Some food for thought, that breeds success, as hockey sees it by Art Bevis

New Direction Hockey and The Hats Off Sports Group are both successful ventures that I presently own and operate and I choose my team of loyal people, based on skills from the game of hockey. This is how I see it and here are 10 reasons why. Enjoy.

1. Work Ethic

To play hockey is to work hard. Hockey players always take the road less traveled. Whereas in almost every other sport, players run around on solid ground, hockey players move around on razor-sharp skates atop rock-solid ice—a movement so unique it takes years of constant practice and dedication to master. Beyond skating, hockey players must learn the tedious task of stickhandling, passing, and shooting to round out the basic hockey skills of the game. Before you can even enjoy the simple joys of the game, you need to be able to hone those unique physical skills—a task most can’t be bothered with.

The entire essence of hockey is about reinventing oneself and starting from scratch. To begin playing the sport is like starting all over in life: It’s hard work, and only the most determined have the capacity to succeed.

2. Accountability

Like all athletes, hockey players understand the importance of accountability. Hockey is a sport of continuous improvement, with rule changes and new systems being implemented, and constant advances in equipment. In order to progress, hockey players embrace accountability to analyze their shortcomings and correct deficiencies. They understand their unique role and the importance of their specific job within the greater framework. They understand the impact of their decisions.

3. Importance of Strong Culture

More than ever, the importance of a strong workplace culture is paramount to success. With a struggling economy and increased competition in the marketplace, the landscape is as rigorous as ever. Companies such as Google have embraced the power of corporate culture and taken it to an entirely different level. In order to find flagship culture models, one doesn’t need to stray further than hockey culture. From pre-game rituals to playoff beards, hockey is full of idiosyncrasies designed to assimilate groups of varying individuals.

4. Importance of Teamwork

Without a doubt, there is not a team sport that exists right now that can hold a candle to the game of hockey, in its passion, complexity and honor. In no other sport do you see the type of selflessness, loyalty and dedication that is ingrained in hockey and its unique honor code that all players live by. When they put on their team jerseys, teammates from every walk of life put their differences and incompatibilities aside in the name of a shared goal. Teammates will stick up for one another, take punches to the face, and break bones blocking shots in order to achieve team-oriented goals. They may not necessarily be the best of friends, but rather individuals who understand the power of teamwork.

A hockey player will embrace the value of humility and sacrifice when it comes to casting their egos aside in favor of a utilitarian approach to achieving greatness. They understand that individual success is deeply linked to team success.

5. Internal Leadership

To succeed in hockey is to understand that it is better to rise up together as a team than to use your teammates’ shoulders to stand upon. The framework of hockey promotes the value of multiple roles and their equaled importance, and in doing so promotes internal leadership.

Hockey is the sport that celebrates the unsung hero. Whether you’re a goal scorer, penalty killer or an enforcer, the value of each role is celebrated within the culture. When the going gets rough, a team can’t simply look to the coach or the captain to pull them out of the hole.

Sometimes leadership comes in the strangest of forms. One year, one of my teammates—who barely ever said a word—came into the dressing room after aa game, during a terrible losing streak, put his dress shoes in the shower and set them on fire. He then turned to a bewildered dressing room and declared, “I knew those [bleeping’] shoes were bad luck.” We went out the next game and won, and then rattled off six wins in a row. After that streak, we took the mangled remains of the shoes and glued them to a plank of wood. The charred trophy became our good-luck charm and was handed out to the hardest worker after each game the rest of the season.

Hockey players understand that no matter what role you are in, you can do your part to contribute and help make everyone around you better. Leadership is not exclusive to managers, directors and CEOs. Internal leadership is the foundation to success and comes in many forms and from every level. No one understands this concept better than hockey players.

