simple:

I find it interesting you write this to me because I’ve been giving some thought to writing a blog on me not reaching my potential as an athlete and in real life. I don’t believe any of us reach our true potential and there is no better example than me. While it’s easy to rationalize, the plain and simple truth is we have all these unique skills and rarely maximize them. Most of us look back and are more likely to add the words “think I’m”, before critical words like curious, studying, working hard, training hard, sprinting hard, skating hard, playing hard. How many of us want to, and know how, to be a difference maker; go beyond our job description?

We have no way of knowing unless we find ourselves in a setting that WOWS us and opens our eyes to what is real in the sport or life in general. We need people to teach that perception and deception are deterrents to what is substance and reality. The biggest obstacle to overcome is thinking that simply showing up @ work, skating and playing games is going to do it for you. “I just do my job” doesn’t cut it.

When you know what it takes, and don’t apply, the rich only get richer. Those born to be there will be the beneficiary with less competition fm peers. I know superstars in the NHL that are performing well below their potential and I feel for them every time it gets played out in front of the world on TV or @ a game. None of this has to do with the skillset. They are obviously @ a skill threshold far beyond what they need. Most have blind spots that need to be exposed, and constructively critiqued, or they will never max out.

The pecking order can get altered real fast, especially during the Stanley Cup playoffs. Rules become guidelines in a playground setting that is as close as it gets to the old playground with no parents around. All you had was a group of kids, two leaders picking teams, and they always seemed to be able to pick them in the order deserved. It has been interesting to go back over our careers and see how it all played out. The fun ones are the last guy picked being the huge success story in life. The equally fun ones have been the leaders staying grounded, because of their upbringing, and maintaining the gap. I’ve been witness to more than my share of careers with an unhappy ending and even some that failed to get off the ground. I’ve also been witness to so many becoming what we believed they can be the first time we saw them.

Our camp is great for all ages but the results start coming in fast after puberty kicks in. Prior to puberty is a great time to form the habits we need to be successful. Once puberty kicks in, we already have the love and passion for training and work. All we need to do is in place. Improving gets to be easier and fun. I sincerely believe hard work is fun because I watched my parents working hard and having fun. My Marine Corps experiences taught me how to do things I never dreamed I could do and I am forever grateful for my time in the service.

The results get magnified when young people receive some sort of indication that they are good, but only if the results are incentive to work harder. Unfortunately sophistication and complacency “rule” in too many lives that experience success. Perception and deception creep in over substance and reality.

The key is you wondering what you were thinking when you describe a situation where you were sub-standard and didn’t know “what I was thinking”. I wouldn’t want to even venture a guess on how many times I’ve asked, “What was I thinking?” This is the necessary fuel to help others become what you believe they can be. I believe parents will always want more for their kids than they had @ the same age and they want them going way beyond anything they have ever accomplished. They want their experiences to be the reason their children do not make the same mistakes. They want them to have a better life but the smarter ones know better than to do all this @ the “hand out” levels.

All experiences are what they are; experiences good or bad. We are told to put bad experiences behind us. I believe we should put all experiences behind us. I like to call the bad experience part a “Goaltender’s Mentality”. Goal tenders are taught in the early stages of their career to put all bad goals and games behind them immediately. They do not dwell on the past. Why wouldn’t we all have a “Goaltender’s Mentality”? When you think about it, why wouldn’t we put all experiences behind us immediately after they happen; both good and bad? This will guard against complacency and sophistication and prevent the tragedy that surrounds good and bad experiences. Great experiences are supposed to be incentive to do better.

I find it real easy to “care” about our offspring. The “caring” that really counts to me is the “caring” that is visible when you really don’t’ have to “care”. It is easy to care about close knit friends and family. This is why Minnesota Hockey Camps is so dynamic. The standard of training your mind and body to be what we believe you can be is in place. There is no compromise and the only requirement is to come on board. You have a standing invite and license to “join our group”. Our goal is to create awareness by exposing assets and liabilities.

We even have a Template to follow that supports our beliefs and we do it unconditionally for all who attend. Our “caring” level extends far beyond friends and family. The “inner circle” has no limits. We become a part of the Board of Directors needed for you to have a great life. Your life is no different than a Corporation. You are Chairman of the Board for your life. There is always room for one more around that huge conference table you draw on a sheet of paper and we have no problem asking a non-contributor to give up their seat @ the table. You will need all of those board members as you move through life because there comes a time when your immediate family cannot help even though they are on the board.

The end results are even more friends for MHC’s extended family and more who grow up learning the value of “caring and sharing”.

“Be a detail person, one who cares and shares with others, before any personal gains. This foundation of a person will take you as far as you want to go.”

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights reserved.No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Solving the Riddle of Your Self

2010-05-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

Solving the Riddle of Yourself; not an easy task for any person

This was written while, "Sitting around one day thinking of draft picks that are a part of my life whether they want to be or don't want to be." They were drafted because they are smart, talented and they "had it all going" as a high school or junior player. I do a lot of thinking about campers, potential draft picks and free agents that I care about. Build on what you have, keep reaching and climbing. Success is "right around the corner". Be quick to recognize how others see you compared to how you see you.

One person sees a player as a finesse player or numbers guy in his position and another sees him as a power forward, stay @ home defenseman, grinder or support player. We have goalies with all different styles. The player ends up saying, "I don't know who I am." Bottom line; it's good when you can play multiple positions, multiple styles and fit in for the good of the team. People have different views on the words work ethic and compete levels. Do you think you work and compete or do you meet the thresholds required for work ethic and compete levels set by others?The search for "who you are" has a better chance of being solved when you have a backup game or "game within your game" that buys you time. This is usually a game that makes you hard to play against and mistake free, a game that will always support your "A" game during your development years. Training beyond imagination brings you closer to solving who you are because you gain that psychological edge against your opponent in life knowing you worked harder than they did to be who you are.Some coaches/scouts/managers learn from their experiences as players. Triumphs, trials and tribulations as young players have given more than one coach/scout/manager a different, and very healthy, perspective in the way they approach and handle young players. The majority of those who faced more than their share of adversity and confusion lean toward the approach of no expectations, dry erase board with some guidelines, and the freedom to play and express their unique skills. They recognize the unique skills of a player; they develop a relationship, and reward them properly.

Some coaches have an open door and they hear you out, but they don’t listen.The smart leaders develop leadership groups that meet regularly with management to improve communication and develop trust. Patience and problem solving are always possible in this type of environment. Teams get “back on track” quicker after going through bad stretches.
Most young people are naïve, some have too much too soon, and some develop relationships that take away from their game. The best relationships in life are when two people empower each other to be what they can be. Relationships should enhance careers. Some players party often, and too hard, while success steers their subconscious mind toward sophistication and complacency. Some are misled as to what it takes to "be a pro; a professional person and player". Some go through a divorce setting with their parents. Some use the divorce setting as a crutch to cover mistakes and underachieving, while the divorce really this has nothing to do with it. The stable ones look @ divorce as a situation where, even though a divorce can get ugly, they have a chance to have two sets of supporting parents down the road. "Old wounds rarely heal, but success helps you to forget and your success could be the underlying reason for healing during a bitter separation."

Most players face very little adversity coming through the system. They move on to junior, college and pro where people make a living picking their personal makeup and game apart. Scrutiny becomes more intense during a player's draft year and the years after they are drafted. If a player feels tired, he is no doubt suffering from all the scrutiny and adversity. Players fail to solve the "riddle of themselves" when they fail to see the importance of "just being yourself, competing and playing hard with composure and confidence". My son, Dino, says it best in these situations. His best answer to a bad situation is "just play and everything will fall in place. Talk is cheap and worrying is a waste of energy, just play the game.” You have a “free interview” every night you are performing on the ice. The hockey world is small and word gets around quickly.

Players are fortunate to have gone through some of this scrutiny during their early years to prepare them for what is coming @ some point in their career. Hopefully they go through enough during their early years to recognize that the scrutiny, adversity and confusion they went through will serve them well in future years. Most players have yet to experience what it is like to have their game and personal make up "picked apart". They would have to do something “out of the ordinary” first so there is a higher level of expectation and accountability.

One of the biggest mistakes players, mentors and managers make is not taking a risk to avoid making a mistake; however, learning the consequences of each risk is paramount. The bottom line is there are very few successful people in life who are not risk takers. You don't play/coach/manage/ mentor to not get second guessed, you don't play not to lose. You train, practice and play to win.

Most players don't see the difference in their conditioning level until they get themselves in better shape than the year before or they are in a setting where they can readily see others doing a certain exercise far better than they do that same exercise. This can be on ice or in an off-ice setting. Awareness and exposure are necessary components to development. Reaction levels to exposure and awareness are different for every player. The bottom line is "what are you doing about your deficiencies that will enhance your assets? Are you over-achieving in your assets categories"?

Any athlete, coach or mentor is @ their best when they are like the joyous, carefree little guy, with a zest for life, playing on an outdoor rink, that doesn't worry about making a mistake. Don't ever lose that vibrant “ninth grade personality” where everything was new, fun, vibrant and an adventure in to the unknown. Put mistakes behind you and recognize where you are today in the game knowing that your real game will come if you keep working hard while waiting for your physical growth to meet your coordination. Get in to goal setting, etiquette, communication skills and developing a support system that you can build on as your career and life evolves.

I've learned through the years that one conversation, email or letter to a young person @ the right time can transform a life. This is why I keep writing and talking to young people. I do it with the sincere wish that young people buy in to what it takes to be a "real person and real pro".Pro players who work with young kids, and develop charitable foundations before they are established, put themselves on the line to be even more accountable.

Try to find some time to work with kids in the youth program. You will find that your sub conscious mind will copy most every thing you tell them and you will start performing @ a higher level. Working with young people teaches you to "give back" and you learn early on that there is more to life than hockey. This will enhance your game.Once your life is on display everywhere (internet, media, TV) it's going to have its effects.

You have to watch what you do, what you say, what you wear and you can't necessarily have the best time. There are situations when you want to let loose and have fun, but you can't. So you suppress it. Eventually it creates an alter ego and you'll have situations where guys end up doing something stupid or out of the ordinary. You have to guard against this.It is great to have players who bring their own edge to the team. Do this and you will find that edge will start to appear on your teammates.

You are @ your best when you play with an "edge"; a little "dirt" in your game. Players, who study the game, define their role and develop a game within their game, have more success in any team setting. The good ones learn to separate offense from defense knowing they have to be good @ both. They learn that when one is not going good the other can support their career.In the end, it's the players who are "real people" who end up creating the fiber of the team; not just the player.

The same goes for new buildings, locker rooms and uniforms. It's not the building, locker room or new jersey that makes the program; it's the people; the people that administrate, manage, coach, support staff and play the game. We were put on this earth to "validate and anoint ourselves beyond anything people write, say, believe, report or think" by maximizing our unique skills and managing our liabilities. There is no room for mediocrity.

When you reach a level where you want to be the best you can be every single time you step on the ice, you have reached a level reserved for special players. This type of player wants the puck and they want it in critical moments. They want to be on the ice when it comes time to shut down the opponent.

Have a great career, and send me an update by text, email, call, or all of the above. Keep working hard; stay intense and you will see a lot of good things happen in your life. The strong survive in this game.

I enjoyed typing this because I know deep down the good that can come out of communication. That gives me a special feeling inside; just knowing I took the time to do something out of the ordinary for a young people I care for. It's an easy way for me to build my "net worth".

Hockey brings me a lot of joy. The rink is the one place where I can be myself, and have peace with myself, because I’ve learned how to have fun and express myself. There is no bigger thrill for me than watching a great athlete, or team, develop the attitude, swagger, gregariousness, boldness and killer instinct; the joy of watching your opponents in life suffer. This is the last puzzle piece when “Solving the Riddle of Your Self.”

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights reserved.No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Helicopter Parent - A Positive Role

2010-05-13T07:29:00.000-07:00

Parents; over involved, posturing, standing in the way;
Going beyond their responsibility and obligation? Our feeling is that this is not all that bad.

Welcome to the Millennial Generation; a generation full of life, creative, innovative and searching for both a meaningful life and meaningful experiences.

This is a tough one. There is a difference. While it is difficult to describe an over involved parent, I do know this, "When you meet one, you know you just met one." Over involved parents have a way of turning people off but we have come to understand why they are what they are. There is nothing wrong with making sure your child is having a meaningful experience conducive to growth as a person and skill level. This is good when kept in the proper perspective. We encourage parents to observe what their child is going through our program, especially the dryland involving plyometrics. How else would we be able to promote our program in an age where parents decide where there child should be when in search of becoming a better person and a better player? You can readily see where your child fits in the group as well as the needs.

The new age group of players has moved beyond Generation X, Baby Boomers and the Traditionalist of our era. These high tech groups of young people make up the fastest growing segment of players and workers ever. Mom and Dad are showing up to make sure everything is in order and the athletes are texting, emailing and cruising the internet. They are asking more questions about something having a purpose and being a meaningful experience.

We are ready to accept that challenge and urge young people to experience our program to ensure they are ready to “make a difference” in everything they attempt to do, however, we would like to do this without losing our "element of growth away from home" concepts.

These young people are demanding a quality program in a stimulating environment that serves a purpose for them now and in the future. They want to know that everything we do is meaningful. They want to know who they are, how do they fit and how they are going to get there. They are fm families where they’ve been told, “If you are going to do something, then do something that will benefit you both now and in the future.” This is exactly the role MHC has filled over the years and we have the track record to prove it. We go beyond the game and we do give young people an opportunity to make a difference @ an early age in our diverse programs.

There are times when it is easier for a young player to make a difference in a dryland or strength training session than on the ice. Each experience fuels the other. They learn quickly how to play a meaningful role. If they do not excel in any of the exercises, there is still enough for them in each experience to feel good about what they’ve accomplished. We rarely have a young person fail to improve as a person and player.

Our practices and dryland programs are sophisticated and demanding enough to challenge any person, and this eliminates any reason to burn out. The idea of doing what it takes in any setting is enough to build self-esteem and stimulate the mind. We encourage the use of cell phones, texting and emails because we want the positive buzz about the synergy @ MHC, but we want it done in a constructive manner; never interfering with the training process. The time to text, email and use the Internet is early in the morning before breakfast and later @ night when the training is finished. Guidelines have to be in place to have some sort of structure with regard to losing items and paying attention to detail while training.

Meaningful experiences have a way of giving young people a huge competitive and psychological advantage on their opponent in life and the game. They learn that competition is great and giving 100% can raise your self-esteem level. Our feeling is the positive buzz about our programs will create more interest in MHC. We find it tough for young people to “make a difference” if they aren’t trained, schooled and given an opportunity to “make a difference”. Intangibles acquired, once they reach a required skill threshold, are invaluable and will ultimately dictate their success.

When we speak of intangibles, we are referring to an attitude, swagger, gregariousness, boldness and competitive instincts that provide you with the skill to express your skills. We all need to learn to smartly compete with zero inhibitions and a will to win. This will enable us to solve a lot of problems in life.

The helicopter parent has now assumed the role of teacher, coach, mentor and friend of their offspring and this is here to stay for this generation. We don’t fight it, but we also recognize the value of 3 to 6 mentors outside of the immediate family and the impact they can have on a young person’s life. MHC is willing to assume this role and be an extension of the parent. Young people are now asked about interests, desires and talents. The idea of talking to and telling has been replaced by “talking with”. Coaches and parents would be wise to recognize the value.

Sports and hobbies are approached differently than when we were kids. Young people are programmed to prioritize. This doesn’t mean less fulfillment. This simply means that young people are striving to insure success. MHC has a responsibility to contribute. Loyalty, engagement and respect are still a priority and it’s our job to assume that responsibility as well.

We assume the responsibility of helping young people make a difference, make them feel they are contributing by rewarding their efforts and ideas, respect their creativity levels and listening to their comments. The new wave isn’t interesting in doing what anyone can do. They want to be appreciated for their success levels achieved. They are accustomed to being measured and MHC wants you to know that those measurements are in place. Our goal is to take those measurements to a level where each athlete can constructively critique their efforts and results because we will expose both assets and liabilities.

