Meet Lee Elias: Five Questions with Youth Inc.'s Hockey Ambassador

Lee Elias wears many hats—coach, author, entrepreneur, podcaster, father and a champion for youth hockey development. As Youth's Inc.'s Hockey Ambassador, Elias brings a wealth of experience, energy and heart to everything he does.

We asked him five questions about the memories, mentors and mindsets that have shaped his journey.

1. What is your favorite youth sports memory?

One of my favorite memories comes from my early teens, when I was still finding my footing in hockey. After joining a spring league team, I suddenly found my confidence and truly felt like a key part of the team. We went on to win the championship and it was in that moment—feeling belief in myself for the first time—that I realized hockey was something I wanted to pursue for life.

Another powerful memory was overcoming a serious shoulder injury in high school that sidelined me during a pivotal recruitment year. Through determination and hard work, I came back stronger and ultimately earned a college hockey opportunity. That experience taught me just how resilient I could be and shaped my mindset going forward.

2. Who has been the most influential person or coach in your life?

My parents are my biggest influences—my father for teaching me presence, teamwork and the value of myself and others, and my mother for instilling strength and values that still guide me today. My older brother also played a huge role, paving the way as an example to follow.

Among my many impactful coaches, one name stands out: Fred Snickeris. At the time, I was a fast skater but had an underdeveloped hockey IQ. Snickeris showed up an hour early to every practice to teach me the game. His dedication and mentorship not only helped me develop as a player but also sparked my own interest in coaching.

3. What’s one lesson you’ve learned through hockey that’s shaped your life?

One powerful lesson came in my 20s when I lost both a coaching job and a high-level position within weeks—through no fault of my own. That difficult time forced me to reevaluate my identity. For years, I had tied my self-worth to being a hockey player or coach. During that time, I realized I wasn’t defined by my role in the sport. Instead, I found strength in understanding that my identity went beyond hockey—I am a son, a brother, and a father. I recognized that I didn’t have to play hockey, but that I chose to play. This shift in mindset opened up the world for me. I realized that my passion and drive didn’t come from the game, but from myself. If I leave this planet and all people think was, oh, that guy was a hockey guy, I failed big time, right?

4. What advice would you give your 10-year-old self—or your own kids?

I would tell my younger self not to worry so much about what others think, and instead to focus on how I see myself. Self-love and self-acceptance are foundational to success in anything. For my kids, I remind them that intelligence or talent alone isn’t enough—you also need hard work, empathy, and determination. Success is measured by how deeply you're willing to commit, no matter when that realization comes.

5. What is a motto or belief that you live by?

I live by a few core principles. One is a team philosophy: “Team, Teammate, Self”—a reminder of where priorities should lie. They all matter, but it is important to prioritize them in that order.

Another is being fully present. Whether I'm coaching, writing, parenting, or podcasting, I give each moment my full attention. I believe it is important to look to the future, reflect on the past, but live in the present moment where your feet are, because that is the only reality.

And finally, I focus only on what I can control and let go of the rest.

More from Lee Elias:

Lee is also part of our expert network, where he discusses what kids should hear before a big gam. Check out his video here:

Lee also spoke with author and psychologist Jody Carrington about the importance of empathy and emotional regulation in leadership and sports and how these skills contribute to performance and personal growth. Watch their conversation here.

Check out his children's book Twig & Biscuit. Twig & Biscuit is a great way to introduce your child—or an entire team—to the exciting world of hockey. It is an award-winning children’s book that’s helping new hockey families across North America fall in love with the game.

Elias has also written other books including How to Win and Win: What Every Team Needs to Know to Create a Championship Culture.

In addition, Lee shared his favorite movies, books, and talks that build team culture.

Lee also has a podcast called Our Kids Play Hockey. Check out their Spotify, YouTube, and Instagram pages. He shared some of his favorite episodes for parents, coaches, and players with us too.

For more from Lee, follow him on Instagram, X, YouTube, and Facebook.