Our team

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Nathan Bowen

NATHAN BOWEN

Chief Executive Officer

Born in Ontario, the game of hockey took Nathan to the University of Alabama-Huntsville where he played 4 years of NCAA hockey at the University of Alabama-Huntsville (UAH), winning the Division II National Championship in 1998 while captaining the team. Prior to graduating with a degree in Finance and later his MBA from UAH in 2002, Bowen was the recipient of the President's Award, given to the top athlete at UAH based on academic, community and athletic performance, as well as the Dr. Jeanne Fisher Award, the Civic Service award and the Iwin/McGraw-Hill Finance service award. Following his time as a student at UAH, Bowen has accumulated over 30 years of coaching, instruction and hockey leadership experience including four years serving as the UAH Hockey Assistant Coach. Currently, Bowen resides in Killen, AL with his wife Heather, daughter Bailey and son Mac.

Francis Anzalone

FRANCIS ANZALONE

Chief Operating Officer

After graduating Magna Cum Laude from the University of Pittsburgh, Anzalone has follow his passion for coaching and mentoring elite and aspiring elite athletes with experience coach hockey from the youth to junior 'A' levels, including the NAHL and USHL, with the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders, Aberdeen Wings and TPH partner, the Shreveport Mudbugs. In addition, he has coached overseas with the Latvian Hockey Federation, serving as an assistant coach with Team Latvia's U-20 program at the 2018 World Junior Hockey Championships. On top of his executive work with TPH, Anzalone heads up TPH's Mentorship program for all of its athletes.

Bill Simms

BILL SIMMS

Chief Academic Officer

Simms came to the TPH Team after spending 26 years in public education at Thurston High School.
There he taught in the classroom from 1993 to 2009 before being promoted to Principal at Thurston. His extensive experience in implementing online learning models within traditional brick and mortar settings, experience vital to the growth of the academic model within the TPH Center of Excellence. On top of his professional experience, academically Simms earned a Bachelors of Administration and Master's Degree in Public Administration from University of Michigan-Dearborn.

Jacqueline Keeso - 2021 Headshot

JACQUELINE KEESO

Chief Experience Officer

Jacqueline Keeso is the Chief Experience Officer for TPH and is responsible for the creation, execution, and integration of the overall customer experience. As CXO, she works to define and enhance TPH’s customer journey, finding new ways to delight TPH families and ensure a consistent, empowering experience for all student-athletes.

Jacqueline has a BBA of International Business from Boise State University and an MBA in Business Administration from the University of Oxford, UK. She also holds her Project Management Professional (PMP) certificate as well as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (LSSGB).

Taso Sofikitis

TASO SOFIKITIS

Investing Partner

Taso Sofikitis is an Investing Partner at TPH and the CEO and President of Maynards Group of Companies. Taso is originally from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and attended the University of Alabama in Huntsville. Taso was a defenseman for the UAH hockey team that won the Division II Hockey National Championship in 1996. During that season, Taso racked up 41 points (11G-30A) in 29 games.

Chris Powers

CHRIS POWERS

Director of Compliance & HR

Powers has coached youth and ACHA hockey over a twenty-year period. Additionally, he is on the Board of Directors for the Southern Amateur Hockey Association for twelve years and on the Board of Directors for USA Hockey for six years. Powers graduated with a BA in History from Kenyon College and JD from DePaul University. Powers also have been admitted to the Bar in the states of Illinois, Florida, Georgia, and California.

Nichelle Simon

NICHELLE SIMON

Director of Administration

Graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Georgia State University, Simon brings laser focus and structure to our team. Simon's hockey career took her to Shattuck St. Mary’s Prep, DIII hockey at both Hamline University and Neumann College, and to the NWHL playing with the Metropolitan Riveters for the 2019-20 season. Simon has been instructing and coaching hockey for almost 20 years including started and manages the Southern Thunder national bound women’s hockey program. Aside from hockey, she has competed on American Ninja Warrior Season 9 (2017) and 12 (2020).

Audrey Forman

AUDREY FORMAN

Director of Accounting & Finance

Attending the University of Alabama-Huntsville on a softball scholarship, Forman now lives in Danville, AL with her husband and two daughters.

