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Hockey Psychology: Mental Toughness for Peak Performance

The Speed of Thought

Dr. John F. Murray with NHL All-Star Olli Jokinen celebrating his 1,000th game

In hockey, the difference between a goal and a turnover is measured in milliseconds. When a player is “in the zone,” the game slows down. When a player is in a slump, they are “paralyzed by analysis.” Dr. John F. Murray helps hockey players—from elite youth prospects to NHL veterans—eliminate mental clutter and play with instinctive, aggressive clarity.

The “Next Shift” Mentality

The greatest challenge in hockey is the short-term memory required to survive a 60-minute battle. Dr. Murray’s specialized training focuses on:

  • The Flush: A mental trigger used the moment you hit the bench to leave the last shift behind and prepare for the next 45 seconds of battle.
  • Arousal Regulation: Finding the “Sweet Spot” between high-intensity aggression and ice-cold tactical awareness.
  • Goalie-Specific Focus: Maintaining “The Zone” through long periods of inaction and resetting the clock immediately after allowing a goal.

Case Study: The All-Star Edge

A Five-Year Partnership with Olli Jokinen

For five consecutive years, Dr. John F. Murray was a foundational part of NHL All-Star Olli Jokinen’s game-day routine. Whether he was captaining the Florida Panthers or leading the Calgary Flames, Winnipeg Jets, and St. Louis Blues, Jokinen relied on Dr. Murray’s mental performance protocols before almost every single game.

The 1,000th Game Milestone To celebrate Jokinen’s legendary career milestone of 1,000 NHL games, Olli flew Dr. Murray to Calgary to join his family and teammates for the official ceremony. Witnessing the presentation of his silver and bronze commemorative sticks from the inner circle provided an unparalleled look at the discipline required for elite longevity.

Watch the Behind-the-Scenes Journey to Calgary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GUBA1cnV5F4

Watch the 1,000th Game Ceremony in Calgary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OnOWnl4_1aE

The Olympic Trust The depth of this partnership was further proven when Olli Jokinen represented Finland in the Sochi Olympics. He secured official credentials for Dr. Murray to join him in Russia as his mental performance coach—a testament to the vital role mental training plays on the world’s biggest stage.


Elevate Your Performance

Stop beating yourself and start beating your opponents. Whether you are looking to break a slump or reach the professional ranks, your mind is your most important piece of equipment.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. John F. Murray or call 561-596-9898

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2026 | Dr. John F. Murray | Licensed Psychologist & Sports Psychologist | Clinical & Mental Performance Coaching