The rewards for achievement do not have to be costly. Praise is an ample reward for effort and a job well done. This is also a generation that has been hand fed, so failure has more meaning to them. They have been protected fm failure which is why MHC can play an even more important role. We are a “dry run” for experiences that will happen in real life. It is far more important to have these “dry run” failures that don’t affect your life and have the meaningful experience of critiquing your shortcomings and improving. This will eliminate the possibility of any tragedy that is lurking.

Our programs are focused on young people having the freedom to express their skills without having the burden of losing a game because they tried something out of the ordinary and this has been in place since the camp was founded. Our feeling is they will be able to refine and define their game by teaching them how to constructively critique themselves while eliminating all the blind spots and inhibitions that stifle success.

I don't know too many coaches who want a "2 for 1" deal where the parents, sometimes grand parents, come with the players. This is a fine line in this new age. Coaches appreciate the parents who support and believe in the program through the good and bad times. There is always the case where the player is so good that the coach is willing to put up with the side show. This is not meant to give you an out because we are talking about a very small percentage.

Mentoring and parenting all comes down to providing opportunity, creating awareness, recognizing assets, managing liabilities, problem solving and being able to tell your athlete, “Just play; have fun, do something out of the ordinary and try to make a difference.”.

We were all put on this earth to validate and anoint ourselves regardless of what people say, believe, write or think about us. Posturing, lobbying and 2 for 1's have no place in the equation. There is no entitlement regardless of your situation.

It comes down to "dealing with the hand you are dealt". I don't care if the perceived wrong team, in your eyes, drafts you @ any level. Take your poison and learn to live with it. It's in your best interest to "go where you are wanted". History shows that players succeed when the coach believes in them and they believe in the coach. There are a lot of examples out there of young athletes whose parents felt that a certain program wasn’t in their best interest. They would spend a whole season lobbying to get somewhere else. When they get there, they lobby to get them on the “right line or defensive combinations”. There has been more than one case where the team they didn’t like went on to win their division, league or a National Title. There has also been more than one case where they would have been a 1 -2 guy versus a bubble guy in another setting. The 1-2 guys have a better chance to develop.

Every time a parent overly protects their young athlete from adversity, they create more problems than they solve. Young people have to accept the fact that adversity is here to stay. Protecting a child from any adversity is delaying the inevitable. Hiding from adversity @ a young age will make it difficult to cope with adversity in the future. Life is a series of dry runs, semi dry runs and then the “real runs” when adverse situations pop up in your life. The more you accept the challenge of staring them down the better off you will be in the long run.

“Life is an adventure in progress. There are days and nights when all is great and then there are days and nights where……..

I could make a list of high school, junior and college teams when I think of programs poised to turn out as many professional athletes as the name programs. They are programs that are giving young people an opportunity to catch up and pass their peers in life and the game.

I vividly remember the years when our own children moved away to play, whether @ camp, junior or university. We remember receiving calls and listening to them vent. We were left to fret while our children vented. Then they ran off with their friends and had a good time because they were able to vent while we were left to fret and worry.

Bottom line: The parents’ role should be to provide every opportunity and work towards raising a competent, competitive and a confident child, with composure to put a bad mistake/game behind them. They will receive scholarships and/or get drafted/signed as a free agent if they are good enough. The new process begins when that happens. First, the players have to define their assets, what role they can play as they go to the next level and then try to excel @ that. Once they do that, they will be asked to master their trade. All of these players go through the same process. The problem is awareness of who and what you are and who and what you can be. Some players want to excel and a more select group choose to master their trade. Hopefully your child has a will to excel beyond this level and then the rare will to master and perfect the tools of their trade and what others believe they can be. Our job is to make them aware of the process by showing them how it works. Expose problems and help them solve them; because they never go away.

The biggest problem is most players 'think' they want to excel and master their trade, they “think” they train hard, they “think” they have a passion for the game; and are not aware of the process of how to go about doing that. If they did, more would contribute on the NHL level or @ least raise the bar of the organization. MHC has a way of creating awareness and exposing this in our athletes with the primary goal of moving on and up.

I will always believe that any child in a setting where credible adults get to know them (no better example than our camp), will generally get what they have coming to them. They will get the necessary exposure and then be recognized by others who care about their future because they made an impression with their skills and intangibles which are difficult to read just watching a game.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights reserved.No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Guideline for revealing mortal side

2010-05-12T10:13:00.000-07:00

Guideline for revealing “mortal” side

It’s no secret that outbursts revealing your “mortal” side tarnish your image and reduces your production. Staying calm in adverse situations when things aren’t going your way is a skill that every player needs in their arsenal. There is no need to cause people to think you are something you aren’t and certainly no one wants to be known as a whiner.

The playing field is more level in the playoffs, rules become guidelines that are stretched further than normal and the compete levels go to yet another level so it’s easy to find yourself in a situation where you feel you are being treated differently than during the regular season. I believe there are a different set of rules that govern the playoffs. This is caused by compete levels going to another level as well as referees feeling the players should decide who wins; not them. Referees want to do a perfect game no different than players.

The only adjustment is playing smarter in every situation. Playing smarter is the key to success in the playoffs whether it’s adjusting to the referees, execution of fundamentals or team play. The smarts level has to be raised. If players appear to be getting away with holding and grabbing more than the regular season, your only reaction should be to back off, release, spin off and keep playing. Players have to be smart enough to recognize what they have to do to keep themselves focused in to what really matters; the game and winning.

It’s good to assess the philosophical side and go over some common sense things like:

The word WIN means, “What’s important now”. If there is a non call, bad call or goal scored by the opponent, your first thought should be, “What’s important now?” The answers are to keep playing, kill a penalty or get the goal back.

Competitors act; fools react.

Maintain a clear head so your feet and hands can do their work. Common sense says, “Cluttered minds eliminate execution by the feet and hands."

It’s all about being focused and happy throughout the journey; and not about where you want to be @ the end.

The way to address referees will always be as important as how you play. Your knowledge of how to talk to referees is as important as your knowledge of how to play the game. If you feel the rules are being stretched, simply say, “Look, I’m being held in situations I’m not accustomed to. Could you please give it a look and tell me if I’m out of line or right in my assessment? You will get nowhere when you yell and cuss @ them.

Opponents look to find ways to rattle opponents; especially the star players and weak minded players on the team. They know they can’t beat you without getting you off your game. The goal is to agitate, get rid of your focus, in any way possible; physically or verbally.

All you ever need to understand is every game, every season; the team and organization are all more important and bigger than you. This allows you to disengage fm anything that may be upsetting you and ultimately the team. This may seem like a small issue in the overall scheme of things, but sometimes a bit of a difference is the difference in a game of emotions and inches.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights reserved.No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Textbook Hockey

2010-04-26T14:58:00.000-07:00

U-18 Textbook Hockey

Good things happen to good people, and they continue to happen for those with a passion for life and the game. This is why USA U18 coach, Kurt Kleinendorst, is enjoying a gold medal with his support staff and players. Some, like Tim Taylor & Scott Monaghan have been @ it a long time and enjoying the fruits of commitment. Others, like Joe Exter, John Wroblewski, Cole Bassett and Brock Bradley are younger and bring a youthful refreshing outlook to the game. Joe’s work with the goaltenders should be recognized because it is visible.

Textbook game, textbook line rushes, textbook puck movement, textbook team defense, textbook goaltending and textbook story on the value of development when pursued in the proper manner and setting. The coach, entire staff and players are a tight knit group that worked and played for each other.

They learned the value of sharing and caring while playing hard and the rewards are apparent. I was one who observed their maturity level just seven (7) months ago to this moment in the Minsk airport. This is now a group of young men that realize their young lives became a business before most of their high school friends would ever begin thinking of their young life as a business. This happens to all young people who work to gain notoriety.

I can't remember liking a team any more than watching this group. Congratulations to a group who are now linked for life. I have seen some equal, like Pittsburgh with Dan Bylsma and staff in the Stanley Cup last season, but no better coaching job or team play as I witnessed in Minsk.

Now is the time to guard against the sophistication, complacency and tragedy that has a way of creeping in to success stories. We're hoping this is incentive to continue going beyond your job description in your career and real life. Maintain a chip on your shoulder mentality and recognize we never arrive in life. This will prevent anyone fm boxing you in.

This group is unconditionally looking for someone to share the puck. They are an extension of the head coach, one who grew up caring and sharing while being a very detailed athlete before any personal gains.

We've known Kurt as far back as we can remember when he was growing up in Grand Rapids, MN. He is still the same Kurt, one who knows and values the words humble and grateful for the privilege of being part of the game.

If you go back to September, when this team was assembled, there is clear evidence of players validating and anointing themselves beyond the beliefs, reports, thoughts and ratings of the hockey world in general. The pecking order has changed dramatically and that will prove itself out @ the NHL draft and again and again up to the time this group is 25 or 26 years old if the players persevere through all the scrutiny and adversity.

“There was a beginning and you are somewhere in between and all that matters is the end.”

The team had their share of heat seeking missiles capable of answering the bell if someone wanted to play a game of intimidation. Kurt loves this team and each player’s value to the team was huge. Some led the way in hits and others emulated as they overachieved in their asset categories. This theory held true whether it was infectious play, sharing the pucks, making plays, scoring or executing in a critical moment. Each player overachieved and all emulated each other to the degree possible. This is how the game should be played and this how games are won and championship teams are built: People sharing, whether pucks or information; people emulating those who overachieve in their asset categories during critical moments throughout the course of the game. Teams doing this grow together as a team.

This is what life is all about: validating and anointing yourself while possessing the skills and willingness to express your skills with zero inhibitions; outworking and outperforming your opponent in life.

This was another one of those momentous occasions with great lessons on how life works, people improve and organizations win together.

Russia seemed to move more toward star power as the tournament progressed. Their team was quick to fade in to the sunset. Sweden had a team game that mirrored USA and was good enough to make the final game a game of inches; a worthy and respected opponent who needed to make more breaks for themselves. Like the USA they had performances that put the pecking order to shambles. Finland once again won Bronze with their team game and earned the respect of those in attendance. This Finnish group is a team of underdog overachievers and an extension of a small hockey nation with immense pride. Canada was two goals short in the Swiss game and that stripped them of any opportunity to build on their hockey tradition.

This opens the door for a new kid on the block to walk through and challenge for hockey supremacy. An attitude, swagger, gregariousness, boldness and competitive instincts can make that happen. –Ole Gringo-

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps, 24621 So Clark Lake, Rd P.O. Box 90, Nisswa, MN 56468-0090 Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com All rights reserved.No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Tiger Woods Saga; how it relates to success

2010-04-17T06:42:00.000-07:00

Tiger Woods – What positives can come out of this?

What’s next; the beginning of the solution

Christine Brennan wrote in her column on Thursday, April 8, 2010:

“If I were managing Tiger’s career (now there’s a reach), I would have demanded that he miss a major no matter what, if only for show.”

This caught me by surprise but understand her effort to make her point. This to me is more evidence of our world rewarding perception and deception versus purpose, reality, reason and substance.

What’s more punishment?

1. Skipping a major tournament to hide fm a humiliating and humbling experience or
2. Standing on the tee knowing what every single person in and outside of the ropes, millions on TV, more millions soaking up all the articles written are all thinking?

The burden is incredible and very difficult to fathom. Tiger didn’t even have a teammate to lean on, but he has a Mom standing behind her son during the good and bad times in life and no doubt has a wife who hasn’t figured out a way to handle the millions out there scrutinizing her every move.

Nike is there for support as a sponsor when he isn’t on the course. On the course, he is on his own, tons on his mind and a little white ball that has to be stroked with perfection. This is punishment because he has to do it with the danger of his mind moving in every direction imaginable. This whole setting was a humiliating and humbling experience @ its highest level and Tiger did the world a favor by accepting the challenge if we are in to learning lessons on how life works.

I don’t know too many people who could do what Tiger Woods is doing by playing @ the Master in Augusta, but it probably shouldn’t be surprising. He’s been doing things out of the ordinary since he was born. Put another way, he was born to do something out of the ordinary yet he is the one responsible for anointing and validating himself.

The Tiger Wood’s saga lends even more credibility to how life works. “We were put on the earth to validate and anoint ourselves beyond anything people say, write, believe, think or report.” Lectures, articles, video, quick fix pep talks and all that makes up the world of sports do not matter. Nothing else matters. It’s just the way life works. There is a lesson on how fragile life and careers are. If Tiger can stumble, anyone can stumble and fall. If Tiger can pick himself back up, he sets a standard we all can live by.

What would you tell any person who is working for a living? Miss your next assignment? No, you would tell them to get back to work, you have a responsibility to earn your keep; provide for those in your care. Everything is more important than you, the person. You also have the obligation to face those who care about you. Respect, trust, love and caring levels are earned. No one is in a position to demand them. They take time to build, and once built they can withstand the most emotional and traumatic experiences.

Life is all about choices and we all end up living with our choices. The magnitude of this situation is clearly evident and even a part of the sermon delivered on April 11, 2010 @ United Methodist Church in Milton, FL. The pastor mentioned Tiger Woods and his road to restoration. Will it happen?

If I was managing Tiger Woods (now there’s a reach), I guess I would have to mention how life really works:

You were born with an incredible talent; the ability to express your skills and those skills are well documented. The skill to express your skill is what makes you successful. You learned early in life that the value of those skills was directly influenced by your attitude, swagger, boldness, gregariousness and competitive instincts. The only thing standing in the way of your legacy is you. Take some time to get to know the real you. Sort out all the blind spots that others see in you that you do not see in yourself. Two of those are your caring and giving levels; the last two levels highly rewarded people recognize and respond to. Get out of yourself and bring some real people in to your life.

No one can ever prepare you for the day you make a huge mistake in life. The only thing that gets you through the moment is all the love and caring that comes from those around you and you recognizing you made a mistake or have a problem. It all starts with the immediate family and builds on fm there in the world of sports.

Every person needs three (3) to (6) mentors. The amount of your public love and caring will be clearly visible once you are inside the ropes and hitting the golf ball. The level can go higher but only if you reciprocate by showing your love and caring level; respecting and trusting others. Respect, trust, love and caring have two winners or no winners.

I can fully understand why going in to seclusion @ home or a treatment center is the way to go. Traumatic and emotional mistakes create an immediate “what’s next” scenario, so there is a lot of planning to do. The safest place to do that is in your home where you feel most comfortable. In Tiger’s case it is magnified considerably. We know about our failures; no one needs to tell us. What’s next is all about rehabilitation and restoring what you’ve lost.

We do know the following:

No one is perfect, we live in an imperfect world and our social status doesn’t exclude us; we are not entitled to anything and we are just as susceptible to wrong decisions as any other person. We are humans. Humans need to spend more time getting to know the person inside their body. Once we find out who and what we are we can figure out where we are going and how we are going to get there. Problems never go away. You attack the problem and solve the problem. Most of us need others to help us help ourselves.

No one is perfect, and it's unfair of us to expect any person to be. In looking for flaws, we may be overlooking real talent. When I look in the mirror I see things I wish I could change. I try to keep that in mind when I judge others. Our responsibility to those in our care is to help them build a good life; not spend our time condemning.

Critics or no critics, we are all going to get a label in life. I've seen great people with great labels and not so great labels. I've seen not so great people having great labels and I've seen them labeled properly. There is not much in between when it comes to labels. The main thing about labels is they are tough to shake; right or wrong. The one guarantee is you will get a label; especially in the game of hockey.

Sometimes we think that the things that are happening to us don't happen to everyone else. It's hard for us, and the people around us, to accept our 'special circumstance' as a huge mistake or the product of an unfair society or life. Hard times give us the opportunity to reflect on the good things and grow. As difficult and harsh as it appears, we need to honor the situation and turn our thoughts to the future with resolve. We need to remove obstacles that prevent us from a daily critiquing of our lives, so we can move toward being a detailed person that cares about others while in the process of building our lives and maximizing our potential.