Jason Deskins (1)

JASON DESKINS

Director, National Recruiting

Jason Deskins, a native of Warren, MI, is the Director, National Recruiting. Deskins leads the recruiting process across TPH, supporting TPH team members in their recruiting efforts. Deskins brings over 10 years of sales experience to TPH, having spent the last decade providing business-to-business sales expertise for multiple companies in the health care industry. During this span, Deskins has also dedicated himself as a coach and scout in various hockey circles. Since 2009, Deskins has coached with various Detroit Tier I and Tier II youth associations and has served as a Scout, Director of Scouting and Assistant General Manager for various junior programs including the Port Huron Falcons and Maryland Black Bears of the NAHL, and presently, the Omaha Lancers of the USHL. A 2002 graduate of Miami University, Deskins played four seasons of NCAA Division I hockey for the Red Hawks, before spending parts of four seasons competing at the professional level.

Anthony Golio

ANTHONY GOLIO

Manager of Marketing

Born in Hendersonville, TN, Golio grew up playing the majority of his youth hockey in the southeast. In over 15 years of a competitive playing career at the AAA, junior (MJHL, NA3HL, and WSHL), and collegiate (ACHA) levels, Golio attended Hamline University in Saint. Paul, MN. Following his time pursuing his Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Golio was accepted to The Ohio State University where he joined the Sports Management program and served as the Special Events Graduate Assistant for the Recreational Sports department.

Tom Badenski

TOM BADENSKI

Manager of Operations

Tom Badenski, a Michigan native, is the Manager of Operations at the TPH Center of Excellence in Detroit. Badenski has several years of coaching experience including time with St. Ignace Saints and Bullson Bulldogs.

Riitta Widelski

RIITTA WIDELSKI

Manager of People, Culture, and Development

Riitta Widelski, a native of Finland, is the Manager of People, Culture, and Development for TPH.  Riitta has been working in various Human Resources roles since 2003, including employee relations, recruiting, leadership training, and mentoring, as well as performed first-hand work in administration, compliance, and policy implementation.  She received a Master of Human Resources and International Master of Business Administration degrees from the University of South Carolina.  She also holds two Human Resources certifications and is a certified life coach.  In addition, Riitta serves as an Assistant Scoutmaster and Merit Badge Counselor for a local Boy Scout troop, and she is an avid fisher.

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SARAH BULLINGTON

Coordinator of Academics

Sarah Bullington has credentials that consist of a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Central Michigan University. She received her Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Madonna in 2014. Before TPH, Bullington taught in South Redford for eight and a half years. She was also the Director of Academics for TPH Detroit for three and a half years before transitioning to her current role as Academic Coordinator within the TPH Hub and assists Bill Simms, the Chief Academic Officer. In this role, Bullington provides academic support to our Centers of Excellence across the nation and works closely with Edmentum, our school partner.

Hanna Grace Hill

HANNA GRACE HILL

Coordinator of Accounting & Finance

A native of Erie, Pennsylvania. Hill served as an Intern with the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Hockey League (PIHL) in Event Operations and Marketing during in-season events and the PA State Championships during the spring of 2018. Since Hill spent the past 1.5 years as an Administrative Assistant in Pittsburgh for CMMI Institute, a global leader in enabling organizations to elevate and benchmark performances across critical business practices before joining the TPH Team.

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CHRISTA LONG

Coordinator of Accounting & Finance

Christa Long graduated from Athens State University with an Accounting Degree. Before TPH, Long worked in the medical field for eight years. She currently resides in Hartselle, AL, with her daughter.

Trista Johnson

TRISTA JOHNSON

Coordinator of Adminstration

Trista Johnson, a native of Sun Valley, Idaho, grew up playing hockey, racing BMX, and swimming competitively. She graduated from the University of Oregon and currently lives in Louisville, KY with her boyfriend, son, and daughter.

Daniela Peele

DANIELA PEELE

Administrative Assistant

A native of Huntsville, Alabama with a love for all things sports, Peele brings over 18 years of administrative experience to the TPH team. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Berry College and holds a Masters of Divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary. Peele has played recreational hockey, soccer, and softball but now finds herself cheerleading most of the time.

