Advertise on podcast: The Face-Off Spot with Adam Larson

Missouri State hockey head coach Tom Winkler returns to The Face Off Spot to talk with Adam Larson about building winning teams, developing strong leaders, and the future of college hockey. From Missouri State's national tournament run and a memorable trip to Lake Placid to the responsibilities of team captains, Tom shares insights on creating team culture, balancing offensive skill with defensive grit, and adapting coaching strategies. Plus, the two explore how NCAA changes are reshaping recruiting and raising the level of competition in ACHA hockey

Oklahoma State men's hockey head coach Jared Erickson joins the show to talk about the rise of OSU hockey, the rapid growth of the ACHA, recruiting players from across North America, and the changing landscape of college hockey.

NHL veteran and Olympic gold medalist Darius Kasparaitis joins Adam to talk about growing up playing hockey in Lithuania, moving to Dynamo Moscow at 14, winning Olympic gold, and making the jump to the NHL.

Lone Star Brahmas Head Coach and GM Dan Wildfong returns to talk player development, hockey IQ, puck support, grit, and the transition from youth to junior hockey. Dan explains why players need a standout “nine” in their game, how the Brahmas use video and game-realistic training, what coaches look for beyond points and flashy skills, and how the organization prepares players for college hockey. Plus, Dan shares details about the Texas Hockey Academy, the importance of billet families, and his message to young players about gratitude, effort, and making their parents proud.

Knute Anderson joins The Face Off Spot to discuss his journey from outdoor hockey in Minnesota to becoming one of the longtime leaders of the North Texas hockey community. Knute and Adam talk about the 20-year evolution of NYTEX Sports Centre, growing youth hockey, cooperation between local organizations, his final season coaching Southlake High School, and the development philosophy behind Dan Wildfong and the Lone Star Brahmas' success. Knute also shares a powerful reminder for coaches: find value in every player and make sure they know it.

Collegiate forward Skye Gonzalez joins Adam to talk women's hockey in North Texas — from the Dallas Stars Elite program to Marian University in Wisconsin. Skye gets real about the pressure of choosing a college path, why girls hockey is anything but soft, being your own toughest critic, and the advice she'd give every young skater coming up behind her.

Kelly Clymer returns for an honest conversation about the pressures facing coaches, players, parents, and officials. Kelly and Adam discuss difficult coaching decisions, tryout communication, referee relationships, youth hockey economics, and the emotional burden that can come with leading a team.

Sports management representative and youth coach Destin Edgington joins Adam Larson to discuss growing up in Utah hockey, connecting with Theo Fleury, transitioning from player to coach, helping young athletes avoid burnout, and creating international playing opportunities in Sweden, Finland, and beyond.

Arlington Attack head coach Nick Crimmins joins Adam to discuss his hockey journey, from attending the first Dallas Stars game in Texas to playing and training in Slovakia. They break down why skating is the foundation of player development, how backchecking and gap control support a complete 200-foot game, and why players need unstructured ice time to build creativity and hockey IQ. Nick also introduces Bar Down Hockey, an Arlington training facility designed for shooting, stickhandling, passing, and off-ice skill development.

This week we welcome Amarillo Ice Sports Owner and President, Austin Sutter.

After a relaxing off season it's time to get back to work. We would like to welcome Coach Ryan Pfeiffer back to the podcast.

This week we have a very special Championship episode with Coach Braden Brown, Kenny Tyler, and Garrett Lindley! Tune in!

In this deeply personal and refreshingly unconventional episode, Adam sits down with former NHL player Kurtis Gabriel to explore the journey from fighter to seeker. Gabriel shares how suffering, self-inquiry, and a transformative psychedelic experience opened the door to spirituality, the redefinition of ego, and a new identity centered on awareness rather than athletics. The conversation moves through his unlikely rise to the NHL, his groundbreaking Pride Tape moment, the value of yoga and union, and the belief that all people are fundamentally connected. Blending hockey stories with introspection and humor, this episode offers listeners a powerful look at growth, compassion, and what Gabriel calls “permanent happiness.”

Adam sits down with returning guest and hockey media personality Jeff Fink to talk about the rise of Texas hockey, adult-league culture, and the journey from fan to podcaster to industry insider.A nostalgic, funny, and heartfelt conversation about creativity, community, and why hockey people are just built differently.

We've hit 200 episodes, with a heartfelt reunion of original guests and a deep dive into coaching, friendship, and the life lessons hockey teaches. Join Adam, Newman, Garrett, and Steve as they reflect, laugh, and celebrate the journey.