The "key words" are caring and giving levels. If we care, we have to accept the fact that we share and carry other peoples' burdens and problems; when someone is hurt physically, mentally or have a problem, we all hurt.

Those close to Tiger are smart to be patient, humble, gentle, kind and show compassion while working with him. In a sense these people in our lives go way past the acquaintance and companion levels. They are closer to the "real friend" level where we can go see them unannounced, pour out our heart and listen to them pour out theirs. We have the responsibility to "corner them" and tell them things they may not want to hear in addition to compliments. We have the responsibility to provide meaningful experiences so they can grow. This is the responsibility of Tiger’s inner circle. Sound familiar?

We all recognize the need for support systems in every person's life, but it still comes down to each of us just "getting it done". This process has a way of separating the strong from the Wannabe; people who believe they can make a difference versus people who only “think” they can be something. Tiger embodies the statement, “Think and believe big, apply some determination, and big things will happen.” The path he travels has no room for the timid and weak minded.

Keep supporting each other as one big family and the results will be dynamic. We are all part of something much bigger than all of us combined; namely each person's life and career. Do all this and the people keep growing; the honors keep coming and everyone gets better.

The highest honor any parent can receive is someone declaring, “Your child is a special athlete and an even better person. Your child is a detail person, cares about others before any personal gain; knowing that personal gains come fm being a detail person and caring about others.

So I guess my wish for Tiger would be people saying, “Mrs. Woods, I love and respect your son because he is a detail person and cares about others before any personal gain. He is a great athlete but an even better person.” He can start by saying, "The clubs Steve Mara has are authentic. If he's in a position where he needs to sell them to help his family, I want to personally endorse his efforts and will do what it takes to finalize the sale."

Being authentic is paramount in the case of Tiger. How hard is it for someone to look @ you and say, "What you see is what you get?" This should not be something you have to work @. This should be you; you caring about people, you wanting to make a difference in other peoples' lives, you wanting to make the world a better place to live. You are that big and it can be done. This is nothing more than the desire to do something bigger than you for others. Putting it bluntly; it's all about Tiger the person, not Tiger the golfer; you getting out of yourself and bringing others in to your life.

If everything falls in to place, the great ones never arrive; they always have something to prove. Tiger will go on to break every record and leave a legacy that will impact our society forever and be tough to surpass; one more career salvaged and restored. All anyone needs to ask when they make a mistake: "I need the chance to redeem myself and I will."

If it doesn’t happen, Tiger failed to see his blind spots, and the adoring crowds will switch to someone with more substance; as will the corporate world. It may have started when Tiger received a lukewarm greeting on the 1st tee Sunday and Phil Mickelson’s started winning the crowd over with his play and subsequent win on Sunday. Phil’s feel good story will win over any fan or corporation.

You can go out and get all the spin doctors you want. They are @ your disposal but don’t waste your money. It’s all about you!

We get our start in life, go through some ups, downs, scrutiny and adversity; what really matters is how we end up when it's all over.

Fast forward now to January 27, 2011. Tiger's quote in the Toronto Globe and Mail reads: "I think in order to play this game at a high level, it helps to have a clear mind," Woods said. "I've played at the high levels before in the past without a clear mind, but it helps to be consistent. It helps having your life in balance."

Ole Gringo says, "I believe he will play better as he discovers the commitment required of a purpose driven person. People with purpose have a clear mind and have no problem expressing their skills because they are always sharing, caring and giving in addition to practicing and playing."

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325

Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.comAll rights reserved.No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

We know you can play, but do you figure in to the mix?

2010-04-03T12:29:00.000-07:00

We know you can play, but do you figure in to the mix?

What is your on and off ice value in a team setting?

Hockey is unique in that you play offense or defense 100% of the time so you basically have two games within one. You have the game with the puck, which is why most people play the game and this game is challenging to teach more because of reaction times than skill. You have the game without the puck and this is less of a challenge to teach but hard to convince a player of the offensive benefits.

What makes you better?

Does your unit generate offense? Does your unit direct more shots on net than the opponent? If so, how many shots are directed @ the net compared to your opponent? What is your shot percentage? Do you spend more time on the attack with your break-out; transition game and sustained fore-checks, than your opponent? Does this translate in to a strong team game? What is your reaction time off pucks shot fm the strong side point, transition? How quick are shots generated on net after a turn over? Anything more than 3 or 4 seconds and you have a lost opportunity.

Do you provide the defense that leads to offense? Defense is not as much fun to play but defense is easy to teach and a necessary ingredient for those who like offense. There is only one puck. This 1 x 3 inch piece of rubber, weighing 6 oz, is the key to all success stories and generally time of possession dictates that success. Once you lose a puck, it is a very good idea to get it back.

What is your reaction time offense to defense; defense to offense? Why make the game so complex?

The mark of a great hockey player simplified is:

One – Your ability to get to open ice the split second after your teammate gains control of the puck. The teammate is thinking about who he can give it to. In fact, the great ones are thinking about who they give a puck to before they actually receive it. Puck carriers have an option of four players when you are @ full strength and the tape on the stick of each teammate must have a clear path to the puck. If your tape does not have a clear path to the puck, you are not a good player. Options are easier to see when there are clear paths. This upgrades the hockey sense skills and vision of your teammate with the puck.

Two – Your ability to pick up your “check” the split second after your team loses a puck. Picking up your check means you are @ minimum bumping your check while your teammate closest to the puck is in full flight to arrive first. If you arrive 1st, it’s only right to arrive with separation in mind. Separation fm the puck is your main objective. Reading and reacting is part of the equation. Anything less than 1 ½ players on the puck is not enough. This means the 2nd closest player to the puck is your teammate who is focused on being on the right side of the puck defensively unless there is a high percentage chance of picking up a loose puck created by separation.

The 3rd closest player is in more of a defensive posture but quick to pick up on an opportunity to gain a loose puck. Once the 3rd man is activated, players one and two simply become players two and three in the system. Players 4 and 5 are in a defensive posture ready to become one and the process continues. Not too hard, eh?

Great offensive teams can always focus on becoming better defensively in tough games and playoffs, and they will as the stakes increase. Great defensive teams have a tough time generating offense once they are behind by one goal or more and have a tendency to play not to lose or keep it close. Since when was any game played not to lose or keep close? There are no moral victories in competition. There is a winner and a loser.

The Stanley Cup playoffs are a reminder of the importance of survival in a playground setting with some guidelines. Recognizing that we were put on this earth to validate and anoint ourselves, this is your opportunity to excel, anoint and validate yourself beyond anything people say, write, report, think or believe. There is no rule that says you cannot be the most important player in any contest.

While stars get paid to be stars, there is nothing in the rules that states you cannot evolve in to being a star, or one of the three stars, in an important contest or series. Play to win and develop winning habits by doing the thing you love to do most; namely putting the puck in the net.

The Stanley Cup resembles a playground setting with a pecking order. The lineups are full of established players whose career achievements and shortcomings are well documented. If you don't like the pecking order, the setting is there to change it. Rules are reduced to guidelines and players get paid to outwork and outperform their opponent with no regard for who they are or what they've accomplished. Players accept the challenge and set out to prove they are better than the next guy.

The Cup mirrors life. Aren't we all paid to outwork and outperform our opponent in life? Pittsburgh’s Cup win was a great win for a group of guys who have no quit in them and appear to be relishing the playground setting where there is no room for the timid or weak minded player. Makes you want to bring back the old playground setting where kids grew up learning how to survive on their own in the toughest situations. More than one picked up their stick, skates, bat, and glove and went home.

Something tells me the PIT players have some playground experience and are interesting in altering the “pecking order”, maintaining and sustaining what they have worked so hard to accomplish.

Developing the attitude, swagger, boldness and competitive instincts of a winner, or gamer, is your goal. Do it enough and it will become a habit that stays with you as long as you live. Most of us reach a point in our lives where talent plateaus, but we can all be more fearless and smart in what we do. There are both team smarts and individual smarts.

When the results are in this playground, like all playgrounds, will define and shape the lives of individuals, teams, organizations, communities, countries and the world. Not one player got mad or embarrassed enough to pick up their stick and skates and go home. They accepted the results, shook hands with those they could find, and are headed in to the next chapter of their lives.

I believe the first order of business is to humbly accept your experience and then immediately begin to guard against tragedy, complacency and sophistication setting in. This mindset and your willingness to train and improve are the only things that determine how well you do the next time you lace up your skates. Burnout is not positive through physical exercise. Burnout stems fm scrutiny and people “boxing” you in. Burnout is a product of boring and unchallenging practices that stress defense, defense and more defenses. I am one who looks @ success and championships as incentive to do better versus a reason for any fatigue setting in.

I humbly thank the man upstairs for rewarding an imperfect person in my life. His power is present in our lives, especially in times of weakness and vulnerability; rewarding those with the will to win and those who recognize success isn’t handed out.

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.comAll rights reserved.No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Lou Jankowski - special friend and colleague

2010-03-22T07:29:00.000-07:00

March 21, 2010

Dear Ryan and Family

I just received an email fm Ron Pyette stating that your father, and my special friend, passed away this morning. I feel a need to write how I feel about Lou, one who welcomed me in to the scouting fraternity with open arms in 1980-81 with the New York Rangers and one who immediately showered me with unconditional love and respect. I've met a lot of great people throughout my career and consider myself fortunate. I treasure the relationship we enjoyed over the years. My only regret is we never got to spend some time together during his retirement years. I actually wished @ some point we could have spent some time during spring baseball training in Florida; similar to the days when he took his young son to visit the ball parks during the summer months.

My first meeting, @ my first training camp, I was sitting in a meeting after a training session between Lou and Dan Summers with Fred Shero conducting the meeting. Three great men, three people with an unbelievable passion for life and the game and three I love. I am proud to say I was in this meeting with these men and will remember them forever.

Lou paid his dues beyond imagination @ a time when scouting was only for the passionate who lived this game. The game has been a way of life for so many of us. He was an inspiration and extremely loyal to his colleagues and so many others. His passion for the game can only be equaled; not surpassed. We go through life and consider ourselves fortunate when we have the opportunity to meet and develop a relationship with special and unique human beings. Lou had one of those old-fashioned value systems found only in those old timers with a solid upbringing and he took the time to pass it on to Ryan Jankowski and others.

I am convinced your positive approach to everyday life was passed on by Lou and this will get you, your family, and your Mom through this tough time. The record shows that Lou performed and was successful in whatever he chose to do and his relationships with everyone in the game is evidence of his professionalism. He always made me feel good when I was in his presence and I've never forgotten this. Our latest relationship, if only by an occasional hello, was special. We have a relationship the late Vince Lombardi called LOVE!

The world of hockey has been the beneficiary because of Lou’s involvement. His attitude, skills, boldness, swagger in his walk and competitive instincts are time tested with me. He was a very special and unique individual; something we all strive for. I am fortunate to be part of a scouting fraternity with Lou, Dan Summers and their peers. Lou’s Curiosity, Compassion, Caring, Composure, Confidence, Courage, Charisma, Character and Class of a Champion, who Competed in a Critical moment, is well documented. All the great leaders seem to surround themselves with the letter, “C”.

No one can ever prepare you for the day you lose anyone in your life. The only thing that gets you through the moment is all the love and caring that comes from those around you plus the fact you know he knows we all loved him during his time on earth.

Sports, like life, are a true test of a person's intangibles. Lifetime relationships are developed over a short period of time because of the dynamics of the sport, demands of the job and the people we have the opportunity to meet through our travels. Lou was one of those special ones.

The game of hockey, like life, is full of people in all capacities who know the value of validating and anointing themselves beyond other's beliefs, words, feelings and evaluations. We learn early on that we control our own destiny by acquiring the skill to express our skills.

Others do not validate our worth and success and Lou lived by this unwritten rule.

We all recognize the need for support systems in every person's life, but it still comes down to each of us just "getting it done". This process has a way of separating the strong from the Wannabe; people who believe they can make a difference versus people who only “think” they can be something. The strong will survive and Lou was very strong!

Keep supporting each other as one big family and the results will be dynamic. We are all part of something much bigger than all of us combined; namely each person's life and career. Today is a day to celebrate the life and career of Lou Jankowski. Shower him with all the accolades and memories he earned. Make sure hockeydb.com adds his Oshawa Generals stats.

Lou embodies the role unconditional love and respect plays in our lives. Our relationship with Lou remains one of the highlights in our lives.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Chuck and Clairene Grillo
MHC Family

Skating Tips

2010-03-16T09:58:00.000-07:00

I asked my Grandpa, Chuck Grillo, his best skating advice.

This is what he told me...

Learning how to skate is kind of a given. Players learn two ways. One, they emulate those who have great form and technique. Two, there is instruction on the basics of skating and that stays with you every time you step on the ice. How many times have you heard, "They skate just like their father or mother."

Bret Hedican's children will have to choose between Bret and Kristi. We know which one we would emulate. The techniques you learn can be, and should be, incorporated in to the warm-up prior to each ice session.

The tip is: Ultimately off-ice training is the difference maker. Professional mentors and scouts have known this for years. Once the technique fits your body physiologically, your goal should be to get bigger, quicker, stronger and faster. Technique should be repeated in warm up drills.

This is a simple, but not easy process. Jump, sprint, lift and skate on the same day and you have four different muscle groups, with four different ranges of motion, working and growing together. Over speed drills on the ice cause you to skate out of your comfort zone. The end result is a bigger, quicker, stronger, faster skater capable of acquiring all of the agility and mobility skills incorporated in to the drills required for success. Practice @ the tempo you play and your chances of succeeding are greatly enhanced.

This also gives you a psychological advantage on your opponent in life knowing you paid a bigger price to succeed. Injuries sustained during competition heal quicker.

The next order of business is thinking and believing big. All children ask the same questions:

"(Fun)damentals, skills in the drills and synergy beyond imagination. We want to know where we are going, how we are going to get there and who is going along with us for the ride?"

Sincerely,

Monique Rondeau
Age 11
Ole Gringo's Granddaughter

Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.comAll rights reserved.No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Got It Made vs No Respect

2010-03-08T09:29:00.000-08:00

Got It Made versus No Respect

I write and say a lot of things, some of it to learn myself, and some of it to send to others. I am witness to successful moments and successful seasons most every day of my career. My first warning would be to,

“Treasure the moment and use it as incentive to maximize your potential.”

There are basically two types of athletes in this business [“no respect" and "got it made”]. "No respect" and "got it made" people have to have the same mind set if they are to continue on the path to become what they, and others, believe they can be. One of them has a little tougher journey.Never forget your time on the bench or the wait to see if you will be recruited or finally be drafted by some NHL team.

Don't forget where you come from and how you feel about yourself, and your ability, as well as how others feel about you as a person and player. The most successful people in this game stay close and believe in those who care and believe in them.What type of confidence does it take to overcome a coach, scout or GM sitting you on the bench, failing to recognize your worth, failing to recognize your achievements or putting you on a fourth line when you know you are better? What type of confidence does it take to over come any situation you encounter that is similar to this? What happens when they shower you with praise or pile the negatives on your game? You will benefit from both experiences, but I would let the "no respect" mode handle both scenarios. Bottom line is your success in any setting comes down to "they believe in you and you believe in them". If every mentor could get this across to their players, there would be a lot more success stories in life and athletics.

“We are put on this earth to validate and anoint ourselves regardless what people believe, say, write or report.” Reaction requires an attitude, swagger, boldness and competitive instinct with a willingness to keep learning.Feeding off of “no respect" is an easy thing to do when you have talent. Anxiety disappears when you prepare in life, so difficult situations are easy to over come and you welcome critical moment opportunities to excel. People who have to deal with "no respect" have to continue to prove they belong. They have to prioritize and simplify the process by listing all assets and liabilities. They have to train year around and their game goes to unexpected levels because they are always trying to prove something to themselves and others.

This type of person is rarely satisfied because they know that with just one slip people who make decisions will say "I told you so." Why wouldn't a "got it made person" do the same?