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BREANNA CECIL

Sports Dietitian

Breanna Cecil is a Registered Dietitian and attended the University of Kentucky where she received her Bachelors of Science in Dietetics while working with the UK Football Team. From there, she completed her Masters in Nutrition and Dietetic Internship with a concentration in Sports Nutrition while she was an intern at Vanderbilt University working with the baseball, football and basketball teams. She has worked with numerous Division 1 athletes across the country in various sports.

Frank Anzalone

FRANK ANZALONE

Hockey Athlete Development & Coaching Education

John Becanic

JOHN BECANIC

Managing Partner, The Prospect Exchange / Hockey IQ & Coaching Education

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ERIC SMITH

Special Assistant to the TPH Hub

Patrick O'Neill

PAT O'NEILL

Executive Director

Born and raised in Freeport, Illinois, O'Neill earned his Bachelors and Master’s degree in Education from Illinois State University, as well as his Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Augusta University. With over a decade as a high school educator, four years as a high school principal, and a decade e working in training and business development and operations, O'Neill brings plenty of experience and knowledge to the Center of Excellence.

Brad Schell

Brad Schell

Director and Head of Hockey

Coach Schell grew up in Scott, Saskatchewan and played AAA in western Canada. Upon finishing his youth career, Brad was drafted by the Spokane Chiefs of the WHL. He played four seasons for the Chiefs including the 2003-2004 where he led the team in scoring with 92 points. Schell was selected by the Atlanta Thrashers in 6th round in the 2002 NHL draft. Known as prolific scorer, Coach Schell scored a staggering 110 points in 63 games during the 2006-2007 season for the Gwinnett Gladiators in ECHL. He currently resides in Atlanta, GA with his wife Kim and two sons, Ryder and Gavin.

Sunsea Williams

SUNSEA WILLIAMS

Director of Academics

Born and raised in South Bend, IN, Sunsea is a 2x Northern Illinois University Graduate, holding a Bachelors in Sociology and Masters in Adult and Higher Education. While at Northern Illinois University, Sunsea ran track and field and cross country. Previously, she spent the last four years working in Student-Athlete Academic Support Services at Georgia Tech. Served as an Academic Coordinator (2015-2017) and Assistant Director of Academic Programs (2017-2019). Prior to Georgia Tech, Sunsea spent a year as the Athletic Academic Advisor at Jacksonville State University.

Kevin Montgomery

KEVIN MONTGOMERY

Player Development Coach & Mentor

Coach Montgomery originally hails from Rochester, NY. Prior to joining the United States National Team Development Program where his team won gold, Montgomery played AAA hockey with the Buffalo Saints and then spent a year in the OPJHL with the Syracuse Jr. Stars. While with the USNTDP, he represented Team USA in two World Junior Championships. He then went on to play one year at The Ohio State University prior to joining the London Knights of the OHL for three seasons. Montgomery then spent the next decade as a pro playing in various leagues including the AHL and ECHL.

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Thomas Frazee

Player Development Coach & Mentor

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Eric Neiley

Academic Success Coach

Rob Rassey

ROB RASSEY

Director & Head of Hockey

Rassey, who originates from Shelby Township, MI, carries involvement in hockey from competing for the Huskies Men’s Ice Hockey team at Northeastern University in Boston, MA to the Youngstown Phantoms of the United States Hockey League (USHL), and for the North American Hockey League (NAHL), where he was a two-time captain. Rassey is the first individual to depart from the National Hockey League (NHL) to join the TPH team making this a special opportunity for both Rassey and the Chicago CoE. Following an impressive two-year season as an amateur scout for the Detroit Red Wings, Rassey will bring much knowledge from the NHL organization.

During his time at Northeastern from the 2005-2009 season, Rassey’s successful collegiate career encompassed an impressive track record as a four-time letterman, four-time Hockey East Academic Honor Roll recipient, as well as earning the 2008 Coaches’ Award for loyalty and friendship. Rassey assisted in setting university records for the program and earning the school’s first NCAA tournament bid in more than 20 years. Following graduation, Rassey pivoted as a volunteer coach for his alma mater. Additionally, he has credentials that consist of a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance and Management and graduated Magna Cum Laude.