6. Importance of SMART Goals

The first time I ever learned about SMART (Specific, Measurable, Assignable, Realistic, Time-Based) was when I was 15 years old playing hockey in Etobicoke, Ontario, I was called up to play with the Toronto Marlboros in the OHA. (The Ontario Hockey Association later became the OHL in 1980) I broke my femur in a game that year, ending my chances at ever being in the NHL, but from that moment on, developing SMART Goals became a primary function of my preparation in life, from hockey to school to work. In hockey, we learned to always break down everything into smaller components (segments). Each game was broken down into segments and goals were mapped out. At the end of each game, each week, each month and each season, we were able to chart our successes and evaluate our performances.

As I moved on in life, SMART Goals allowed me to reach higher levels, continuously improving my focus and preparation. When I was 22 years old, I had been married for one year, my oldest daughter was born, I was preparing to buy my first of five homes and I was working in the “real world,” for a major public utility. This SMART concept was being “introduced” to us in process-improvement meetings. While others were frantically jotting down notes, I was smiling and nodding. This was nothing new to me and was something that was deeply ingrained in my day-to-day thought process as a teen in the hockey world.

7. Value of Preparation

One of the major differences between good athletes and elite athletes is preparation. For hockey players, preparation—both physical and mental—is the springboard for productivity. Preparing your body, by training and honing your skills, develops the necessary tools to complete the tasks at hand. Preparing your mind, by developing routines and employing mental training techniques, helps to ensure that you are focusing and operating at a peak level mentally.

Having the tools needed to succeed, a plan to follow, and a clear goal in mind is the recipe for success in any venture, whether it’s business or sport. Preparation is the gateway to success.

8. Attention to Detail

Most people don’t realize that hockey is a highly strategic and cerebral sport. From system play, to reading the flow and pace of a game, players are constantly in a state of analysis. Goalies keep journals on players and teams, studying which power play formations they use; which players’ teams use as their main shooting options; and from which location on the ice. Coaches analyze everything their opponents do and formulate responses to combat strategic systems. Every aspect of the game of hockey—from faceoff alignment to fore-checks, to penalty-kill formations—are strategically crafted, practiced, perfected and implemented. These plans are created, modified and recreated over and over again. Hockey players require an acute ability to pay close attention to detail.

9. Proactivity

Hockey players must have the ability to read a situation, while tapping into an accumulation of specific knowledge and take initiative. In hockey, best-laid plans are often scrapped. This is how the term “Hockey Sense” was conceived. When the system breaks down, great players are able to be proactive and read and react to the situation. They are able to quickly assess a situation, determine the best course of action and then execute, all in a split second. Being proactive is essential to any great player’s success. An example of proactivity in hockey is “Gretzky’s Office.” The Great One was able to read the game and find a loophole. He took the initiative to think outside the box and discover a way to beneficially exploit a situation. In the “real world,” especially in a time of economic uncertainty, being proactive is a highly valuable commodity.

10. Perseverance

In a sport like hockey, where the letdowns overwhelmingly outweigh the triumphs, it takes a special kind of individual to say, “Hey, I love this!” In a word, hockey is all about Perseverance. It’s being able to face adversity, get knocked down and bounce back stronger. It’s being able to face insurmountable odds and feel a strong sense of hope.

When I first started working in the real world, everyone was always complaining about job security. They were constantly operating on a foundation built upon fear. People would turn to me and say, “What the hell are you smiling about? Didn’t you hear we could all lose our jobs?” To which I would reply, “If I was still playing hockey in the minor leagues, the money is crap and contracts can be terminated at a moment’s notice.” Compared to that, this is a cakewalk.” I had the mentality that if I laid it all on the line, I would rise to the top. I wasn’t going to roll over and play dead for anyone, and I believed in my skill set and that paved my way to successes that I never dreamed of. . . and for that, I am truly grateful.

The hockey world is littered with stories of failure followed up by stories of triumphant redemption. The real world is no different.

The 2026 SUMMER SEASON IS WELL ON IT'S WAY TO BEING THE BEST YET!

NDH 2025 SUMMER HOCKEY is officially over. We maxed out with a waiting list. More teams and larger divisions which meant more games against different opponents.It was exciting. Our end of season banquet and award ceremony was at Wicked Eats on Tuesday September 2nd.  Lots of die hard league support from so many of you. For that, I am truly grateful. 