Coming from where I come from, I believe I've always got something to prove. I've reached levels I never imagined and I want to keep reaching. My biggest reach is "Peace of Mind" knowing I did the best with the talents that the Good Lord gave me to function on this earth. Have I done anything great? No! I've just gone beyond what others believed I was going to be. I will do this by believing we never arrive.

When I think about young people with a talent, those who are fortunate to have things going for themselves, I think back to all of those who let complacency and sophistication creep in to their lives and game because everything was going right. In most cases it is a sub-conscious thing that we don't even recognize is happening to us. We need to learn to sort out the different levels of praise.

How many times will you hear; "They were at the top of their game and they let it slip?" For this reason, I believe that those who have it going have to have the same mind set as those who have "no respect". They have to wake up every morning knowing that one slip and they could be in the "no respect" category, simply because life has a way of doing this to people. They have to wake up every morning to be what they can be, and they have to guard against complacency.

People in charge have their own style of managing and judging you. Once they make that judgment, they are no different than the next person. They will try and prove their assessment of you is correct. Now the road to success becomes more complicated, however, it is possible to prove people wrong. An announcer choosing one player over another for an all star team will do anything to prove he is right; conversely a coach or GM playing one player over another to make their team or a line will do anything to prove they are right.Most athletes have to "pay a heck of a price" to be what they can be in life. Very few are born to be there. Why would they risk losing what they worked so hard to achieve? Recognizing and appreciating how they got there is one sure way to ensure that things will continue to go well for them. Paying a price in the off season is the other way to ensure success.

I could be pretty well satisfied with my life right now, and I could elect to take some form of retirement. I don't know that I will ever be satisfied with my life or my situation. Sometimes I wish I could change that part of me to make a better life for those around me. This is me and I have to enjoy being me before I can "help others help themselves" enjoy being what and who they are.The key words are "helping others help themselves". This means that no one is giving others a hand out in life or the game, no one is going to do it for them!

Live it and get it done!

I think back to Super Bowl Sunday. If you read all the clippings, there were super stars and great players on both teams, and both teams had a chance to win. I said before the game that there will be a best and the worst player on each team. Will the best be the one projected? Will the worst be the one projected? There will be a winner and a loser. Will the winner be the favorite to win? Bottom line, I would take pride in being the parent of the worst player on either team.There were two quarterbacks. One just happens to continue to approach life as a "no respect" guy even though he got rid of that label long ago. Who would guess that his eyes alone would be the difference between two great athletes? Who would guess that his ability to "look off and deceive" would be the difference in a victory and out playing one of his peers? This is just another reminder that sometimes tragedy creeps in with both success and failure. Keep the guard up and watch the outcome in future big games and then your career. It will play out!

Eyes tell a story. Maurice "Rocket" Richard comes to mind when I think about a pair of eyes that burns right though you. He embodies the word focus and concentration. You only need to look in his eyes once, photo or in person, to see the tenacity and burning desire to compete. Eyes have a way of telling others that you are a deep thinker, fierce competitor or always thinking. The eye concept lends credibility to maintaining your focus in life. Jackie Robinson is another athlete who comes to mind. His eyes, along with other assets, were full of determination, life and focus that allowed him to break the color barrier in baseball. You will always be able to learn from their eyes. There were enough pictures taken.

The other facet of eye training has to do with peripheral vision. You have, or will, hear the expression "eyes behind his head". All the great players have it. Their heads are always swiveling and they know what's happening all around them. "They see the ice" and they make the game seem easy. This type of head moment also improves "reaction time" in transition situations. They have a way of knowing everything that is going on around them without dictating their move.

You can improve peripheral vision by observing people in a crowd or players on the ice. This is a fun exercise; a way to pass the time of day constructively. Your awareness in all situations improves. You actually know what's going on around you while carrying on a conversation. This carries over to your on ice performance. All the great ones know what’s going on around them; on and off the playing surface.The eyes [ look offs ], hand drops, head and shoulder moves, ability to "freeze" the other players on the ice give you a better chance to complete a pass, get a puck to net, get pucks through shin pads and sticks, as well as gain space to give your teammates time to get to open ice. It takes energy to do all this. Lazy people do not add this to their arsenal.
Looking in to a person's eyes will also tell you the level of "life" they have in their work and game.

You are blessed with assets people can't teach. You are either born with these skills or acquire them from observing people and players on and off ice; then emulating them. Use your assets to maximize what you already have earned in life and continue to approach life as a "no respect" guy, one who has to get up every morning to prove he belongs where a select few don't want you to be.

This is the foundation for completing a good book on life a chapter at a time.

ã Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps
24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090
Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com
All rights reserved.
No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Communicating with those we care about

2010-01-30T07:33:00.000-08:00

Communicating with those you care about

"Be open, be honest, be real, be clear and have fun going through every process.""It's tough to talk to kids who have already arrived and easy to talk to kids who are pushing to get to the next level."

"Carpe diem" Seize the day."

"It doesn't matter where we start or where we are today. The only thing that matters is where we end up."

"Conviction is what keeps you going. Stay the course. Don't compromise your beliefs and dreams."

"People want to narrow us down with words, thoughts, evaluations and beliefs. Do all the things that make you feel good about yourself that excite your mind."

"Young people get more from sharing ideas than giving them pep talks." Sharing ideas, talking with versus talking to, has potential to be life changing. Pep talks are a quick fix with little or no staying powers."

Our lives count only if family, friends and people in need come first."

"What we do for people in need (especially youth and needy) means more than anything else in life."

"Enjoy life by connecting with others and giving back."

Do all this and all things fall in to place. You help others become what you believe they can be. People who train and work @ our Minnesota Hockey Camps have been well schooled on the value of an athlete having the capacity to do 180 degree turns, reprogramming, adjusting and staying on course. Some have been sitting in our class listening to the Template for Success for a lot of years, some for one summer.."

Pushing yourself in a competitive setting prepares you for every situation in life."

I believe young people have the capability and mindset to find a solution in any situation. Most are only @ the goalmouth of boldly expressing their skills with an attitude and a swagger. This will evolve providing they have a strong desire to compete.

MHC creates exposure and awareness; giving you the knowledge to understand yourself; see your blind spots. Until that happens, you are treading water in your development.

Young people today have more intuitive minds and a good chance of being more street smart: years ahead of me @ the same age. The reason being; there is so much more information for them to soak up if they remain curious about the game and life.

Love plays a huge role; there are two winners or no winners. Tell them that. -Ole Gringo-

ã Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps
24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090
Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com
All rights reserved.
No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Give your athlete a sporting chance

2010-01-23T13:16:00.000-08:00

Give your child a “Sporting Chance”
in hockey and real life

Winning @ all costs is destroying youth development. What does it take to get people to see the big picture? This means developing habits that will lead to success versus winning games @ an early age. Work, training habits and figuring out how the mind works, will go further toward dictating success than winning @ all costs @ a young age. We have a number of goals @ our summer camp as we try to connect with young athletes.

We teach young people that training and hard work go hand in hand and can be a source of fun and good times. Sweating with your peers in a training environment can be as much fun as scoring and winning. Creating awareness while exposing both assets and liabilities are paramount to young people defining their game; whom they are, and what we collectively believe they can be.

Most young people “think” they train, “think” they have a passion for the game and life, “think” they work. They have no way of knowing until they are involved in the highest synergy settings possible where they can visibly see who does each skill the best. Only then are they in a position to emulate those that set the bar in each skill and exercise. This is not about winning. This is about developing habits that lead to making you a winner on the ice sheet and in life. There is room for everyone to overachieve in their asset categories.

Early success has become a priority of adults @ the expense of a solid foundation in place to prevent fatigue, complacency and sophistication @ an early age. We are witness to this every day we go in to a rink to view another prospect. “Fatigue, complacency and sophistication kills. Fatigue because of conditioning levels, complacency and sophistication because of too much, too soon @ an early age and failure to consciously guard against it.”

We spend too much time sorting out the weak fm the strong, deciding who is best and who is the worst, when in reality no one can predict fm year to year who is on top until age 25 or 26. Even then I’ve seen people totally wrong in their assessments. We place too much emphasis on ratings; failing to realize that young people were put on this earth to validate and anoint themselves as soon as they begin to figure out how life really works.

This is our obligation to our athletes. The most important part of how life really works is learning to train and work. They will find a way regardless of what you say, write, believe, report or how you rate them if you will just let them grow in a “playground setting” with guidelines. They need only to recognize and accept what they do well, and what liabilities need to be managed, so they can contribute in a team setting. If you need to grade your athlete, do it with exposure and awareness as the primary motive. Take your assets, build on them and manage your liabilities to the unnoticeable level if that is possible. Do not have ratings be the deterrent in any situation.

This is Minnesota Hockey Camps; a “playground setting with guidelines” in place to ensure that each child gets an opportunity. We are @ a point in our society where playground settings are close to extinction and this was the underlying reason why so many young people were able to figure out who they were without some adult coming down on them. This was the driving force behind each person figuring out how life works and success.

No one manufactures a champion. Champions rise out of adversity and understanding of their strengths and weaknesses knowing they have a support system in place. They develop in programs that have the vision to allow kids to experiment and try something without worrying about the other team scoring. We know how to take the game and blend it in with recreation. We know how to run a pond hockey practice with guidelines that emulate the early players who developed on outdoor rinks. We’ve been able to equalize the amount of fun in the weight room, on the dryland, in the classroom, on the shooting range and on the ice sheet. We’ve been witness to players leading in each of these settings and not the same players. Hard work is gratifying; a skill in itself.

The skills are in the drills and FUNdamentals are the priority.

We’ve been witness to our worst camper going on to be a lawyer, our lowest talent levels going on to be millionaire professional athletes and a player unwanted going on to be Captain of a Gold Medal group of athletes he was cut away from two years earlier.

We want each of our athletes to recognize the importance of physical activity as well as the use of their minds and curiosity level. Once defined, it’s easier to implement an attitude, swagger, boldness and competitive instincts that lead to young people becoming winners in hockey and real life. This leads to players developing the skill to express their skills; an acquirable skill that gets left out of the mix in most programs and educational settings.

Teaching young people how to win in life is a lot more complicated than teaching a puck skill or breakout. Some coaches have it down in theory, but too few have the skill to teach young people how to win. We believe we have the Template in place to get the message across to our campers. We have it in a formula and we know how to get it across. We are proud to say, “MHC mirrors life with lifetime values.”

A sport, like life, is a process that becomes simplified when we understand how everything works; meaning the body, mind and life. Learn all this and real life becomes a walk in the park when it comes time to commit to something you love. –Ole Gringo-

ã Copyright by Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps
24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090
Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com
All rights reserved.
No part of this book, blog OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Seminal Moment, Stanley Cup, WJC for USA

2010-01-15T12:52:00.000-08:00

Seminal Moment

I have to admit I am more a fan of players and staffs than an employee in the game. I've been witness to great accomplishments as individuals, as well as teams, each season and I became a fan of the players as well as the staff.

Almost daily, you read in the news where some player or person had a seminal moment that defined their career and/or life. Life shouldn't be all that complicated, but it tends to get that way sometimes. It has been a while since the Pittsburgh franchise had an attitude and a swagger. Looking @ this 2006 Penguins team, I get excited. They are a glaring example that age really doesn't matter if you are mature. The youngest players in the line-up were by far the most mature of anyone we interviewed prior to each draft. They had a maturity level far beyond the normal 17 - 18 year old as have a number of high picks in the draft. If young players are mature what difference does it make? The 2006 feeling played out to a Stanley Cup ring in 2009.

Team USA in the 2010 WJC is an example of taking your game beyond the technical and tactical levels of the game. Seconds after the USA win, my thoughts turned to Larry “Pops” Ross, the storied high school coach in International Fall, USA Hockey Hall of Famer, and most importantly mentor to Dean Blais and Michael “Lefty” Curran. Pops had a way of teaching you how to win. He willed an attitude, swagger, boldness and competitive instincts in to your game and life. Lefty used this to win Silver in the Olympics.

Dean has carried on the legacy as one of Pop’s prize pupils. USA players are fortunate that they crossed paths with Dean Blais. Every one of their careers will be enhanced because of this experience. If there is one thing Dean can do, he can will and weave all the intangibles in to your talent threshold.

The difference is a lesson for all players involved in the game today. These younger players may be mature but they have no doubt retained their fun loving 8th grade personalities. The game is still fun and life's new experiences are exciting if we retain that vibrant and youthful junior high personality. These players are well grounded athletes, a credit to their upbringing, and they love to be @ the rink.

If notoriety @ an early age becomes a burden, that, along with success, could also be a seminal moment in a player's career. These young players share some basic ingredients. Nothing is taken for granted. They are driven to outwork and outperform their opponents in life. They are not content to stay where they are. If they didn't have a "seminal moment" in their young career, their seminal moment is the adversity they face in working as hard to stay on top as they did getting to the top; and they accept the challenge. This is not an easy way to live your every day life regardless of age. A player’s commitment during the summer months is no different than buying an insurance policy on his career and ultimately his life. Another ingredient is they feel an obligation and responsibility to share the puck and the glory. They have figured out @ an early age if their teammates do well, the team will do well and they will do very well. They have the confidence, composure and charisma to trust their game during a critical moment and are comfortable in their own skin. They have fun winning and being who they are. They also have a game within the game. Most take their game beyond what any coach could teach.

For many, a seminal moment is some negative or a failure that wakes us up. For the high ranked players, a seminal moment is recognizing how good they are, how good they can be and the responsibility that goes with cultivating and maintaining what they have. They commit themselves to preparation and rest takes care of itself. This will give any young person, or young team, an attitude, swagger, boldness and over the top competitive instincts. This is what I believe Pittsburgh can be. They play beyond their years and they have young people with the maturity to ask questions about getting better. How special is that?

Next we ask, "Are these players human? Are they invincible? Do they need a support system? If the great players need three to six mentors outside of their immediate family, why wouldn't every person need this? I made the following observations @ our training camp during the fall of 2006. The great players have more outside people in their support system than any of the others. Is this a catalyst for their success?

"Adults and management have a way of stripping young people of opportunity; if only by a rating system." For some, you may get that “one chance” and you better be ready to make the most of it. For others, they can do no wrong. Right or wrong, the pros have less of a support system for their players than the amateurs. This comes at a time when the support system could be the most important thing in a person's life. That support can't always come from the immediate family.

None of us can say we’ve done it by ourselves, no matter what we accomplish in our lives. Supports systems are crucial to our success; whether amateur or pro. We’ve been witness to over twenty-five (25) training camps during our professional career. Sometimes it is the high risk chance we don’t take that gets the attention of management, then there are the times it is the expression of our unique talents with calculated risk taking. I've been to training camp where I've seen young men set up to succeed and I've been to others where certain players are set up to succeed and others are left to fend for themselves. I love the players who accept the challenge of beating the odds and make it happen and I feel the same for those who get an opportunity handed to them and they make the most of it and build on it.

Every athlete has to take the approach, "If it can happen, I am going to make it happen." I see a lot of players making it happen and I predicted this to Greg Malone when we sat down to discuss players the summer of 2006. I am truly excited about the play of a lot of players each season. It makes it even more special when I'm able to share some time with them during the summer months and watch them work hard, interact and have some laughs with players and the coaching staff. Players who have the intelligence to prepare for the unknown are easy to love and respect.

You have no way of knowing what is going to happen when opportunity knocks. You will know you are prepared and that gives you a psychological advantage because there will be no anxiety.

When I see hockey potential in high class young men, it reminds me of people who I believe are highly marketable if they can make it to the NHL. If they maintain the enthusiasm of a child, look like a young man (versus a boy) @ a young age, and play like they are leaders who belong, they are a step ahead of their opponent in life. I hope they maintain the image they acquire through substance and stay well grounded and a "class act".

This is the responsibility a player has to himself if he wants to go beyond being paid as a player on the ice. He has all this marketing potential that goes way beyond the salary of the player. Very few put themselves in a position to take advantage of it.