Kerri Grimes

KERRI GRIMES

Head of Academics

A Rhode Island native raised in South Carolina, Grimes earned her Bachelor's Degree in Health Science from Clemson University
and a Master's Degree in Physical Therapy from Emory University. Grimes has practiced as a Physical Therapist for 17 years predominately with a focus in Pediatric PT for children with special needs and in-home care, with a focus on post-operative orthopedic rehab. In the academic area, she has 4 years of experience homeschooling and facilitated virtual learning at home with her children and previously worked at our Nashville location as an Academic Success Coach.

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EMILY BRUNS

Academic Success Coach / Coordinator of Operations & Programming

Jacqueline Keeso is the Chief Experience Officer for TPH and is responsible for the creation, execution, and integration of the overall customer experience. As CXO, she works to define and enhance TPH’s customer journey, finding new ways to delight TPH families and ensure a consistent, empowering experience for all student-athletes.

Jacqueline has a BBA of International Business from Boise State University and an MBA in Business Administration from the University of Oxford, UK. She also holds her Project Management Professional (PMP) certificate as well as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (LSSGB).

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Doug Holewa

Player Development Coach & Mentor

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Karl Linden

Player Development Coach & Mentor

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Mike Monti

Player Development Coach & Mentor

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Robbie Murden

Player Development Coach & Mentor

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Topher Scott

Player Development Coach & Mentor

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Ryan Ward

Player Development Coach & Mentor

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Elizabeth Wauters

Academic Success Coach

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Jessica Campbell

Skills Coach

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Red Brow

Goaltending Coach

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Joel Meloni

Strength and Conditioning Coach

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Madeline Bobinski

Strength & Conditioning Intern

Angelo Ricci

ANGELO RICCI

Partner

Ricci, a former University of Denver Pioneer and current Philadelphia Flyers Skills Coach, has over 2 decades of coaching experience. Ricci is currently the Executive Director for the Colorado Thunderbirds Tier 1 Hockey Club and is also the Founder of Ricci Hockey Consulting.

Jordan Pietrus

JORDAN PIETRUS

Executive Director

A graduate of Brown University with an MBA in International Business from Coventry University, Pietrus has no shortage of achievements including being named to the ECAC All-Academic team, voted a finalist for the Ivy League Student-Athlete of the Year, awarded NCAA Hockey Humanitarian Finalist, and awarded the 2010 NCAA Derek Hines Unsung Hero Award. While competing for Coventry in the EIHL and pursuing his MBA, Pietrus served as a lecturer in Undergraduate and Masters levels courses at Coventry University.

After wrapping up a nine-year professional playing career that in ECHL (South Carolina, Trenton and Elmira) and overseas (England, Poland and Denmark), Pietrus led the charge in launching the first TPH Center of Excellence west of the Mississippi River.  After one year at our Denver location Pietrus has stepped up to help lead all of our Colorado locations. The Winnipeg native has now made Colorado his home with his wife and daughter.

Jay Sprague

JAY SPRAGUE

Director & Head of Hockey

Sprague has walked the path that most CoE students would like to take, preparing him perfectly to lead the student-athletes at TPH-Denver. Sprague attended and played hockey for IMG Academy before moving on to a Junior Hockey career in the USHL. Sprague earned an athletic scholarship at Michigan State University where he was a member of the 2007 NCAA National Championship team. After finishing college, Jay went on to play professionally in the ECHL and CHL before he eventually decided to transition from a career as a player to a career as a coach and mentor.

 
Most recently Sprague has served as the Director of Skills Development for Defense First Hockey School in Toronto. Working under the tutelage of former NHL blueliner, Mike Weaver, Sprague has had the opportunity to learn from one of the top Defenseman coaches in North America and has spent time coaching some of the top players in Canada. Sprague has also devoted time coaching both male and female players throughout the youth and college ranks. Starting with an assistant coaching role at Ryerson University in Toronto, he proceeded to lead teams at SUNY Cortland in upstate New York and then served as the Girl’s Head Coach at Nichols School a prep school in Buffalo, NY. Now as a member of the TPH family, he’s thrilled to have the opportunity to empower the next generation of up-and-coming hockey players in Colorado.
Jeff Jentz

JEFF JENTZ

Head of Academics

As the Head of Academics, Jentz brings 16 years of experience teaching in Middle and High School in Fargo (ND), Littleton, Douglas County, and Elizabeth Public Schools. He has a BA Secondary Social Studies Education from Concordia College (MN) with a Special Education Endorsement from the University of Colorado Denver. Jentz is also a 2x Apple Award Nominee, eInstruction CPS Engaging Kids to Learn Grant Recipient, Disney Teacher of the Year Award Nominee, and Intel Teach to the Future Grant Recipient.

