High Performance Hockey: Lessons from the KHL with Brandon Bovee

The High Performance Hockey Podcast

In This Episode, You Will Learn:

• Differences between North America and the KHL in terms of culture, game play, structure, performance, and schedule.

• The current strength & conditioning scene in Europe compared to North America.

• Advice for young strength coaches considering going abroad.

• The importance of communication, consistency, and simplicity as a coach.

Resources + Links:

Check out Anthony’s Masterclass -

The High Performance Hockey Masterclass

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Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | The HPH Podcast with Anthony Donskov

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Check out Anthony’s Books

Physical Preparations for Ice Hockey: Biological Principles and Practical Solutions

The Gain, Go, and Grow Manual: Programming for High Performance Hockey Players

Show Notes:

Ever wondered what high performance hockey looks like across the pond? Today, we are joined by Brandon Bovee, the Strength & Conditioning Coach for Ak Bars Kazan in the KHL. Brandon is a 12 year strength & conditioning veteran who has coached all over Russia, from Moscow to the far east in Vladivostok. We have a fascinating conversation uncovering his unique journey from North America to the Eastern bloc + his experiences and formative years abroad. We’ll break down the key differences between North American leagues and the KHL, from culture, game play, structure, performance, and more. Brandon also shares his advice for coaches considering Europe, the importance of building trust in communication, and how he simplifies the process by filtering out the noise. Tune in to broaden your view of the high performance world on a whole new level!

00:00 Introducing a 12 year KHL veteran and the Strength & Conditioning Coach for Ak Bars Kazan, Brandon Bovee!

01:35 How did you get from North America to the KHL?

08:05 Formative first years + building buy-in in a foreign country.

10:20 The North American high performance model versus the KHL high performance model.

13:50 Discover the key to training intermediate and advanced players with the Gain, Go, Grow Manual!

14:40 Breaking down KHL legacy, playing style, and schedule.

18:40 What does a typical week of a physical preparation coach look like?

20:15 Comparing the strength & conditioning scene + off season programs in the KHL.

22:05 Who have stood out as your mentors and peers while in Europe?

26:00 What advice would you give a young strength coach considering Europe?

30:00 What does the future hold for you?

32:15 How to focus on consistency and simplicity above the noise.

37:00 Asking ‘why’ to find the best path forward.