A bit of a recap of summer 2025

All games were LIVE and ON DEMAND - NDH is taking every step possible to be sure that all games are officiated without prejudice and every play is monitored. This safety tool will ensure a fair, unbiased and objective outcome in the case of malice on or off the ice.

NDH added several business Website corporate links to the right side of the front page – use this FREE service. Send me your link and I will include it on my front page of newdirectionhockey.com.

Wishing you all an amazing hockey experience, hoping to see you at our preseason bash on April 6th. 2026, once again, held at Wicked Eats in Aurora :) .

Art Bevis
artbevis@newdirectionhockey.com
hatsoffsports@hotmail.com
416-892-5748

Connor McDavid continues to amaze. NDH would like to congratulate Connor on his game winning GOLD medal goal in the 4 Nations tournament this past year. His on and off ice professionalism shows that he is not only the best player in the WORLD, but he is truly a gentleman with class all the way. Connor has played summers with NDH for several years and was back again in 2024. This was Connor's 8th summer season with New Direction Hockey, We didnt see Connor in 2019, as he was rehabilitating from his horrendous injury at the end of the 2018 season. His great play and positive attitude, along with his tremendous support of New Direction Hockey has inspired so many other great names from Pro hockey that have chosen to come and play some puck with us week after week in Newmarket. Great players such as, from the Edmonton Oilers, Leon Draisaitl, 2024 TEAM CANADA SELECTION, Arizona Coyotes superstar, Jack McBain, Dallas superstar, JASON ROBERTSON,  Minnesotta WILD's latest aquisition, Travis Dermott, Vacouver Canucks 4th round selection, Jordan Subban, World juniors 4 goal scorer and first rounder to the Flyers, Morgan Frost, the Av's Captain, Gabriel Landeskog, Ryan Murphy, Darren Archbald, Phil Giuseppe, Malcolm Subban, and James Livingston have chosen NDH to play summer hockey with us. We are also very proud to announce that our very own DYLAN SIKURA WAS ONE OF THE TOP PROSPECTS TO CANADA'S 2018 OLYMPIC TEAM and played for the Blackhawks in the 2019 Outdoor Classic hockey game at Notre Dame Stadium. It was sad to see   Josh Leivo   traded from the Leafs. He was a big supporter of NDH. We have 2 NHL CAPTAINS, several World Cup and Olympic athletes that have played in the league. We would also like to congratulate NDH all-star and World Cup u18 GOLD medalist QUINTON BYFIELD, who also plays with us. The 2024 NHL draft, Dallas Stars chose KEVIN HE, another up and coming player from NDH. Kevin is the first born Chineses-born player ever to sign a contract in the National Hockey League. Also a big congratulations to DENVER BARKEY. CHOSEN 3rd round by the Philedelphia Flyers.... what an honour!!  Its great fun watching the caliber of hockey that is played in our TIM HORTONS - PREMIER ELITE division on Wednesday nights. Come check it out.... 

We, at NDH, certainly wish great success to all the players that are reaching for the stars in so many hockey cities in North America, and hopefully we will, once again, see all thesE tremendous athletes year after year with New Direction Hockey at the Magna Center. Good Luck !!

 

Check out this compilation of hockey greatness that has honored us at New Direction Hockey over the last few years. Truly blessed to have shared the ice with all of you.

We will continue our summer hockey programs in 2025, again playing at The Magna Center in Newmarket. MAGNA is one of the finest facilities for Ice Hockey anywhere and we are proud to be part of the team there in the summer months. Along with a top notch facility to play out of, New Direction Hockey is dedicated first and foremost to the safety of its players. This means strictly enforced non-contact hockey with a zero tolerance policy. We provide a competitive league in a safe and friendly environment for people who have to go to work in the morning. Please carefully read and familiarize yourself and your team with our rules.

Men's Adult Hockey programs are organized from a select few Ice Hockey facilities in and around the G.T.A. The emphasis is usually based on the numbers' game, with very little importance geared toward quality. Most Hockey teams are now recognizing this and are searching out for the best available place to play. Loyalty and dedication from a full team of quality people lays a strong foundation to a successful Men's League. It is my goal to enhance that reputation and maximize our standing with as many hockey players possible.