What really makes Jentz a perfect fit for the TPH Center of Excellence is his experience with sports. Jentz played NCAA Division III hockey at Concordia College. Following his playing career, Jentz went on to a 24 years Youth Hockey Coach in North Dakota and Colorado/ Rec Hockey Director AYHL which includes 7x State Champion Coach, 3x RMD Finalist, 2x National Championship Qualifier.

Ryan Massa

RYAN MASSA

Goaltending Coach

Massa is a Littleton, CO native who manned the pipes in the Colorado Thunderbirds and Rampage programs before going on to play two seasons in the NAHL and USHL with Bismarck and Fargo. Following junior hockey, Massa attended the University of Nebraska-Omaha where he played four seasons which led to two seasons in the Toronto Maple Leaf's organization with the Orlando Solar Bears of the ECHL. Additionally, Massa is the co-founder of Elite Edge Athlete.

Jared Bussard

JARED BUSSARD

Player Development Coach & Mentor

From Berlin, Pennsylvania, and grew up playing in the rinks of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, Bussard brings energy to Colorado. Bussard's experience through education and collegiate athletics is a model for balance and how we want our students to not have to sacrifice one for the other, but instead excel across both with hard work.

Bussard earned a BA in Sports Management (Summa Cum Laude) and an MBA in General Business from Lindenwood University where he was the captain and letterman all four seasons.

Ryan Cole

RYAN COLE

Player Development Coach & Mentor

Cole grew up in Highlands Ranch, CO playing defense for the Colorado Thunderbirds and Rampage programs. Following youth hockey, Cole went on to play 2 years of junior hockey in the NAHL and WSHL, followed by graduating from Miami University with a degree in Marketing and Business Analytics before getting into coaching. Starting at the youth level in 2017 with the Colorado Rampage, Cole has since continued skill development with skaters and goalies at the TPH Center of Excellence and also as the Co-founder of Elite Edge Athlete.

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MICHAEL ANTON

Player Development Coach & Mentor

A native of Littleton, Colorado, Michael Anton played for the Colorado Thunderbirds for seven years. As someone quite familiar with the area and sport, Anton enjoys working with TPH Denver student-athletes as they train to become elite.

In his free time, he enjoys creating graphic design edits of hockey players from various levels.

Tiffany Silverberg

TIFFANY SILVERBERG

Academic Success Coach

A native of Miami, Florida Silverberg, attended Florida International University and earned her Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science. For sixteen years, Silverberg has been a middle school science educator and has a background in teaching in traditional brick-and-mortar schools and online settings. Currently, she is an Academic Success Coach for TPH Denver and holds a Colorado State teaching license. In her spare time, she loves to read and watch sports, especially basketball - go Nuggets!

Chase Engdahl

CHASE ENGDAHL

Strength and Conditioning Coach

Chase’s extensive sports performance education and qualifications include earning his Master’s degree in Applied Exercise Science, holding his Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist certification through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, and previously completing his undergraduate studies in Kinesiology at Colorado Mesa University.  His practical experience and expertise primarily involve working with hockey players of all ages. In addition, Chase has been fortunate to learn from and work with some of the best players and staff in the NHL for the past two years. Growing up he played a variety of sports, primarily excelling in hockey and soccer. Chase continues to learn from his mentors, peers and clients everyday and is excited to share his passion for human performance with the community.

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Chase enjoys going to sporting events and concerts with his girlfriend, playing hockey and spending time with friends and family.

Visit www.denverhumanperformance.com

Andy Howard

ANDY HOWARD

Strength and Conditioning Coach

Andy received his Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science from Western Colorado University and is currently pursuing his Master's in Exercise Physiology with a concentration in Strength and Conditioning from Concordia University Chicago.  Following the completion of his undergrad degree, Andy held internships with Severyn Sports and the National Strength and Conditioning Association where he trained a variety of athletes. He currently holds his CSCS and TSAC-F certifications and has experience training tactical populations such as SWAT and firefighters. After his internships, he spent the last year working for the Colorado Rampage as a strength and conditioning coach before joining Denver Human Performance. Growing up he played a wide range of sports, primarily excelling in ice hockey. Andy strives to make a difference in each athlete every day, both physically and mentally and is passionate about sharing his time and knowledge through sports performance.

