This podcast episode features a profound discussion with Tony Cosenza, affectionately known as Coach Tone, who possesses a wealth of experience in the health and fitness sector, particularly within the realm of youth athletic development. Coach Tone discusses his approach through Total Empowerment Training, a philosophy designed to cultivate not just superior athletes but also well-rounded individuals who are equipped to navigate life's challenges. Throughout the episode, we explore the transformative power of sports as a vehicle for personal growth and the importance of fostering a love for the process of development rather than solely fixating on outcomes.

Tony Cosenza

Tony Cosenza, widely known as "Coach Tone," is a seasoned fitness professional with extensive experience spanning decades in the health & fitness industry.

Having most recently successfully owned and operated CrossFit TE [Total Empowerment] for nearly ten years, he made a pivotal decision to focus his energy on guiding young athletes, from beginner to competitive levels, in their pursuit of holistic success in health, fitness, training, and life.

https://www.totalempowerment.com/

In addition to owning Total Empowerment, Tony is a Certified Professional Coach (CPC) and an Energy Leadership Master Practitioner (ELI-MP).

Takeaways:

• Tony Cosenza emphasizes that the foundation of athletic development lies in power, speed, and strength, which are critical for success in hockey.
• The process of training should prioritize the mental and emotional growth of young athletes alongside their physical capabilities.
• Engaging with young athletes requires a balance of being a mentor, coach, and friend to foster their confidence and resilience in sports.
• Tony advocates for the importance of off-ice training in building a strong athletic foundation, which is often neglected by both parents and young players.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.highstickhockey.co
• www.pucktutor.com
• www.totalempowerment.com
• www.hockeywraparound.com
• https://playitagainsports.com/locations/newark-de/

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• CV3 Hockey Development
• Total Empowerment Training
• High Stick Hockey
• Play It Again Sports
• Hockey Wraparound
• Puck Tutor

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The episode delves into Tessa Wilson's personal and professional journey, illuminating her path from an aspiring athlete to a mental health advocate. As she shares her experiences of growing up in Saskatchewan and playing hockey in a predominantly male environment, listeners gain insight into the resilience and determination that shaped her career. Tessa articulates the pressures athletes face, particularly the rising incidence of mental health issues among younger players, exacerbated by societal expectations and the competitive nature of sports. Her commitment to fostering an open dialogue about mental health within the athletic community is a clarion call for change, emphasizing the importance of normalizing conversations around mental well-being and providing essential resources for athletes who may feel isolated in their struggles.

Tessa Wilson MACP - RCC

Building a trusting connection is essential when working in vulnerable spaces. She knows how important it is to first see if we’re a good fit. Sport can deeply shape who we are, and through her own experiences, she has come to understand its powerful impact on identity, meaning, and purpose.

Tessa grew up in a small Saskatchewan town, often playing on boys’ hockey teams due to limited opportunities for girls. Eventually, she joined a female AAA team and moved to Weyburn in high school to pursue elite hockey. That transition was challenging but rewarding—and in her final year, she was fortunate to win the National U18 Esso Cup.

Tessa went on to play for the University of Regina Cougars, where she faced new pressures: concussions, identity struggles, and uncertainty about my role on the team. After two years, Tessa transferred to SAIT in Calgary, playing for the Trojans before another concussion led her to step away from the game. Letting go of hockey was incredibly hard. For the first time, she had to navigate life without the title of “athlete.”

That journey, though difficult, helped shape my path. Tessa earned a degree in Sports and Recreation Studies and began working as a Recreation Therapist in Vernon, BC. Eventually, she pursued a Master’s in Counselling Psychology to support others more deeply.

Today, Tessa works with athletes navigating their own challenges and transitions. She believes in the value of professional support and how it can change the course of an athlete’s journey—for the better.

Links

https://unmaskedperformance.janeapp.com/#/staff_member/1/bio

• Tessa Wilson's journey illustrates the significance of professional support in navigating athletic challenges and transitions.
• The podcast emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health issues within the sports community, particularly for young athletes.
• An essential takeaway is how parental involvement can impact an athlete's mental well-being during their journey in sports.
• Listeners learn about the detrimental effects of perfectionism and pressure on young athletes, which can lead to burnout.
• The discussion highlights the necessity for open conversations about mental health in sports, combating the stigma surrounding it.
• Tessa's experience showcases the vital role of self-awareness in fostering resilience and performance in athletes.

• CV3 Hockey Development
• High Stick Hockey
• Play It Again Sports Newark
• Unmasked

Your go-to source for premium hockey apparel

Whether you're repping it on the ice or off, High Stick Hockey has the gear that delivers

style, comfort, and durability. From the locker room to the streets, this is hockey lifestyle...

Welcome to "Sharpening Your Edge," a podcast meticulously crafted by CV3 Hockey Development, where we embark on a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted realm of hockey, extending our discourse well beyond the confines of the ice rink. I am Chuck Verdolino, the founder and lead instructor of CV3 Hockey Development, and alongside my esteemed co-host Eric Melanson, a retired Marine Corps Intelligence Officer, we bring a wealth of experience and insight to our audience. Through this podcast, we shall engage in profound dialogues with elite coaches, professional hockey figures, and performance specialists, delving into the intricate elements that drive player development, including aspects of mindset, leadership, training, nutrition, and recovery. Whether you are a player, coach, parent, or fervent fan of the sport, this platform is dedicated to unpacking the essential ingredients necessary for thriving in hockey and in life. Join us as we endeavor to sharpen your game and elevate your understanding of the sport we hold dear.

High Stick Hockey

Your go-to source for premium hockey apparel

Whether you're repping it on the ice or off, High Stick Hockey has the gear that delivers

style, comfort, and durability. From the locker room to the streets, this is hockey lifestyle done right.

And right now, podcast listeners can score 20% off your purchase at

www.highstickhockey.co

just use the special code CV3SAVE20 at checkout!

Trust us, you won’t be disappointed with the quality. It’s gear that’s as tough and true as the

game itself.

High Stick Hockey

Born from the rink. Built for the game.

When the ice calls, you answer. But to answer, you need the right gear. Play

It Again Sports Newark has everything you need to take your game to the

next level. From quality used gear at a great price to get you started, to top

of the line new products for your semi-pro tournament season, Play It Again

Sports Newark has you covered. Expert advice, custom fittings, gear that

works as hard as you do, not to mention on demand skate sharpening

services, their team will make sure you have what you need to dominate the

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We all know hockey is expensive, so buy more while paying less at Play It

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For more Sharpening Your Edge episodes, go to https://cv3hockeydevelopment.com/podcast/

• This podcast, hosted by experienced hockey professionals, delves into the intricacies of the sport.
• Listeners will gain insights from elite coaches and performance specialists in the hockey community.
• The hosts emphasize the importance of mindset, leadership, and resilience in achieving success in hockey.
• Candid conversations will explore training, nutrition, and recovery strategies essential for player development.
• We aim to provide valuable information for players, coaches, parents, and fans alike, ensuring everyone thrives.
• The podcast is designed to sharpen your understanding of the game and enhance your performance on and off the ice.

Links referenced in this episode:

• www.highstickhockey.co
• playitagainsportsnewark.com

Companies mentioned in this episode

• CV3 Hockey...