Sport Perspective Development

Brad Burton

Ascent Sports presents... Sport Perspective Development Working to further increase knowledge and awareness for (youth) athletes, parents, coaches and organizations. There are many avenues to find YOUR success playing the game you love. I want to share stories and offer advice that help educate, challenge and inspire you to be your very best! I hope you enjoy!

  1. 2025-12-20

    SPD Episode 10: "The Officials"

    In this episode of the Sports Perspective Development Podcast, host Brad Burton engages with a panel of experienced hockey officials, including Bill Newman, Clint Campbell, and Nic Cameron. They discuss the vital role of officials in maintaining fairness and safety in sports, share personal journeys and memorable moments from their officiating careers, and explore the qualities that make a good official. The conversation also delves into the mental and physical preparation required for officiating, the challenges of making quick decisions under pressure, and the balance between game management and technical correctness. Through their insights, the officials aim to raise awareness about the importance of their role in youth sports and encourage more individuals to step up as referees. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of safety in hockey, particularly regarding body checking and the differences between minor and men's hockey. They emphasize the need for respect towards officials and the challenges faced by young referees. The discussion also covers the evolution of body checking rules, the emotional dynamics between coaches and referees, and the significance of maintaining game integrity. The speakers provide valuable advice for aspiring officials, highlighting the importance of love for the game, continuous learning, and the need to stay humble in the officiating profession.

    1h 17m

  2. 2025-11-22

    SPD Episode 9: "Growing in Christ and in Sport"

    In this episode, host Brad Burton discusses the intersection of faith and sports with guests Tom Pettigrew and Aaron Armstrong. They share their personal journeys as Christian athletes, the challenges they faced, and the defining moments that shaped their faith. The conversation explores the impact of injuries on their athletic careers, the importance of loving one's neighbor in competition, and offers valuable advice for young athletes navigating their faith in the sports world.

    1h 8m

  3. 2025-11-08

    SPD Episode 8: "Coaching Philosophy and Team Dynamics"

    In this episode, host Brad Burton and guests Joel Riley, Garrett Skinn and Russell Sutton discuss coaching philosophies, team dynamics, and the impact of experience in sports. They reflect on the recent World Series, share their coaching styles, and emphasize the importance of player development and handling adversity. The conversation highlights the need for adaptability in coaching and the significance of building team chemistry. In this conversation, the coaches discuss the various aspects of coaching, including navigating adversity, setting expectations, and the importance of commitment in sports. They emphasize the need for effective communication, balancing academics with athletics, and adapting coaching styles based on team dynamics. The discussion also touches on the significance of mentorship and continuous learning for coaches, providing valuable insights for those entering the field.

    1h 40m

  4. 2025-10-30

    SPD Episode 7: "God and Sport: A Well-Fit Relationship"

    In this episode, host Brad Burton and guest Pastor Terry Norris explore the intersection of sports and faith, discussing the importance of maintaining a relationship with God while being involved in sports. They delve into the role of Christians in sports, the potential for idolatry, and the significance of humility, obedience, and sacrifice. The conversation emphasizes the need for a healthy perspective on competition and the importance of character development through sports, ultimately framing sports as a platform for glorifying God.

    1h 18m

  5. 2025-10-18

    SPD Episode 6: "Politics and Sports"

    In this episode, host Brad Burton and guests Garrett Skinn and Lesley Zehr explore the intricate relationship between sports and politics, discussing how sports can influence political discourse and vice versa. They delve into the role of athletes as public figures, the impact of cancel culture on their freedom of speech, and the ethical implications of parental influence in youth sports. The conversation also touches on the concept of sports washing and its relevance in today's sporting world, ultimately questioning the future of politics in sports. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complex relationship between sports and politics, exploring how personal integrity, career trajectories, and the impact of political decisions shape the sports landscape. They discuss the importance of coaching through adversity, the butterfly effect in sports careers, and the challenges faced by athletes and coaches in maintaining their values amidst political pressures. The conversation highlights the need for integrity in sports and the potential consequences of political involvement on youth sports.

    1h 37m

  6. 2025-09-27

    SPD Episode 5: "Sport vs God: Tipping of the Scales"

    This conversation between host, Brad Burton and guest, Billy McGrail delves into the complex relationship between sports and faith, exploring how idolatry can manifest in the sporting world and the importance of maintaining a strong Christian identity as an athlete, parent, or coach. The speakers share personal experiences, discuss the societal pressures surrounding sports, and emphasize the need for balance between athletic pursuits and spiritual growth. They offerpractical advice for young Christian athletes and highlight the positive aspects of sports as a platform for faith and character development.

    1h 31m

  7. 2025-04-29

    SPD Episode 4: "Choosing the Right Path for Your Athlete:

    In this episode of the Sport Perspective Development podcast, host Brad Burton and guest Brian Hawley discuss the complexities of guiding young athletes in their sports journey. They explore the importance of parental involvement, the significance of allowing children to choose their sports, and the balance between competition and enjoyment. The conversation emphasizes the need for patience in recognizing a child's potential and the value of diverse athletic experiences before specializing in a single sport. In this conversation, Brian and Brad discuss the multifaceted journey of young athletes in competitive sports. They emphasize the importance of multi-sport participation, the need for parents to facilitate rather than dictate their children's athletic paths, and the significance of identifying a child's inner drive. The discussion also touches on the life lessons learned through sports, the dangers of parental expectations, and the non-linear nature of success in athletics. Ultimately, they advocate for a balanced approach to youth sports that prioritizes personal growth and enjoyment over pressure to succeed.

    1h 8m

  8. 2025-04-17

    SPD Episode 3: "Navigating Tryouts"

    In this episode, host Brad Burton and the panel, Garrett Skinn and Lesley Zehr, discuss the emotional landscape surrounding tryouts in sports, exploring personal experiences, expectations, and the pressures faced by athletes and parents. They delve into the importance of resilience, understanding the evaluation process, and the dynamics of team selection. The conversation highlights the life lessons learned through sports and the significance of focusing on the journey rather than just the outcome. The discussion also touches on the rising costs of sports and how it affects accessibility for aspiring athletes. Guidance is provided for families and athletes on handling rejection during tryouts, emphasizing the importance of mindset and preparation. The conversation concludes with insights on evaluating talent beyond just performance metrics and the significance of maintaining a positive relationship with sports throughout one's life.

    1h 31m
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About

Ascent Sports presents... Sport Perspective Development Working to further increase knowledge and awareness for (youth) athletes, parents, coaches and organizations. There are many avenues to find YOUR success playing the game you love. I want to share stories and offer advice that help educate, challenge and inspire you to be your very best! I hope you enjoy!

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