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Andy's hobbies include fishing, camping, hunting, water sports, and playing hockey.

Visit www.denverhumanperformance.com

Denver Human Performance

JOEL BARRERAS

Strength & Conditioning Coach

Synapse Physical Therapy

SYNAPSE PHYSICAL THERAPY

Physical Therapy Partner

Dwayne Norris

DWAYNE NORRIS

Director of Hockey-Operation

Dwayne Norris, a native of St. John's, Newfoundland, is the Director of Hockey-Operation at the TPH Center of Excellence in Detroit. Norris played four seasons at Michigan State University from 1988-1992. While in college, he also played for Team Canada at the U20 World Junior Championships in 1990. Norris was selected by the Quebec Nordiques in the 7th round of the 1990 NHL draft. He made his professional debut in 1992 with the Halifax Citadels of the AHL. Norris' NHL debut came in the next season with the Québec Nordiques. His professional career then continued on through the 2007 season. Personally, Norris is married to wife Traci and has three sons- Cole, a sophomore at Ferris State, Josh, who was also selected by San Jose in the first round of the 2017 NHL draft and is currently a part of the Ottawa Senators organization, and Dalton, a U18 ‘AAA’ player who attends the Center of Excellence.

Rick Gadwa

RICK GADWA

Manager of Hockey Operations and Programming

Rick Gadwa, a native of Brighton, Michigan, is the Manager of Hockey Operations & Programming at the TPH Center of Excellence in Detroit. He graduated from Hartland High School, where he currently coaches the varsity boys hockey team. Gadwa is a graduate of Davenport University where he played three years of college hockey. He then went on to play semi-professional hockey for the Battle Creek Revolution in the AAHL. The father of three still resides in Brighton, Michigan.

Allison Anargyros

ALLISON ANARGYOS

Director of Academics

Allison Anargyros, a Michigan native, is the Director of Academics at the TPH Center of Excellence in Detroit. Anargyros has a deep background in athletics in education. Anargyros graduated with a BS in Psychology from Grand Valley State University and Masters degree in Higher Education at the University of Louisville. While at Louisville, she served as a Graduate Assistant at Louisville in the Athletic Department where she gained experience as an Academic Adviser for student athletes.

During college, she taught technology classes as a parent engagement coordinator for Grand Rapids Public Schools. She also worked in the athletic departments while at the University of Louisville and then at Indiana University.

David Sellin

DAVID SELLIN

Coordinator of Operations & Programming

Native of Redford, Michigan, Sellin played Tier 1 and 2 youth hockey before playing two years for his local high school team as a junior and senior. From 2000-2004 he played junior hockey in various leagues in both Canada and the US, including the OPJHL and the NAHL. Following his hockey career David moved to out west living in Southern California and Oregon before moving back to his home state in 2017. He is now an assistant coach with the Hartland High School Boys Varsity hockey team and resides in Hartland, Michigan with his wife Asia.

Greg Wolfe

GREG WOLFE

Coordinator of Hockey Operations

Greg Wolfe, a native of Canton, Michigan, is a Player Development Coach & Mentor at the TPH Center of Excellence in Detroit. Wolfe played Tier I youth hockey for HoneyBaked and two years of USHL hockey for the Chicago Steel and Omaha Lancers. From 2010 to 2014, he played NCAA hockey for the Michigan State Spartans where he was captain for the final two season. In the 2013-14 season, he was awarded the Big Ten Medal of Honor and the Big Ten Sportsmanship Awards. Following his college career, he made his professional debut in 2014 with the Reading Royals of the ECHL. Wolfe was an ECHL All-Star in the 2016-17 and 2018-19 seasons.

Cameron Burt

CAMERON BURT

Coordinator of Hockey Operations

Cameron Burt, a native of Detroit, Michigan, is a Player Development Coach & Mentor at the TPH Center of Excellence in Detroit. Burt grew up playing with the Michigan Ice Dogs before starting his junior career in the former Eastern Junior Hockey League (EJHL). From there, Burt made the jump to the United States Hockey League (USHL) and earned a commitment to Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). In just his second year at RIT, Burt was awarded the NCAA AHA Tournament MVP and helped RIT claim the Atlantic Hockey championship. Burt then went on to play professionally with his most recent stop being with MAC Újbuda in Slovakia.