I love the following attitude. “He can do everything on the ice sheet if he puts his mind to it and he does it unconditionally. Training is a way of life for him. He comes here and he does every single exercise with the same attitude he has in a game. He does all this with a smile on his face, is able to laugh with his peers and laugh @ himself. How can anyone not love your son? He has the talent to play any position and can adjust to any situation.”

This is what I would like to write about every promising athlete I meet. There are a few that I can write about, but I want to write about more. Maybe this is a seminal moment for a player to realize he could really be something if he continues to intelligently prepare and take his development a step @ a time. Develop an swagger with an attitude, boldness and competitive instincts that lead to winning in hockey and in life. – Ole Gringo -

Copyright - Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps
24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090
Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com
All rights reserved.
No part of this blog, book OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Acquiring winning skills and the skill to express skills

2010-01-01T14:16:00.000-08:00

Acquiring the skill and willingness to express your skills and winning

There is no greater joy than working with prospects. I find it interesting to study the mindset of the younger players. First of all, they wouldn't be here if they didn't possess some unique skills. The first question for them to answer in this setting is: Have I mastered the ability to express my talent and skill level? Expressing a skill is an acquired ability that needs to be taught and learned. It is not genetic. This is something you learn; no different than passing, shooting and receiving. It doesn't “just happen”; it doesn't automatically happen; it takes time and hard work; especially during the summer months that give you a psychological edge on your opponent.

Expressing your skills in a critical moment is another level yet. Some are born with it; others have to acquire this by practicing like you play with thousands of repetitions.

While ability to express your skills is a teachable skill that can be acquired, winning is an important skill that can be acquired with the proper teaching. The front of both nets is the priority. Scoring goals in the tough areas and preventing the opponent fm getting goals in the tough areas around the net is more important than goals that are aesthetically pleasing for the fans. Good looking goals get on the highlight films. There is not that many so the dirty goals end up winning games. Get the puck to the net, go to the dirty areas for the rebounds and create traffic in front of the goaltender. This is a good start on becoming a winner and ultimately winning.

Good goaltenders have to be there when the other players are not there.

Hanging in there, or maintaining, is not progress. Every one of these players has one or more unique skills and they have to show them in every game or they will not be part of the program. It starts with the way they professionally dress and act; their mental maturity level. Their desire to compete, and protect all they have worked years for over the years is something to be ingrained in the coaches and players.

They are brought up to respect what each person brings to the team and they willingly accept a lesser role to get results (win) as well as win a job in the NHL with a back up game unlike their 'A' game @ a lower level. This carries over to the ice and they, most all of the time, win by sharing. They are placed in a playground setting, and teams pick what they believe are the 'most real people' out of the player pool. They have enough players, and the stakes are high to represent their organization, there is a ton of “unawareness” in this area, so obviously teams are not 100 percent right. Some of the worst years for pro teams are years with anointed superstars who don't get it, don’t live it, and the teams learn fm that. Players are allowed to express themselves in a playground setting with no entitlement in this business. They are @ a point where they need to make a statement no matter what it takes to make that statement.

If you bring forty (40) players in to a playground with some guidelines and no regard for what people write, say, believe or think, the twenty (20) who come out have a good chance of being the right 20. Skills get you in to the game. Intangibles difficult to measure allow you to express your skills and win the games. Players need the ability to summon energy, boldness, attitude, swagger and the killer instinct, once they reach a certain threshold of belonging, which can beat those blessed with more skill. I have seen a lot of very good players look like ordinary players in these settings and it all stems fm the inability to express oneself.

The best players want to play the best players if they have the right intangibles. The best teams want to play the best teams. The best countries want to play the best countries. It's tough to figure out life when you spend part of it hiding fm your opponent in life. Look them in the eye and get it on. You don't become the player you can be until you figure out how life works.

Expression of your skills and ability is all that matters. I believe putting highly skilled athletes together for short periods of time is a good thing because there will be a best and a worst in every group. Assigning them back to their teams is also good because they learn to lead and excel while others emulate their unique skills with the hopes of catching up and passing them.

There is more than enough evidence to prove this works. If your primary motivation for playing up is 'my child needs to be challenged', there is an argument you are stifling your child's career. Only the best out of the best benefit fm this experience.

Canada's provincial teams @ the 15 and 16 year old levels are another example of what is right. The player pool is this age group is kept around 100 to 120 players. Every one of those players have another team to play on during the season with time set aside to bring them together for special occasions and tournaments. I would have to believe that this player pool changes with regularity in line with training habits of players in and out of the season as each year goes by.

Skills to express skills touch & carry skills in traffic, slot presentation after going out of sight, thru on time with right angle, deception, look offs, false information, tandem play keeping the rink as big as possible, body control to free stick on rebounds and loose pucks are skills that are glaringly missing.

Center forwards dictate the course of the game. If your timing is right, presentation to the puck right, the games becomes easier because the rink stays bigger. If you aren't coming back to the puck when you are about to receive it, the pass is high risk for any transition to defense. Grabbing a piece of the weak side of the rink and maintaining a bigger gap between the center forward and strong side wing is imperative for everything to fall in to place.

Strong side play in your own end needs a lot of work. There were a few examples of players using their body to ensure an easy and safe break out pass guaranteed to move the team up the ice. There were also too many cases of cleared pucks predictably on their way back in to our own end. Strong side point coverage is a unique and teachable skill that works best when the strong side wing forces the strong side defense out to the blue and then comes back to the puck.

Controlling the opponent’s body before controlling the puck is imperative. Strong side point coverage is one underlying reason behind every sustained fore-check, especially when the strong side point gets another shot on net with another loose puck for the offensive team to jump on.

You will hear them say, “I am a detail person and I care about others. I have always put the welfare of those I care about ahead of any personal gain. I am finding more success by sharing than I would have by standing alone. I have a work ethic second to none both on and off the ice.”

-Ole Gringo-

ã copyright Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps
24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090
Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com
All rights reserved.
No part of this blog, book OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Emotional relationship with those we care about

2009-12-29T08:24:00.000-08:00

Emotional Relationships with those we care about

When I think of all the people in my life, my thoughts turn to my "real purpose" in life. I think of all the adverse situations people go through and how adversity and scrutiny should affect every life in a positive manner. It's all about creating an awareness on how "real life really works". That awareness prepares all of us for anything and everything in the future.

Going through adversity gives people an opportunity to see who they really are. Really is a huge word. I don't think we do anything until we "really" do something; whether it's a life, profession, school, game or training. Our attitude towards these things will dictate how happy our life is on a day to day basis. The great ones have an unbreakable spirit and much of that comes from family and mentors in their lives.

This is just one more step in the journey of finding out whom we "really" are and why we are on this earth; "Solving the riddle of ourselves and doing something out of the ordinary". When unique, God-given skills are carried out with a purpose, and they address the needs of the world, people seem to be happiest. This will lead to a career and life of fulfillment and purpose. We were all put on this earth to make a difference, validate and anoint ourselves in some way.

"Choose to have your perspiration come from inspiration and aspirations, not from motivation, so you can end a life of quiet desperation."

All these young people with aspirations, and everyone who cares about them, are having an emotional relationship. This "emotional relationship" affects all of us. This emotional journey is as close to "real life" as it gets.

The only things we get to keep in life are the things we give away. I'm willing to give my time on any day to any person I've invited to a "real experience" in life. We will measure our net worth in Emotional Experiences with those we care for and not in the amount of money we can make. If we help enough young people, we will have everything we want out of life. I'm enjoying this emotional journey with our staff, draft picks and campers because I know in my own mind that the end results will be more great human beings in the game and "real life". Its like, “Come and go with us; let’s do something out of the ordinary and special.”

Mediocre people have a way of making some of their dreams come true. Overachievers have a way of fulfilling a purpose in life while chasing their dreams.

We are old enough to know that those who are strong enough to follow their instincts will survive and maximize their unique skills. I will always believe I got to know the "Real Person" before the person does. We can’t control how others validate and label us; and we will get a label in this business. We can control our inner strength, drive, focus and will. This can never be taken away; only relinquished.

Every assignment has some kind of job description. Being an athlete involves preparing for the job description outside of the fun side of the game. The job description includes scrutiny, critics, 2nd guessing, doubt, frustration, anguish, heartbreak, anger, disappointment, tension, exhaustion, fatigue, and the entire mind testing highs and lows. There are laurels and reward attached for those who have the intestinal fortitude to defeat scrutiny and answer the critics.

You are in a position to be put on a pedestal but may end up with the best seat in the arena to watch your life and career go up in smoke and devoured because you failed to accept the responsibility of anointing and validating yourself. All of this is sure to create situations where you end up confused and unsure of yourself; not being able to predict the outcome, but certainly in a position to dictate the outcome. It’s all about understanding and having your priorities straight; knowing that it can be a memorable journey with a happy ending or one with the unhappy ending.

Some of us get second guessed once and we are out. Others get 2nd, 3rd and more chances. There is nothing more challenging than the first years of your career under scrutiny after everything through squirt, peewee, bantam, midget and high school went so well. Knowing that it is coming is half the battle. Accepting and embracing the challenge is the other half.

Mentors end up being father figures to 20 + athletes a year on their teams (1,500 athletes a summer @ a camp) and they are expected to immediately correct any problems that have been building for years. It doesn’t take a loss; it could be a phone call or any unexpected situation that ends a person’s career. There is rigid measurement for success and failure. Score clocks don’t negotiate. Parents are relentless in their pursuit of us providing a quality experience during the summer months; some even wanting us correcting problems they created. We have the physical plant, staff and program to do this.

Our mission is to create awareness by exposing liabilities and assets in both staff and athletes. It doesn’t matter what is said, believed, reported, seen, or heard; “The person responds by constructively critiquing, anointing and validating themselves.” Our reward is being witness to that person going on and doing extremely well as an athlete and/or productive citizen after they recognize all the “blind spots” (both positive and negative) exposed.

Carrie L Wood-Grillo says, “In the teachings of the yogi master (a book I am reading) it doesn't say that everything happens for a reason. It states that everything that happens is a perfect plan unraveling. Adversity is a key element for us to learn our survival instincts. These instincts were used long ago to stay alive. They are now to be used to succeed.”

We believe that the main objective for each country is to create awareness of what it takes to succeed in this game. Players left out of the mix do not realize what it takes to maximize their potential. They are king of the hill in their home town and have no clue as to what they are up against. It’s the responsibility of each country to provide this experience; create awareness, expose liabilities and assets. Our camp does this.

We want to be the person and the camp that creates an awareness of your unique skills, creates an environment where hard and quality work is the only acceptable way to train, and shows you the way to defy the odds while learning to believe in yourself. We want to be the person and the camp that believes in you until you believe in yourself.

We will get our kicks out of watching you evolve and do well in life. This is one of life’s greatest rewards.

– Ole Gringo -

ã copyright Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps
24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090
Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com
All rights reserved.
No part of this blog, book OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Critics & Blind Spots

2009-12-27T20:21:00.000-08:00

Critics – Blind Spots

Critics are plentiful in our society. "Bite your tongue" when your feelings tell you to respond to their constant degrading mentality. These people are in place to help you develop the skills of ignoring their comments and moving on to what's important. I took the time to challenge them publicly when their goal was to destroy a human life. I also took the path of sending them a letter versus airing it out in the press.

Successful people are threats to their existence so don’t put these people in a position of regulating your goals and objectives in the game of hockey and life. You may have to separate yourself from being "one of the boys". This is the group that so many "critics" adhere to. Try to be "one of the boys" by not criticizing their efforts and moving on with your own. It takes a special skill to show unconditional respect for others while creating your own path in life. How do you show respect for the kid who drinks in excess, uses drugs or chews tobacco? Show them unconditional respect and love, lead by example and hope they follow. Leave the door open for them to join the high percentage on the right path.

Critics have their place in our society. They give you more reason to maximize your potential in life and they harden you to the point where their comments mean little or nothing. They treat people like dogs but, "There are two things for which animals are to be envied: they know nothing of future evils, or of what people say about them. "

Competitive people who get it done are people capable of creating their own path in face of jealousy and unjust criticism. Resolve defeats any bad comments, but critiquing also gives us an opportunity to look @ ourselves.

Blind spots

We all have blind spots. These are things that others see in us that we fail to see in ourselves. Ten people may see a weakness in our game or personality and we cannot spot that weakness or we simply fail to recognize it. We have to be able to listen and comprehend what others say and feel about us. It doesn't do a coach or anyone else any good to tell us something if we are incapable of telling ourselves. Good coaches and mentors are very capable of telling us what we do not want to hear. I struggle with coaches and parents who are always telling their players and kids what they think they want to hear. Many times coaches and teachers are asked to fulfill a role that parents should help fill. Parents are afraid to tell their children what is “real”. They expect the teacher or coach to do it, and if it doesn't work out it is not their fault.

I know countless players who have "blind spots" when it comes to assets. They don't have any idea how good they could be, or any idea how some unique asset of theirs could impact a team.
They don't realize success is just around the corner and all they need is to apply their intangibles and go for it; develop an attitude, swagger, boldness and competitive instincts that take you beyond your skill and mind sets.

We also have blind spots when we fail to recognize all that is going on around us.

Johari Window

There are basically four windows. The first is things we know about ourselves and others also know about us. We are comfortable with this. The second is things we know about ourselves, but others do not. We learn to live with it because no one knows and they are never going to know. Let's call this "skeletons in our closet". Some of us have enough for two or more closets. The third is the sub conscious, which is affected by the other three. Sub Conscious is most affected by the fourth, which are blind spots. We need to recognize and clean out as many blind spots as possible so that we have a clear head. If your head isn't clear, your feet and hands do not work. If your feet and hands do not work, and your head isn't clear, you will have trouble playing the game of hockey and surviving in your work and life in general. We have to learn to appreciate good mentors and people capable of telling us what we do not want to hear. We also have to appreciate and listen to those who care enough to tell us our strengths.

Carrie L Wood-Grillo says, “Vulnerability is a sign of strength. It shows the absence of fear. Some blind spots for players are not having the ability to become vulnerable. Not being able to risk failure. By not telling someone what they should hear gives them a false sense of accomplishment and it does not teach them to become vulnerable.”

There is a flip side to all this once players reach some sort of pinnacle. The great players seem to be able to tell you what you don't want to hear and they are very capable of telling you what they think of you. There is something in their makeup that makes them want to do this. The great players have to guard against this so they can be labeled a great player and a great person; one who is detailed and cares about others before any personal gains.

The most teachable moments are when a young player realizes he has made a mistake and when they see what others see in them. Creating awareness that constructive criticism is the answer makes it all easier.

-Ole Gringo-

ã copyright Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps
24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090
Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com
All rights reserved.
No part of this blog, book OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Climbing out of the box

2009-12-24T15:12:00.000-08:00

CLIMBING OUT OF THE BOX

Knowing there is a good chance you will be boxed in @ some point in your life and career as a person and player gives you a heads up on preparing yourself for the task. Every person sees a player different. It helps to have the right people like you. It starts with the scouts and then it starts all over again with management, human resource people and coaching staff. Climbing out of the box is a two-way relationship. People in charge want to help you out and you have to be willing to climb. If you want something out of people in charge, you will have to have something to give in return.

As we travel around the hockey world, we continue to think of ideas that would help people help themselves. One trend that seems to affect our youth more and more each year I work in this business is when people “box in” a person with no support system to help them climb out of the “box”. Rating systems, evaluation camps and short tryout camps all have potential of “boxing you in”.

All players have one or more unique skills that allow them to contribute in a team setting. Most have aspirations beyond the ratings given to them. Solid upbringing and good organizations provide people with a support setting that keeps them reaching and climbing. Adult support systems beyond the immediate family are paramount. Why is it that the best players have the greatest support systems in place and functioning on all cylinders? This is a lesson for all us to make sure all players have a similar system.

Knowledgeable people realize they always have to prove themselves; this is life. We never arrive. The harm comes from management and coaching having to live up to their report that “boxes in” the person. Conversely the people in the box have to recognize what it will take to please the people “boxing them in”. More and more organizations are adding player development people to guard against any mistakes in judgment or pre-judgment. Junior camps and specialty camps fall in the same line. Once they show what others believe they have or don’t have, these same people feel the pressure to justify their reports.

