Former NHL defenseman Mike Weaver joins The Leverett Ball Show to reflect on a career defined by perseverance, resilience, and determination. Despite going undrafted, Weaver carved out an impressive 633-game NHL career, playing for the Atlanta Thrashers, Los Angeles Kings, Vancouver Canucks, St. Louis Blues, Florida Panthers, and Montreal Canadiens. He shares how visualization, hard work, and refusing to let setbacks define him helped him beat the odds and establish himself at the highest level of professional hockey.
Weaver also looks back on memorable moments from his NHL career, including playing alongside stars such as Carey Price and Trevor Linden, competing in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, and adapting to life with multiple organizations throughout his career. He offers insight into what it takes to earn the trust of coaches and teammates while building a long-lasting career in one of the world's toughest professional sports leagues.
After retiring from the NHL, Weaver transitioned into entrepreneurship by becoming the Co-Founder and CEO of CoachThem, a practice planning platform that helps hockey coaches design more effective practices. He also founded Defence First Hockey School, where he teaches young players the fundamentals of the game while encouraging creativity, decision-making, and a love for hockey.
Throughout the conversation, Weaver emphasizes the importance of preparing for life after professional sports, investing in education, learning from mistakes, and developing skills beyond the rink. Whether you're a hockey fan, coach, athlete, or aspiring entrepreneur, this interview offers valuable lessons on leadership, personal growth, and building success long after the final game.