Blaise Fayolle

BLAISE FAYOLLE

Academic Success Coach

Blaise Fayolle is a Success Coach at the TPH Center of Excellence in Detroit. Fayolle is a former athlete and youth coach for middle and high school athletes with a deep background in sport and performance psychology. Fayolle has earned a BS in Psychology specializing in Coaching from Michigan State University, MA in Counseling specializing in Sport and Health Psychology from Adler University, Doctorate of Education in Sport and Performance Psychology from University of Western States
 and a Certification as a Mental Performance Consultant through the Association for Applied Sport Psychology.

Jeff Lerg

JEFF LERG

Goaltending Coach

Jeff Lerg, a native of Livonia, Michigan, is a Goaltending Coach at the TPH Center of Excellence in Detroit. Jeff Lerg played four years of NCAA hockey at Michigan State University from 2005 to 2009, where he won a National Championship in 2007. He was also a Hobey Baker Finalist in 2008. Throughout his career he received multiple awards: USHL Player of the Year, French League Goalie of the Year and ECHL All-Star.

Ryan Brindley

Ryan Brindley

Director & Head of Hockey

Brindley competed four years at Miami University where he graduated with a B.S. in Physical Education. Following college, he played nine professional seasons in four leagues (IHL, AHL, ECHL, and WPHL), before captaining the Florida Everblades ECHL team. Since the completion of his professional hockey career, Brindley coached for the Florida Jr. Everblades organization, capturing multiple state and league championships from 2009-2016.

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Andrew Locantora

Head of Academics

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Charles Crowley

Coordinator of Operations & Programming

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Matt Culot

Player Development Coach & Mentor

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Paige Carroll

Academic Success Coach

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Jordan Bustard

Goaltending Coach

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Charlie Linglet

Skills Coach

Macauley Lukenda

Macauley Lukenda

Director of Events

Macauley Lukenda comes to TPH following her time as the Program and Scheduling Assistant at Compton Family Ice Arena as part of Notre Dame Athletics. During that time, she also served as Notre Dame Figure Skating Club’s Team Assistant Coach, a power skating coach, Learn to Skate USA instructor and the Competition Chair for the 2021 U.S. Figure Skating Midwest and Pacific Coast Synchronized Skating Sectionals.

Lukenda received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Sport Management and Minor in Public Relations from Adrian College where she was a member of both the Varsity Figure Skating and Synchronized Skating teams. In 2017 & 2018, she was named national champion in figure skating.

Paul Healy

PAUL HEALEY

Director & Head of Hockey

Paul Healey, a native of Edmonton, Alberta, is the Director & Head of Hockey at the TPH Center of Excellence in Fort Lauderdale. Healey a former professional player with 15 years of experience competing at the NHL, AHL, ECHL, and European pro level has captured championships as a member of the AHL's s Philadelphia Phantoms in 1998, and then, 10 years later, while playing overseas in Slovenia with Jesenice.  A three-time captain with the AHL’s St. John’s Maple Leafs, Lowell Lock Monsters, and San Antonio Rampage, Healey concluded his professional career in 2010, having totaled over 1,000 games played.

Since 2011, Healey has served as Hockey Director for the Miami Toros organization, where he has also coached at the Tier II level.  In addition, Healey spent one season as the Assistant Coach with the ECHL's Florida Everblades and dedicates his time to mentoring Florida youth hockey players.

Tere Hernandez-Acosta (2)

DR. TERE HERNANDEZ-ACOSTA

Head of Academics

Hernández-Acosta has credentials that consist of a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations with Concentration in Business Administration from Loyola University, New Orleans, Louisiana, where she was also a member of the Women’s Soccer team. Additionally, she has a Master of Science in Educational Media and a Doctorate in Education with a Dual Concentration in Instructional Technology & Distance Education and Organizational Leadership from Nova Southeastern University, Miami, Florida.