Colleges have camps young people attend with a dream of being recruited. If they don’t perform in the top dozen, they get “boxed in”. Junior teams hold three (3) day tryouts and attempt to select the right players for their teams when in reality they only have a couple of spots (if any) open. They, too, “box in” players and eventually the word leaks out.

In the NHL, GM’s, their management teams and coaches come in contact with players after they are drafted. They have not been witness to their performance and upside that was shown in the environment they were part of when they were drafted. This is one more reason why player development personnel have a value if they have seen the player in their draft year. The same holds true for human resource people involved in personnel. Playing a role in the interview process is encouraged, also.

If “boxing in” is creating awareness of assets or liabilities and people recognize that they have, or will be given, the tools needed to climb out of the box, it seems to work out fine. People with a solid upbringing recognize they are obligated to validate and anoint themselves, still most of us need help getting to the level we would like to go.

The danger of all this is written statements are a matter of record, people in charge have the best chance of proving themselves right and there are some who will spend the time to prove themselves right.

One question to ask is how many make it without TLC (tender loving care)? We believe there are a very low percentage of people capable of climbing out of a box without a support system in place. Those few maintain a “chip on their shoulder” mentality and are out to prove the world wrong in every situation. Some are accustomed to doing it all of their lives. Those who struggle are the players who go through Squirt, PeeWee, Bantam, Midget and High School without facing any degree of scrutiny. Life is fine. All is well. They go through the system unscathed.

They move in to Junior and College. Some are drafted by a professional organization and the scrutiny begins. Scrutiny is the number one reason for any fatigue they encounter. The more the scrutiny, the harder they work. It’s not long before they come to the conclusion that their hard work is the reason they are tired. This could not be further fm the truth. Scrutiny and boxing players in leads to fatigue and that fatigue could lead to players failing to maximize their potential and become what others believed they could be.

We draft, select or choose people for what we believe they can be, and then we scrutinize and box them in so they have a hard time realizing their aspirations or becoming what we believed they could be.

While scrutiny in various forms is the primary reason behind burn out, creative practices (sophisticated) prevent burn out by making practices more sophisticated than the game plan. Trying things in practice you wouldn’t think of in a game, beating people one on one, joining the rush, trying a play in a high risk area are all enjoyable things to do on an ice sheet and when things break down, or there is a bad turnover, it’s just a reminder to consider the consequences of your actions in a play-off game.

Drills that actually “teach” hockey sense, a skill that I believe you can acquire when a mentor lays out the guidelines for different situations. All you have to do is layout the sequence of events that will happen every time on a 3 on 2 rush, for just one example, and you have laid the groundwork to be creative. No one is telling you where to pass. They are showing you what and how the different options are as you go move down the ice sheet.

Life is all about believing in yourself with help from others believing in you. It helps to reaffirm that we care, love and believe in a person. It needs to be said more than once. We’ve talked to a lot of athletes over the years, but not enough as they move in to manhood with an attitude, swagger, boldness and competitive instinct reserved for quality people and athletes. They are on the cusp of acquiring these intangibles, are unaware of them, don’t care if you have them or all of the above.

We believe the end result will be people becoming what we’ve always believed they can be. If you go to http://www.mnhockeycamps.com/ , you will find the quote @ the bottom of our home page. This quote is for young people like you and holds true for all of the young men and women who have trained and worked @ our camp over the years. You have every reason to be positive about tomorrow and the future. You will get “bolder” @ what you do when you are using your God-given talent. Your chances for success are greater when you understand the process and let your conscience be your best teammate.

We would be liars if we said we didn’t need the love, caring, positive reinforcement and validation of things we do well, but we also need to recognize we were put on this earth to validate and anoint ourselves. Hearing it bolsters our confidence, self-esteem and composure to function in life more than reading it. As long as we know the caring is there, we should be fine. We’re all the same on this earth when it comes to basic psychological needs and we want you to know you are something special. We continue to tell you who you are because we don’t need the risk of someone else telling you who you are unless it gives you incentive to become what we believe you can be.

“If we don’t continue to tell someone what we believe they can be, someone else will be eager to let them know their thoughts.”

It’s human nature to crave recognition and praise for things we do well. We are all aware of this basic psychological need. Your faith and belief in yourself will come from all the good we see in you and we see nothing but good in you. We would be fooling ourselves if we said we do not need help from others to get where we want to go in the game and life. Our relationships with people have always been about believing and improvement; whether improving your game or your life. There is no greater experience in life than helping people help themselves. Successes through relationships in life are more important to us than any accomplishments.

“The success stories of people in our lives are our greatest accomplishments.”

Our beliefs in people don’t change but situations do. In the hockey world, our only real chance to connect is during the summer months. While hockey has a way of taking us in different directions, the purpose should remain the same.

We have had these discussions with a lot of our staff, campers and draft picks over the years. We talk about being a detail person and caring about others before any personal gain. We talk about the joy of forming lifetime relationships on winning teams and teams in general. We talk about enjoying your high school experience, working harder and moving on to the next levels. We talk about the fun a person can have training and sweating with your teammates and friends. We talk about a lot of things. It is one of the most pressure packed settings a person can experience because we have to add in my caring level for parents and grandparents. If we make one mistake when mentoring anyone, it is a criminal offense.

The end results are people coaching and/or playing and sometimes winning Championships @ high school and junior age, moving in to junior, college and professional ranks and some winning a Stanley Cup while building memories no one can ever take away fm them. The real end result was the satisfaction I got out of watching them work behind the bench, skate on the ice; some @ the highest possible level for a Stanley Cup.

You have to be patient enough to understand you can only do what’s required to help a body mature. This, along with the realization you play responsibly, develop your skill set and are good with the puck, will enhance your game. When that happens, your mind will do the rest. Bottom line you need to play hockey as long as you can. Continue to critique yourself constructively so you can continue to be productive in helping your team win, but keep all of those thoughts positive.

“Constructively critique yourself without destroying yourself and you will become what others believe you can be. Negative talk and thinking, whether conscious or sub-conscious, has a way of contaminating our goals and objectives in life. ”

We’ve always believed in writing or saying our thoughts to people. It’s all fm the heart. Our goal is cultivating the attitude, swagger, boldness and competitive instinct that you possess. Dean Grillo says, “That person is going to be just fine, Dad. All they need is some time to grow and mature. They will figure it out, but they could use some TLC.” We discuss these things all the time with the hopes we all get better @ helping others help themselves. Our wish is Dino, and Carrie, takes the same approach with newly born Piper Elizabeth Grillo.

When it’s all said and done, our main accomplishments in life are those we helped. We can take that with us. All the material things stay on Earth. Keep working and believing and you will be just fine. Use your experience with people “boxing you in” as incentive to prove others wrong. Play with a “chip on your shoulder mentality” and you will be just fine. We all have a certain skillset. We only need to reach a threshold in the area. The mindset is waiting to be developed if you give it a chance, and it will develop if you give it a chance. You haven’t let anyone down yet. You have time on your hands and you have assets and a mindset that needs to be cultivated.

We never give up on those who show us a glimpse of excellence or those we care about. They might, but we don’t. “Chip on your shoulder” mentality I would recommend to any player; boxed in or not.

"Our lives count only if family, friends and people in need come first. What we do for people in need (especially youth), and those embarking on a new career path, means more than anything else in life. Enjoy life by connecting with others and giving back. Do all this and everything will fall in to place? You help others become what you believe they can be.”

Minnesota Hockey Camps (MHC) has been a great place for every person who stepped on the grounds. Our only bad experiences are fm young people realizing they “thought” they loved the game, “thought” they loved to train, “thought” they loved to work hard and “thought” they were committed. Some end up a little bitter about it but most realize they have to step it up to be something in hockey and in life. Ninety-nine % of all players are in a catch up mode if they want to be the best @ what they do. The other 1% are looking over their shoulders to stay ahead of their competitor in the game and in life.

We are a place with the physical plant, staff and program that creates an awareness of assets and liabilities and builds fm there while recognizing it’s a long, hard working and memorable journey if you want to be an athlete or success story in life. This is true for our athletes as well as our staff.

We are a proud place where every person fits because we mirror real life and what it takes to be successful in any endeavor. This is why every person fits @ MHC and this is why MHC is a special place in countless lives and careers.

-Ole Gringo-

ã copyright Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps
24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090
Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com
All rights reserved.
No part of this blog, book OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Mission statement

2009-12-22T12:13:00.000-08:00

MISSION STATEMENT

To be the best provider of hockey training for athletes, coaches and trainers in the World

To operate the company on a sound financial basis of profitable growth

To reach out to players around the world; making the Camp the most respected in hockey

To reach out to other programs that complements our camp experience

To address the needs of the Brainerd Area community through involvement with youth programs and other worthy causes

To empower employees and athletes to “Be As Much As You Can Be” in a nurturing environment which recognizes unique talents of each individual, unconditional respect for the talents of others, and creativity

Product of Environment, Effort, Experiences

2009-12-22T08:13:00.000-08:00

Product of Environment
Versus
Product of Effort and Experiences

I read in so many cases where we are products of our environment. Our job with people who struggle because of their environment is to make them a product of this camp, hockey and real life experiences. The environment should not be part of the equation if we are doing what we need to do. There are too many examples out there of young people realizing their dreams out of the worst settings one could possibly have. I know young people who are well off, from great homes, and still a product of an environment that failed to teach them, “Smart and hard work is what works if you have a dream, but none of this happens without opportunity”. There are many times when I feel this urge to give a young person some type of reward with the hope that it is incentive to do more. More often than not, it is a huge mistake on my part. I should have put it aside and let them work for it. Take some time and count the number of times this has happened to you. The numbers will grow fast, yet we all know rewards can just as easily translate in to incentive when executed properly.

If one person out of all of those rewarded grows sophisticated and complacent in their approach to everyday life, it is a mistake. Mistakes made with young people are close to being criminal.
How do we keep young people on track to catch and pass those picked to move ahead of them; whether draft picks or young people selected for special teams in USA / Canada hockey or even each team in their home area? Our first responsibility is to create an awareness of how life works. There is a history of people catching up and passing the “chosen ones” if they get the right help and develop a “chip on their shoulder” mentality. I see so many players left out of the mix because of money, numbers, physical maturity and wrong decisions. This is evidence that those “chosen” better acquire and maintain a “chip on their shoulder” mentality.

The questions will always remain. How do we change a child fm the product of their environment to the product of their effort and experiences in life? Young people can choose to work out with people who are driven or can choose to go fishing. Hard work is the only spring board I know when it comes to launching a career. I’ve been in a position where I’ve given young people more than enough opportunity to “run with it” and make something out of the situation. Once presented, they find out they only “thought” that wanted it. Think of all those you know that are a product of their environment versus a product of their effort and experiences. Is opportunity staring you in the face; are you capable of recognizing it when it’s all there?

If you want to be happy for an hour, sleep in or shirk a duty that you don’t like. If you want to be happy for a day, skip dryland, weights and classroom; and go fishing. If you want to be happy for a month, inherit a fortune. If you want to be happy for a year, win a major award or championship of some kind. If you want to be happy for a life time, be a detail person, help others before any personal gains, and get it done in the process. Give some thought about all those responsible for your opportunity in life; then be one who looks to give opportunities to others.

These things continue to haunt me as I make myself available to young people while owning this camp. It gets awful tiring and even more tiring when it’s your own involved, whether family or others who are part of your life through the camp, draft, free agency or trades. My idea of a great life is doing what I am doing. I have worked hard to make myself a product of everything I do in my life. Some people are satisfied being accepted as a product of their environment. My wish is that gets transformed in to effort and experiences; experiences handed out by those in a position to grant opportunities.

I am one of those average guys who had the benefit of being around great people. When I think of my teaching and coaching experience, I am one who put in the effort but was the beneficiary of some great athletes, parents and fellow staff members. When I got in to pro hockey, I’ve been the beneficiary of some great athletes as draft picks, free agents and trades as well as being a part of teams with Craig Patrick, George Gund and Mario Lemieux @ the controls. Our camp in Minnesota has been a God send starting with Herb Brooks and moving on through all the staff members and great young people who have gone on to be productive citizens and quality athletes both in and out of hockey.

Success story I’ve been a part of are a tribute to all the great people I’ve had the good fortune to work with. I have lived five occupational dreams; Marine Corps, teaching, coaching, pro hockey and Minnesota Hockey Camps. All of them are very high reward occupations and most of my experiences will be with me forever because I was able to have an impact on others who in turn impacted my life.

-Ole Gringo-

ã copyright Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps
24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090
Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com
All rights reserved.
No part of this blog, book OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Pinpointing, evaluating, selecting, nurturing talent

2009-12-10T10:20:00.000-08:00

Pinpointing, Evaluating, Selecting, Nurturing, Developing = Winning & Rewards

I observed the testing @ the NHL combine and all the games in the Stanley Cup final. My thoughts returned to scouting, nurturing and developing players. I did put in some time (one dozen pages of type written notes represent time and thought; not always smarts) but it is only time and they are only thought provoking comments. Joe Ciardelli, our strength and conditioning coach, did the analytics on the testing for me. We all know tests are what they are. They give us some indication of where we are the day we take them. While they give us some back up material, the results are only good if you can test them each year to measure improvement. There are too many high ranked players who have tested poorly and gone on to be premier players in the league. This is why the person becomes more important than the player. This is why “real people” are more important than regular people and acquiring the skill to express your skills is paramount.

I have to assume the coaches want real people who are fun to hang out with, but have a work ethic that sets them apart from others. They like players built by aggression and power; propelled by a fierce competitive spirit and strong leg drive. All the players on the list have talent. We need to find the talented players who are not afraid of getting better in specific areas; always looking to improve on their liabilities and maximizing their assets. Players end up forging a career because of things they do extremely well. Their liabilities get managed and unnoticeable, but that has to happen. There are some that turn a liability in to an asset.
When it comes to the body, the players with “room” (frame) to get better, as well as some genetic power and jump that can be measured, will probably move on by their opponent in the game; this depending on the person’s work ethic, not the player’s skill set. There are a lot of “ifs”.

Every player has to get improve and all have to get bigger, quicker, stronger and faster. We are looking for players who are wrapped up in “results”, not “themselves”; young people who care about their teammates before any personal gains. The success ratio would be higher if young people were aware of how life and careers work. We spend every day teaching them how to skate, shoot, pass, receive, make plays and score. We might give one or two lectures on how life works. This is a quick fix with little or no staying power. When they figure out how life works, their careers take off, but much of this is left to the player when it doesn’t have to be that way.
Once you reach a certain threshold of skill, size, speed & strength, sense (common & hockey), your career level can be defined and you have as good a chance as the next player. Our priority is to help every young person reach the highest possible threshold.

The list gets narrowed down pretty good, because most young people are unaware of how life really works. When they figure it out (and the good ones do), their game seems to get better. I wonder why?

This is what I’ve told every young person I’ve ever met that “thinks” they want to be a player; that “thinks” they work out; that “thinks” they have a passion for the game. There are times in our lives and careers when preparation and perseverance meet opportunity and adversity in life’s journey. Are you ready for the adversity and that critical moment or do you “think” you are ready? Are you prepared for the scrutiny coming your way when performance and winning really matter?

Once all this is sorted out, players are selected. They need someone they can trust, someone who visibly believes in them; someone with a history of helping young people help themselves. The process gets to be pretty complex. This gets scouts off the hook. There are no bad picks; just flaws in the nurturing process.

If every parent, mentor and agent that represents young people would work at making this happen, the NHL would be greater than it is. Notice I said “mentor”, not “coach”. There are coaches and there are mentors. Mentors are a quite a few levels up on coaches. Watch the bench. Some coaches put their hands on the shoulders of the person they are talking with; others simply get behind them and talk. The shoulder method gets more results and could be the difference in beating a superior opponent. I use the word person and not player because that player they are talking with is a person. I notice both Dan Bylsma and Tom Fitzgerald with their hands on the shoulders of the players when they are talking with them. I use the words “talking with” and not the words “talking to” because there is a difference. I assume Mike Yeo does the same because it seems to be the way they work as a staff. The staff has a way of “talking with” players. This is the most glaring reason for the successful march for the Cup in 2009.