The New Direction Hockey philosophy has a very positive reputation in the recreational hockey industry and has been in operation for several decades. Along with a team of quality people that, together, we have over 80 years of experience in the "sphere" of recreational hockey.

In the G.T.A. the industry is a lot smaller than you may imagine. Recreational Hockey in the GTA is a very tight group. Team reps do their homework in this day and age. They want service, service, service and GOOD VALUE. They want the right people to provide this, and they know who is good and who is not. Teams and reps need a "heads up" as to the quality of people running their night out with the boys.

Hockey programs build successfully with the needs of the players being first and foremost. I remain confident that our high level of success will continue for us in this industry. I will continue to direct my energy toward a common goal of an unconditional commitment to you, to continuing to represent the best organized Men's Recreational Hockey Program in the G.T.A. I am forever grateful for your undying support.

With Sincerity,

Art Bevis
416-892-5748
Compare and register on line at www.newdirectionhockey.com

 

Our focus is the safety of every player and our emphasis is on fun! Don't forget to remind all your players that if they lose their mind on or off the ice, they will lose the priviledge to play hockey in this league. Teams learn very quickly that we mean business. Do Not Test us on this!

If you have any members of your team that you think may be an issue early or later in the schedule, tell them to stay home NOW.   They will embarrass you down the road, trust me !!

 

New Direction Hockey continues to support  Concussion awareness, partnering with Kerry Goulet and Former Philadelphia Flyers captain, Keith Primeau. www.stopconcussions.com
“With the increase in concussions and neurotrauma injuries, www.stopconcussions.com was created to educate parents, players and coaches in all sports in order to give sport back a conscience, to protect athletes worldwide.” Please link onto the site and begin to understand how fatal that this injury can be to you and to your family.......Play safe!!

Testimonials

What our players say about us . . .

 

Looking forward to another sweet summer!

Chris Forrester

Blades of Steel

 

Good Evening Art. Your league is truly one of a kind on every level and thank you for continuing to make it all happen.

Carter Eros

 

Hey Art. Everyone I know who plays in the league loves it, myself included. Can’t wait for puck drop this season.

Dawson Doner

 

“Art – just want to say ahead of time that the Chiefs are appreciative of NDH and everything you guys do. It’s the highlight of the week for many of us in the summer (me included). Even through scheduling and ice challenges this year, you guys were still able to coordinate a great season with solid refereeing and a great program overall and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
Dane Flynn 

The Chiefs Hockey Club

 

My favorite time of the season is always seeing your email invite for summer hockey Art! The Ice Fauckers will be back for another amazing season. Monday 35+ division please.

Josh Delong

 

“Thanks Art. You and the NDH team run the best summer hockey program around. I’ve put the pre-season meeting in my calendar and always look forward to seeing you.

Steven Foss

 

“Thanks so much Art. You run a great show and I am happy to be part of it. Thank you”,

Dave Bartley

 

“The boys had a blast last summer in our first year with NDH. We will definitely be back summer aftersummer.”

“Thanks again art”, 
Brett Joslin , Jozy Boyz

 

“Art., You run a great league which is why everyone comes back every year.  Thanks for keeping it going!”

Thanks again,

Dave Abraham

 

“Looking forward to another great season with NDH this summer.” 

Ryan Da Silva

 

“It's been a blast being a part of New Direction for so many years and I hope to be back in the coming years at some point. All the best going forward and thank you for everything you've done to make New Direction a league I was proud to be a part of.”

Ryan Abush

 

 “Thanks for everything you've done so far Art, I'm looking forward to another fantastic season of NDH summer hockey. The refs do a great job each and every night. Calling a fair, balanced game, no real soft penalties but calling what should be called. Excellent job all around!Thanks Art.”

