Resilience Isn’t Something You’re Born With — It’s Something You Build with Topher "Toph" Scott

Hockey development expert Topher Scott dives deep into the importance of resilience for young athletes. In a world where youth sports are becoming more intense and competitive, he explains why learning how to handle setbacks, pressure, and failure may be the most important skill athletes can develop. This episode explores how adversity shapes stronger competitors and stronger people.

Topher’s passion is in bringing people together and making the hockey world a better place. Growing up playing youth hockey outside Chicago, Topher moved through the ranks playing junior hockey for the USHL’s Chicago Steel before enrolling at Cornell University. At Cornell, Topher was a two-year captain, scored over 100 points, and garnered NCAA Leadership recognition for his work off the ice including being a finalist for the Hockey Humanitarian Award in 2008.

In 2010, Topher began his college coaching career at Miami-Ohio while getting his Master’s degree in Sports Studies. The team won its first ever CCHA championship that year. From there, Topher moved to his alma mater, Cornell, where the team won two Ivy League championships. Topher also worked at the University of Michigan where he helped the program win the Big10 championship and reach the Frozen Four.

Topher is now a staple in youth hockey having spent time as a Youth Hockey director and now leading the Hockey Think Tank. His contributions to the hockey community include his work with hockey programs from the Division One college to youth levels and as a board member of Illinois’ youth hockey affiliate for USA Hockey (AHAI). His contributions continue off the ice as well, chairing two charity hockey events that have raised over $1.5 million for special needs charities.

He and his wife, Emma, reside outside Chicago with their 3 daughters Paige (7), Lucy (5), and Celia (3). His hands are full.

• Topher Scott emphasizes the importance of resilience in youth sports, encouraging athletes to view challenges as opportunities for growth.
• The podcast discusses the evolution of youth hockey, highlighting the increased pressure and competition faced by young players today.
• Coaches and parents are urged to foster environments where children can develop a love for the game without the burden of excessive expectations.
• Topher advocates for the necessity of parent education in youth sports, suggesting that informed parents contribute to a healthier athletic culture.

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