Gilles Meloche told me on Wednesday, June 3, 2009, “This staff is the real deal. They are very thorough, know what they are doing, how they are going to get there and are fun to work with.”
The march to the Cup is as complex as pinpointing, evaluating, selecting, nurturing and developing players with charisma, zero inhibitions, willing and able to express themselves and capable of over achieving in their asset categories; a multiple stage and complex process. These players get to be who they are because someone created an awareness of constructive criticism and they helped them figure out how life really works.

There has been more than one person say, “The underlying reason for my success is they believed in me and I believed in them. Someone showed me how to see myself the way others see me so I could grow.”

Everyone has at least one unique skill; some more. Judge them on their execution and infectious level when they are in a position to use those talents; especially during "critical moments". Play free, play proud, play smart and play on the edge with the consequences in mind. This means you know the score of the game, the time of the game, how your play affects your teammates and organization and what would happen if you made a wrong decision.

-Ole Gringo

ã copyright Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps
24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090
Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com
All rights reserved.
No part of this blog, book OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Mentoring - A responsibility beyond imagination

2009-12-07T10:53:00.000-08:00

MENTORS CREATING AWARENESS

“The most teachable moments are when a young player realizes he has a bad game, make a mistake or falls short in some category. This is the time to reflect, reach in to the future and impact a person’s life by making it better.”

MENTORS CREATING AWARENESS

Priorities are simple when dealing with aspiring athletes;

“My obligations to you are greater than your obligations to me.”

People you mentor need to know how you feel about them, what the future plans are, where they are going and how they are going to get there.

“Great mentors have that unique ability to read the heart, soul and mind of a person and put it in to words AND on paper. We all share some basic psychological needs. Some of those needs are being liked and respected for things we work hard for and do well. We need to have an understanding of where we are going and how we are going to get there. We need to know why we are liked and appreciated. We need to sort out our assets and liabilities so we can formulate a plan.”

Successful leaders and “real” people/players know themselves inside and out, appreciate teammates who are different than they are, and have the unique ability to adjust and win in any situation. They empower people to be who they are and give steady direction toward the end result. They fully understand that developing mentally is a much tougher task than developing physically. Mindset rules over skillset. Ability to express your skills will ultimately determine your success.

When people know and understand themselves, all their strengths will surface. Understanding your “blind spots” is paramount. This is nothing more than you seeing yourself like others see you. One, there are things you know about yourself that others know, and you are comfortable with it. Two, there are things you know about yourself, that others will never know, and you are comfortable with that. We all have skeletons in our closest, but we learn to live with them. I had to build another closest. Three, there are all the “blind spots” that prevent us from being what we can be; our failure to see ourselves like others see us. Four, there is the sub-conscious mind; so powerful that it doesn’t know what is real and what is imagined and is influenced by the first three. Knowing and understanding all four allows us to live, train, compete and execute with a “clear head”. This is one way to acquire the ability to express our skills.

Good mentors adapt to a person’s behavioral style. The style of the mentor is not near as important as the mentor adapting to other peoples’ styles. When people sense you have a passion for what you do, and you “really care” about them, you will be able to maximize their potential.

Mentoring is all about creating an awareness; an awareness of how life and the mind work, an awareness of assets and liabilities, an awareness of assets and liabilities that others see in you that you do not see in yourself and finally an awareness of; “Where am I @ this moment in my life and career?” Do I possess that unique skill of expressing my skills? Mentors raise your curiosity level and cause you to think. This is the goal of our camp in the Brainerd Lakes Area; do this for every player. This is our primary goal. Players begin to improve when they are able to constructively critique, and see in themselves, what others see.

Sharing our trade secrets is the most positive way to mentor young people. The idea of “giving back” and “sharing concepts” defines a true mentor. There is nothing like instilling character, ethics and decision making skills in young players. There are too many “formal mentors” in the world. Mentoring isn’t a title. We need to get to a level where “informal mentors” do what they do because they want a daily diet of interacting with those they unconditionally care for and they do it out of love for the person, the game and life. The same holds true for all leaders; this will enable every management, scouting and coaching staff to reach their full potential.

The important thing to remember when dealing with natural athletes is;

“The last thing to develop is the attitude, swagger, boldness and killer instinct.” They are so gifted that they tend to think that everything “just happens”. “All I need is my equipment and a chance and it will happen.” Life doesn’t work that way. Until we figure out life, we can’t figure out how to express our skills.

It all comes down to defining your beliefs and then showing those in your care that you are “real and passionate” about your life and work. Examine, evaluate and determine your “real beliefs” and always tell it like it is. This way you will never be put in a position to remember what you say.

Everyone needs mentors; from CEO’s and leaders of companies down to every single employee in the company. Every person needs to learn, grow and become more than what we are. Change is inevitable. We all need someone who has been down the road and want to help us get where we want to go; not where we “think we want to go, but really want to go.”

The speeches @ the beginning of the season are great and so is that first visit with those who are in your care. If there is no steady follow-up, that speech and visit are meaningless and forgotten in a very short time. Lasting effects are the goal of every good mentor so follow-up is important. Talking “with”, versus talking “to”, is imperative.

“Responsibility is accepting what needs to be done; accountability is doing what needs to be done!”

I don’t know of an experience in life that teaches us more about ourselves than mentoring others. We learn something from every mentoring experience. “Real people” are always willing to share their thoughts, ideas and beliefs. They are not “role players responding to the environment of the moment”. They do what they want, and feel like doing, based on their beliefs, morals and convictions. They do not worry about changing with the environment of the situation and they do not look over your shoulder to make contact with a more important person in the room or setting.

Most great mentors have been down the road and they have maintained a curiosity about life that enables them to grow. They have a tremendous passion for life, the game and the future of others. Some are former players and will not be one of those ex-players resigned to sitting around, drinking beer, playing cards and telling old "war stories". They are going to have a worthwhile experience to talk about every single day of their life as a mentor.

There are no secrets to success. You will never hear a successful player say, "I lived my life for myself, I slept in everyday, I am a couch potato, I didn't train and I live to drink beer with my buddies. In addition, I have zero energy, no real interests, I am unethical, lethargic, have zero vision, have been accused of narcissism and guess what? I just landed in the NHL because I was drafted or someone thought I was a decent free agent.”

You will hear them say, “I am a detail person and I care about others. I have always put the welfare of those I care about ahead of any personal gain. I am finding more success by sharing than I would have by standing alone. I have a work ethic second to none both on and off the ice.”

You also want to hear them say, “Hockey brings me a lot of joy. The rink is the one place where I can be myself, have peace with myself, because I’ve learned how to have fun and express myself.”

- Ole Gringo -

ã copyright Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps
24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090
Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com
All rights reserved.
No part of this blog, book OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

A Dream, a Pillow and a Stanley Cup

2009-12-07T07:19:00.000-08:00

Penguins let Chuck Grillo achieve his goal

By THOR NYSTROM
Sports Writer

Chuck Grillo didn't jump from his seat, he didn't high five those sitting around him, he didn't yell. As Grillo watched the arena's clock strike zero - and signify the fulfillment of his life's dream - his mind wandered.He thought of his father, Dominic, who worked in the mines for 42 years and never missed a day of work. The father who worked overtime to buy Chuck his first pair of skates. They cost $19. He thought of the high school teams that he coached in Bemidji and his family (wife, Clairene, their six children and 11 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild) and everyone who had given him an opportunity over the years.

Clairene is one who has always empowered Chuck to live his life and for that he is eternally grateful.

He thought of his mother Doris, who had recently been put in assisted living. In his mind's eye, Chuck could see her tears. He was crying, too.When the buzzer sounded, he'd finally captured what had evaded him for nearly 70 years.Penguins 2, Red Wings 1. Chuck Grillo was part of a Stanley Cup championship. Grillo, an amateur scout for the Penguins and owner of Minnesota Hockey Camps in Nisswa, has had a singular obsession while working in the NHL for the last three decades.The drive may at times have manifested itself as neurotic, such as the time in the late '80s when he refused to touch or take a picture with the Stanley Cup when Phil Esposito brought it to the New York Rangers training camp. When Esposito asked Grillo why, the scout said he would wait until the team had won it.

Grillo frequently talked with longtime friend Herb Brooks about the Holy Grail and how he was going to stay in the game until he was part of a championship. He always told his wife, Clairene, that he would be a Stanley Cup winner before he turned 70. And so he was. Grillo's 70th birthday is on July 24, 2009."I've been chasing that thing for 30 years," Grillo said. "You dream about it all your life. I've been on the ice since I was three years old. You dream about winning the Cup a lot on the ice outdoors. "And so here is Grillo, sitting in Joe Louis Arena in Detroit. It's June 12; Game Seven of the Stanley Cup Finals. The young Penguins are a prohibitive underdog against the mighty Red Wings."One hundred out of one hundred people working in the game would have picked Detroit in the final game," Grillo said.

He's getting text messages from his young grandchildren Sophia and Monique: "Malkin for President!" one says. Another says: "Talbot shelved that like a librarian, Grandpa!"Pittsburgh held on for a tight - but convincing - 2-1 victory. Grillo, subdued and pensive, responded to each one of the congratulatory text messages in his inbox. Then he got up from his seat and moved downstairs to get on the ice."You see those eight, nine, 10 kids that you played a role in them being drafted, and you look in their eyes, you look at their families, it's special," Grillo said.He went to the locker room. Experienced the mania. It was loud and champagne was flying.

"I wasn't going to have any alcohol or anything like that to ruin the experience," Grillo said. "No champagne or anything like that. I wanted to soak it all in. That's what I did. Around 12:15, Mario Lemieux came in the locker room. He decided to hoist the Cup over his head one more time. One person in the room asked if we could take a picture of him. The next thing you know he is still standing with the Cup taking pictures for 30 or 45 minutes. And his wife is waiting patiently in the hallway with a smile; they have a flight to catch home. He didn't care."Chuck had to bend his imbibing rule slightly when he was passed the Cup. It was large and glistening - and filled with Bud Light. He took two gulps from the trophy he'd spent his life chasing. Sweetest drinks of his life. "There were over 200 people drinking out of the Cup and there wasn't anyone in the room worried about swine flu," Grillo said.

Grillo thinks he will get a championship ring, but he isn't exactly sure how that works. He says he'd trade a ring to have his name engraved on the Cup. Grillo's son Dino tells him that there is room for 52 names on the cup - enough space for the coaching staff, front office and scouts."I'd like to believe that I've done enough to earn that. But that's not my decision," Grillo said. Chuck and his family built the Greenhaven outdoor rink in Hibbing in 1954. If he's allowed to have the Cup for a day or two, that's where he's headed with it."Just to sit with it," Grillo said. "There are too many memories there."

Grillo says the life of a scout isn't glamorous. It's not until the exposition that you realize how right he is.He attended 341 hockey games in the past year (a "scouting year" in hockey is from July 1 to June 30). Last year he went to 376 and had a personal-record 42-day scouting trip. Before that, the most games he had ever attended in a season was 311. He got into a playful banter with former Penguins Chief Scout Greg Malone. Grillo announced that he was going to break his own record. And so, at the age of 68, he averaged more than one game scouted a day.In the last year, he has spent 202 nights in hotels. His scouting trips take him around the United States and Canada but also overseas to Finland, Russia, Sweden, Czech Republic and Slovakia and, less occasionally, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Japan, Slovenia, Poland and Austria.

Grillo has amassed a ludicrous 1.9 million Marriott points and 1.5 million miles on Northwest Airlines."When I do decide to retire, I'll be traveling free for a while," Grillo says with a laugh.The workdays are long, typically around 16 hours. He is lucky to get two days off a month. And those two days are filled with clerical work, such as typing up reports and making reservations for his next road trip."I wish I had as many brains as I have drive,"

Grillo said.Chuck Grillo was a 40-year-old teacher in Rosemount when he sent handwritten letters to six NHL general managers detailing his interest in a professional scouting career. He got two responses.Lou Nanne of the North Stars wrote to say thank you, but Grillo just didn't have enough experience. But Craig Patrick of the Rangers called. He wanted Grillo to come to New York.Grillo, a teacher of 14 years, met with the school board later and asked for a five-year sabbatical. The board convened and returned with its decision. It was a no and Grillo replied, "You pay me to stand up in front of a room of children and tell them to chase their dreams," Grillo told the board. "If I fail to do that, what kind of coach would I be? You leave me no recourse. I have to do what I've asked kids to do. So I quit."

Grillo would scout for the Rangers for eight years. He moved on to Minnesota, where he served as director of pro scouting from 1988-90 with the North Stars, and then to San Jose, where he moved up to become the executive vice president, director of player personnel for the Sharks from 1995-96. Grillo spent eight years with the Sharks before moving to the Penguins.He has been with the Pittsburgh organization for eight years. It wasn't always easy. Craig Patrick - the man who had started Grillo in the business and subsequently became the Penguins' GM - was relieved of his duties in 2006.

Pittsburgh brought in Ray Shero to lead the show.Shero called Grillo in for a meeting after the 2006 amateur draft in Vancouver. He told the veteran scout that he was free to look around for another job because there were no guarantees that he would be asked back."I will not be looking around," Grillo said pointedly. "I want to be part of this stable for the same reason that you want to be general manager of this stable. Every general manager would love to have your job. You are starting with a stable that has few, if any, equals in the NHL. I want to be part of this stable winning a Cup."That was all Shero had to hear. And it's the reason that Grillo survived the housecleaning and why he is now Pittsburgh's longest tenured scout.

"There's a bit of a guilt feeling for me," Grillo said. "Because I'm the only scout left. I'm the only scout left that was there to draft the last eight or nine guys in the starting lineup. All of the guys that were with me, they all have jobs. They were good. Yet, I am the guy that gets to enjoy the fruits of their labor."In his time with the Penguins, Grillo has been part of staffs that have drafted Sydney Crosby, Evgeny Malkin, Jordan Staal, Marc-Andre Fleury, Ryan Whitney, Maxime Talbot, Kristopher Letang, Tyler Kennedy and Alex Goligoski; amongst many others, including Brainerd High School graduate Carl Sneep.

Dominic Grillo died a year and a half ago. Doris Grillo was moved into assisted living during the latter stages of the NHL playoffs. Her house in Hibbing - the house that Chuck grew up in - was sold. Chuck was with the Penguins and couldn't help with the moving, so he told his son Dino to get his childhood bed and various other household items for the Minnesota Hockey Camps dorms. Otherwise they would be given away.

After the Penguins won the Cup, Chuck began ruminating on his life and his childhood. He called his mom in a panic."Mom I made a mistake. I got the bed but I didn't get the pillow."The pillow was heavy and uncomfortable and stained from years of use. But it was on this pillow that Chuck Grillo dreamed of winning the Cup when he was a boy."

I would tell every kid: Make sure you keep that pillow you dreamed on," Grillo said. "Because someday, somewhere, you are going to realize that dream, and it's going to be good to have that pillow. I'd encourage every parent to encourage their kids to think big, dream big. Because when that happens, they can realize their dreams. And at that point, you are going to want that pillow."

-Ole Gringo-

ã copyright Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps
24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090
Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com
All rights reserved.
No part of this blog, book OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Age

2009-12-03T05:58:00.000-08:00

AGE

Al Neuharth, USA Today Founder says, "After 65 you should retire, relax, help others and enjoy it."

I say I will do that after age 65 but don't know what year. He says, "Too old and crotchety are risky, but so is young and cocksure."

I like this approach. Ask questions, sort out all the responses and make a decision. Recent observations carry more weight, because what you see is what you get. I say and write a lot. I'm hoping you have the willingness and wisdom to sort out the good from the bad. That way I can survive another year in this business. I only do it to create awareness before problems happen, and expose problems when they happen. We have to solve them, because they never just go away.

Al says, under 35 - We should listen and learn.