Cheers

Nick Gundert

 

 ‘I wanted to take a few minutes to thank you and all the conveners on a job well done!  You guys are the best. Also want to thank the referees... what a tough and thankless job! As a whole, hockey players are great guys/girls off and on the ice but for some when we put our protective helmets on, spikes enter our brains and we lose touch with reality... I know I've been guilty of this on a few occasions. The referees for the most part understand this and will give us an opportunity for redemption ... But don't do it again.

You guys have done a great job of reminding us all why we play and for me that's one reason for your success. The other reasons is your constant communication, your high level of engagement, and your (including the conveners) expectations for accountability and respect to the league and the city of Newmarket; a great recipe for success. To me this also explains why more teams what to join NDH, every year.

Congratulations on an other successful year. Thank you for the camaraderie, the beer and BBQs. You guys manage a great league.”

Louis Chatel

 

 “you’re awesome, thanks for doing what you do for this league Art, really appreciate it.”                                                                              

Josh Raymer

 

 “Thank you again Art, for everything. Really above and beyond.” 

Josh Delong

 

 “Just wanted to say, Thanks Art! The boys really appreciate everything you do.”                                                                              

Adam Johnson

 

“It’s an amazing league to both referee and play in. you’re doing everything right and we’re thankful that you’re willing to have us in your amazing league!”

Carmelo Sortino

 

“Thanks again for a great season. I have seen the growth and it is exciting to be a part of. We will be back in full force next year. Cheers to another amazing year with NDH!”                                                 

Nathan Vieira

 

“Summer was an awesome success. Congrats and well done!”

Louis Chatel

 

“Thanks for all your hard work. All my buddy’s really appreciated how clean and organized the league was this past season. We will be back next year. Sorry I couldn't make things work and attend the banquet last night, it is an honour to have even been considered for the **President’s award. Thanks again for another great season, we're already looking forward to next year!”                                               

Adam Johnson

**The President’s award is presented at the end of year banquet and is for players or team reps that have represented their teams and the league with a high level of professionalism, with integrity, great teamwork and supported and applied the type of “recreational” philosophy that we all want for in a hockey league

 

“As always, thanks for all the work you guys do to run so many successful leagues.”                                                                            

Ryan Sheppard

 

“The Chiefs are in, as always. I so look forward to playing summer hockey with NDH. It is the highlight of the summer for lots of us.”

Dane Flynn

 

“Always a great sight to see your email inviting teams for another season of summer hockey with NDH. Wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

Luke Coates

 

“It is always a great day when your email hits my inbox, “NDH is back and ready for 2024.” Fantastic, can’t wait.”

Tim Haid

 

“We are absolutely in for another season. Thanks for continuing to put together a great league Art. Win or lose, we love it and have fun.”

Cody Rennie

 

“You are awesome Thank’s for reaching out and reminding me about hockey. Yes! Count me in for Mondays. Love it. Very much appreciated.”

Dave Bartley

 

“Yeah! Putting me on that team couldn’t have worked out better. 

I really appreciate you art, really looking forward to playing again this season!”

Mack Fulton

 

“Art, this is a great league. And the schedule … way better game times than previous years! You're doing awesome work as usual.”

Tyler de Roeper

 

“Thanks for everything Art! You’re the man. I really appreciate everything you do!”

Keegan Matthew

 

“We are absolutely loving the league so far, it’s a lot of fun, great games. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to play in your league.”

John Pacione

 

“It’s such a 1^st class league, with no bull shit. The boys really love it.”

Chris Humphries

 

“Found the league to be well run, Good skill distribution among teams and, from our experience, a very friendly league overall”

Dylan Frederiks

 

“Thanks for another great summer.”

Brett Joslin 

Jozy Boyz 

Please continue to frequent the following "Watering Holes" - Remember to SUPPORT SLEEMAN PRODUCTS       

TINAS GRILL -  330 McClennan Way - Tina's Grill – Bar and Grill (tinasgrill.com)

THE LION PUB - 1091 Gorham St. -     Home | Lion Pub and Grill    

WICKED EATS - 15570 Yonge St, Aurora, ON L4G 1P2 - HOME : Wicked Eats