I say, "We should listen, learn and show up on time for work regardless of age. Listening is an ongoing process. Listening is a lost art and a difference maker in winning and losing. Promptness costs the world billions, people their jobs and determines company success."

Al says, 35 - 65 Help run things and look for opportunities to run them yourself.

I say, "Be a detail person, and care about others, before any personal gains. Do this and opportunities fall in your lap. Good people take care of good people, regardless of the situation.

Personal gains come from sharing, even if it's a puck. Sidney Crosby, Evgeny Malkin, Marc-Andre Fleury, Jordan Staal, Ryan Whitney, Kris Letang, Maxime Talbot, Alex Goligoski, Tyler Kennedy, Brooks Orpik (members of “The Stable” and Sergei Gonchar are standard bearers and raise the bar. Sharing stops and losing starts, when greed enters in to the equation. We have to guard against it. The way to guard against it is by creating awareness this can happen, exposing problems and solving them.

Bottom line, age doesn't mean a whole lot to me. Passion for life, work, people and play does. Some of us just get grey doing it.

–Ole Gringo-

ã copyright Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps
24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090
Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com
All rights reserved.
No part of this blog, book OR template may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without permission in writing from Minnesota Hockey Camps

Minnesota Hockey Coaches Hall of Fame

2009-12-02T12:03:00.000-08:00

Chuck Grillo inducted in to Minnesota Hockey Coaches Association Hall of Fame

I do not have the longevity, as a high school coach that qualifies some for this honor. This a very humbling experience. I've had the unique opportunity of participating in eleven state tournaments in Hockey and Baseball as an assistant and head coach at Bemidji High School.

These, along with serving my country in the Marine Corps, are some of the most memorable moments in my life. I was one of the builders of two programs in Bemidji and Rosemount High Schools with countless hours spent in the youth programs and building rinks. I am equally proud of building the Greenhaven outdoor rink in Hibbing, MN with my father, Dominic Grillo and neighbor, Matt Berklich in 1954. This rink continues to be the foundation and cornerstone for young players to develop, providing that basic psychological need for young people having a quality place to hang out and have fun.

We've had the opportunity to rub elbows with people who have an unbelievable net worth. We're convinced that they have no more net worth than Dominic and Doris Grillo. All the money in the world would never replace their old fashion value system. Their "quiet gift of giving" has provided opportunities for countless young men and women to form relationships create memories and develop their philosophy of life at the Greenhaven Rink. We can't think of a healthier atmosphere. "This environment is why I am doing what I do. Ironically the formal education my parents thought I needed so badly had less to do with my present position in life than their old fashioned value system and that warming shack with the pot belly stove. The education opened some doors and I am grateful for that.

"My parents epitomize the foundation of our country. They are two very special human beings who feel they were put on this earth to serve others and they have been exceptional in devoting their lives to that cause. Unfortunately there aren't many like them around anymore. This is why our country and so many communities are going to suffer." I dedicate this award to them.

My career in high school was cut short because of my aspirations to be part of the NHL, a life long dream. I chose to have what now amounts to a twenty-seven year NHL career in management, scouting and development. We forever remind our players to set their aspirations high, so our players understood when I chased my dream in the same manner I asked them to chase their dreams. Personal and professional growth has always out weighed winning and losing.

Like so many others, I have been blessed with a wife, (Clairene) and children (Rob, Chas, Tracy, Denise, Rachel and Dino) who empowered me to chase my dreams. I am forever grateful to my coaching partners, players and parents I had the opportunity to work with. I am indebted to people like Red Wilson, Jim Smalley, Horace May, Con Murphy, Des Sagedahl, Jim Lundbohm, Charlie Brown and Bryan Grand as my partners in high school sports.

People like Craig Patrick, Larry Ross, Herb Brooks, Gordon Christian, George Perpich, George Gund, Greg Malone, Jack Blatherwick and Dan Summers went out of their way to help me advance in the game. Players have a way of "making your career" and that is exactly what happened to me. I had memorable experiences with the likes of Gary Sargent, Earl Sargent, Bill Israelson, Bill Himmelright, Keith Hanson, Andy Kannenberg, Tom Reise, Mike Langley, Ernie Blackburn, Richie Glas, Ralph Lovering, Steve Donahue, Charlie Meyers, Jon Quistgaard, Mark Manney, the Howe brothers, Eigner brothers, Granato family (yes, Cammi), John Buckanaga, Jim Conway, E.J. Demery, Tom Forsythe, Rob Grillo, Dino Grillo, Derrick Plante (1st dishwasher @ Minnewawa Lodge to score a hat trick in the NHL) and so many others.

Doc Delcastillo joined us in his sophomore year and remains a loyal friend and colleague after all these years. My memories also include the countless number of coaches, most still active in the game today, that I've had the opportunity to work with during the summer months. It has been gratifying to see them move on and up in the game. Then there are all the draft picks over the years that remain a part of my life. There are all those with longevity at our Minnesota Hockey Camps. Chuck Whalen, Pat Funk, Doc, Roby and Dino devoted over twenty five summers to kids and enjoy doing it, while others continue to return for short periods. Greg Malone, more than a friend, continues to make an impact as Chief Scout of the Pittsburgh Penguins. Ty Eigner is back now that he coaches Brainerd High School. Carl Sneep is our most recent success story. Carl has no doubt set a record for training at our facility, is on his way to Boston College and is the standard bearer for all the core groups coming through.

Mark Manney and Jon Quistgaard are two conspicuous names. They are living proof that we must continually believe in a life after hockey. Being a pilot of Air Force One and President of Bemidji State College are just two examples of thousands of success stories. They are a reminder that developing a productive citizen is the ultimate goal. When I think of the Miracle on Ice team, I think of Bill Baker's accomplishments in the field of Dentistry and the desire of Mark Pavelich to live a simple life.

While working with the NHL over the past twenty-five (25) years, we have maintained my obligation and responsibility to Minnesota players from Mites to the Professional levels. "We have been able to play a significant role in many lives though our friendship, teaching, guidance, discipline, uniqueness, unbiased beliefs and unconditional love and respect for the players we come in contact with." Our Minnesota Hockey Camps resort and training center, founded with Coach Herbie Brooks, continues to be one of the most widely recognized training camps in the hockey world. We are an extension of amateur and professional programs world wide, with our grass roots in Minnesota.

Starting with the early years, we have never been involved in the game for personal recognition. We continue to believe that every student/athlete needs three (3) to six (6) mentors outside of their immediate family and we have filled that void for thousands of young people and support staff. Our passion and love for the game, and development, has not wavered over the past forty (40) years. We have been involved in summer development for nine (9) or ten (10) weeks during every one of those years.

Those early years at summer camp had some unique and talented individuals like Herb Brooks (we still have his hand written manuals), Pops Ross, Ron Novak, Wes Bolin, Bruce Plante, Al Rice, Don Brose, Frank Serratore, Tom Serratore, Bob Gernander, Mike Antonovich, Whitey Aus, Craig Sarner, Brad Bestow, Kevin Hartzell, Dave Morninville, John Sumner, J P Parise, Lefty Curran, Gilles Meloche, Larry Pleau, Marshall Johnston, Craig Patrick, Mike Sertich, John Perpich, Bob Motzko, Craig Dahl, Dean Blais, Dick Emhiser, Jack Blatherwick, Mike Polich, Tom Saterdalen, Tom Osiecki, Jim Pohl, Dan Germundson, Lyle Miller, Bob O'Connor, Bill Halbrehder, Terry Skrypek, Ted Brill, Kevin Constantine, Brad Shelstad, Jeff Shelstad, and Mark Kaufman. The different staffs, at different times in our 38 yrs of working summer camp, learned a lot from each other and they are very well recognized in the hockey world. I have to believe our camp helped them help themselves because the camp tests your passion for the game and life now we have a new group of coaches on our web site that you will hear about in the near future.

Living away from home provides an element of growth that all people need as they develop both professionally and socially. Summer camps offer the unique opportunity to make lasting memories while fostering lifelong friendships, self-reliance and leadership skills.

Young people need to nurture outgoing skills to express their talents, and our camp is committed to meeting that goal while emphasizing the development of better hockey players and better people.

All families need resources to reinforce values learned at home, and it’s vital for young people to broaden their circle of friends beyond their neighborhoods and schools. Camps are where young people learn to discover, develop and critique their skills and abilities and are an important step towards a well-rounded adulthood.

The percentage of young people attending residence camps is far too low considering the unparalleled values gained through such an experience. Our camp is looking for corporations and/or individuals that are generously willing to provide that chance for those who cannot afford to do so.

Success happens to those who are willing and able to prepare for opportunity. Everyone has one or more unique skills. Cultivate them!

Working in the game and owning a camp gives me a reason to celebrate an imperfect life, one where I know in my own mind I could have been a lot better person and a lot better player. I know that this award gives me a reason to celebrate my life and our contribution to society. We celebrate every success story where we played a small to significant role in a person's success.

I have an internal wealth I can take with me forever. This gives me (and us) Peace of Mind.

We measure our success in the 8 x 10's we could hang on the walls of our camp. If we had a picture of every success story in hockey and in life, the walls at MHC would be richly enhanced. We have been able to play a significant role in many lives though our friendship, teaching, guidance, discipline, uniqueness, unbiased beliefs and unconditional love and respect for the players we come in contact with.

I worked at being a good mentor capable of creating awareness, exposing blind spots and showing players what it takes to go to another level and be a pro. Telling players what they don't want to hear is my way of telling them I care about them. When you work with a player, they become a part of your life forever. Love and respect is a two way street. There are two winners or no winners. Nurturing young people makes life worth living and it is also a privilege that we do not take for granted.

We believe every young player should dream of playing in the NHL. Take a sampling of 100 players whose goal is to be an NHL player. Take another sampling of 100 whose goals are to play college. I believe you will have more people make the college team out of the NHL sampling group than the college-sampling group if the talent levels are similar. "Dare to dream while thinking big! While determination ultimately determines the fate of your dream, you can always become more realistic as time evolves."

The great mentors deal with life. Young people relate to people with a passion for the game. My passion for the game has giving me the opportunity to make a life out of hockey. Winning is the end result of developing a foundation about life, the person and bottom line qualities that make a difference. Why is it that people remember the coach more than the teacher? Is it because the teacher spends less time in settings where there is hard work, adversity, winning, losing, laughing, crying and emotional roller coasters? We believe it is. We believe that these situations create more bonding and have much to do with scoring big intellectually over the long haul.

Winning an award as a coach means we took the time to "think and believe big things could happen" and we worked hard to make it happen. With that, comes the reminder of our responsibility and obligation to encourage young people to continue to do the same. When we broke in to the game, Minnesota was one of three suppliers of players who had a dream of playing in the NHL. They took the college route to refine their skills. Things have changed because the world becomes smaller while the player pool became bigger. This is all the more reason for us to continue to recognize that we need to do more so our players in the future have a level playing surface when it comes to advancing in the game of hockey and ultimately the game of life.

Watching Ty Eigner break down because three sets of equipment at a young age translated in to three Division I careers brings back the meaning why we do what we do. My son Dino's presence meant so much because of all the adversity he faced in the game as a youth player on up through pro. He is where he is today because of his hockey experiences and those experiences should be told to the world. Tim Oshie's presence brought back all the memories of working with outstanding Native American athletes.

As I looked down from the podium at Willard Ikola, Lou Cotroneo and Tom Saterdalen while thinking about Pops, Herb and Maroosh, no doubt the most revered in the group for their winning and teaching, I was reminded that we all share one basic psychological need; "We want to be recognized and liked for our effort and things we do well."

Coaches, players, parents and fans share this common bond of feeling good about the success of others. I thank the coaching fraternity for recognizing me in time for my parents to enjoy one better thing in life and I thank the same group for helping me help myself. To think that one day I would be still enjoying this game long enough to have Willard's grand children now attending our camp, makes me a lucky guy who has been blessed by the game I love.

-ole gringo-

ã copyright Chuck Grillo, Minnesota Hockey Camps
24621 So Clark Lake Rd P.O. Box 90 Nisswa, MN 56468-0090
Phone 218.96.2444 Fax 218.963.2325 Email chuck@mnhockeycamps.com
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Working with us Grey Hairs

2009-12-02T11:57:00.000-08:00

Grey Hairs – Generation gaps working together

Relationships young people have with their parents and coaches mirror age diversity happing in the work place. There are lessons for all to learn. Children are born in to a, “World of Grey.” Young workers are entering a, “World of Grey.”

“Older people don’t Twitter, they don’t like a good challenge and they definitely don’t warm to change.” This is the easiest way to under estimate your parents and older colleagues.

The work place is aging. People are pushing off retirement during tough economic times. The growth of generational diversity in the workplace is @ an all time high in our society, so it will take patience and understanding; no different than the growth of a child. The economic downturn and people taking better care of their bodies are the reasons. Energy levels along with zest for life and work causes people to want to contribute beyond the magic age of sixty-five (65).

Young people entering a World of Grey learn quickly that all of our lives are a work in progress; a never-ending search for Peace of Mind. Whether work or life, we should mine the wisdom and build ties in a respectful, genuine manner. Older people with a passion for people, work and life are still yearning to learn and willing to change. Young people tend to think they don’t. The new breed of Grey says, “My brain isn’t turned off; I’m not an old dog that can’t learn new tricks. We never arrive in life.” Parents get wiser as kids get older; thus the reason why grand parents seem so wise and smart.

Assumptions aside, younger people shouldn’t focus on the fact their parents and colleagues are much older. The attention should be on what they have in common that will help them grow and get the job done. Keep relationships @ home focused on growth and relationships @ work focused on growing together through work.

One is thinking, “You are older than my Dad.” The other is thinking, “I have kids older than you.” This is awkward, but what you do have in common is work and the end result. Many older workers are miffed when younger people take on the job of boss and aren’t seen as having paid their dues; no different than young children spreading their wings while moving in to the age of independence. Older people need to keep contributing their body of knowledge while tapping in to the young person’s motivation for trying new things. People can benefit by being more open-minded by realizing that there is another process for reaching a goal more quickly.

“It’s great to be open minded, but not to the point where your brain falls out of your head.”

There is a sequence of events that govern growth in children and work force. The three levels of experience are Dependence, Independence and Inter-dependence.

“Success happens to those capable of graduating from Dependence to Independence to Inter-dependence. People and teams succeed when they reach the level of Inter-dependence.”

You don’t have to like what people believe and say, but you have to respect their intelligence, experience levels and right to believe and say it. Reach decisions in a way that respects and leverages the experiences of the really smart minds regardless of age. At the end of the day, whatever side of the gap you’re on, the bridge is always built with caring, love and respect that translate in to loyalty.

This is the way life; teams, work force, organizations and companies are built. This is how life works.

–ole gringo-

Thanksgiving Week-end and Gratitude

2009-12-02T11:56:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving Day and Gratitude

All the best on a day we have a lot to be thankful for. Sports, like life, are a true test of a person's intangibles. Lifetime relationships are developed over a short period of time because of the dynamics of the sport, demands of the job and the people we have the opportunity to meet through our travels. You are one of those special ones.

The game of hockey, like life, is full of people in all capacities who know the value of validating and anointing themselves beyond other's beliefs, words, feelings and evaluations. We learn early on that we control our own destiny by acquiring the skill to express our skills.
Others do not validate our worth and success. We were put on this earth to validate and anoint ourselves.

We all recognize the need for support systems in every person's life, but it still comes down to each of us just "getting it done". This process has a way of separating the strong from the Wannabe; people who believe they can make a difference versus people who just think they can be something. Only the strong will survive!

Keep supporting each other and the results will be dynamic. We are all part of something much bigger than all of us combined, namely, our organization, team, each person's life and career.

Our recent date with the Cup brought together a group of people that showed the role unconditional love and respect plays in our lives. It was one of the highlights of my lifetime. Everyone seemed to be so proud to be a part of something that was unique and a part of our lives. Thanks to all who put in the time to make it a very special day to remember. Pictures can be found on the camp website.

-Ole Gringo-