In 2012, she was a recipient of the Francisco Walker “Teacher of the Year” award at Shenandoah Elementary School and committed her time as a Team Manager for the Miami Toros Ice Hockey 8U and 10U teams. Hernández-Acosta is bilingual in both Spanish and English and has a working knowledge of French.

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COLIN ALFIO

Strength & Conditioning Coach

Travis Richards

TRAVIS RICHARDS

Partner

Travis Richards, a native of Crystal, Minnesota, is a Partner at the TPH Center of Excellence in Grand Rapids. Richards played four season at the University of Minnesota for the Golden Gophers hockey team. In 1988, he was selected #169 overall by the Minnesota North Stars at the NHL Draft. He played 12 seasons of professional hockey, including 10 with the Grand Rapids Griffins, where his number 24 is retired still holding the record for most games played by a Griffin at 655. He currently coaches the U16 AAA Fox Motors team and resides in Grand Rapids with his wife and children.

Travis Richards

MIKE SLOBODNIK

Partner

Mike Slobodnik, a native of Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a Partner at the TPH Center of Excellence in Grand Rapids. Slobodnik played with the Cleveland Barons of the NAHL before going on to NCAA Division III hockey at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Slobodnik currently coaches Pee Wee Major 'AAA' for Fox Motors and is also the Head Coach of Grand Rapids Catholic Central High School. He still resides in the Grand Rapids area with his wife and children.

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TAYLOR KEYWORTH

Director

Taylor Keyworth, a native of Grand Rapids, Michigan, is the Director Hockey-Operation at the TPH Center of Excellence in Grand Rapids. Keyworth played four season of college hockey at Davenport University before becoming a coach. From 2015-20, Keyworth was an assistant coach for Aquinas College. In the 2019-20 season, he was the head coach of the Byron Center High School team. Keyworth is currently the head coach Fox Motors 13U AAA team.

Jennifer Marchand

JENNIFER MARCHAND

Head of Academics

Jennifer Marchand is the Director of Academics for the TPH Grand Rapids division. Jennifer has a Bachelor of Science with a focus on Secondary Education from Ferris State University. At FSU, she majored in English and minored in Biology. Prior to joining TPH, Jennifer taught at Lowell High School in Lowell, Michigan. Jennifer has a longstanding background in athletics as she has served as a varsity cheerleading coach for over a decade with experience at Reed City High School and Goodrich High School.

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RYAN KOSECKI

Head of Hockey

Ryan Kosecki, a native of Syracuse, New York, is a Player Development Coach & Mentor at the TPH Center of Excellence in Grand Rapids. Kosecki has many years of coaching experience including time in the NJPHL, NAPHL, NA3HL, USHL, NAHL and T1EHL. From 2018 to 2020, Kosecki served as an assistant coach for the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the USHL. He is current the head coach of the Fox Motors 15U AAA and the assistant general manager of the Maryland Black Bears in the NAHL.

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Josh Nelson

Head of Hockey

Mike Knuble

MIKE KNUBLE

Player Development Coach & Mentor

Mike Knuble, a Toronto, Ontario native, is a Player Development Coach & Mentor at the TPH Center of Excellence in Grand Rapids. Knuble is a Stanley Cup Champion (1997-98 Detroit Red Wings). Prior to his 16-year professional career, he competed for four years at the University of Michigan. In 1994 and 1995, he was named to the Second Team CCHA All-Star team. In 19995, he was named to the NCAA West All-American Team. Knuble currently Head Coach Fox Motors U15 AAA.

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KORY KARLANDER

Player Development Coach & Mentor

Kory Karlander, a native of Melita, Alberta, is a Player Development Coach & Mentor at the TPH Center of Excellence in Grand Rapids. Currently, Karlander is the Co-Hockey Director for the Fox Motors Hockey Club as well as a coach for two youth teams. Karlander played four seasons at Northern Michigan University. He made his professional debut with the Columbus Chill of the ECHL in 1996. Karlander's professional career went on to 2013 where he played in multiple leagues including the ECHL, IHL, AHL, UHL and CHL.

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DAVID VAN DRUNEN

Player Development Coach & Mentor

David Van Drunen, a Sherwood Park, Alberta native, is a Player Development Coach & Mentor at the TPH Center of Excellence in Grand Rapids. Following a four-year career with the Prince Albert Raiders of the WHL, Van Drunen made his professional hockey debut in 1997 with the Baton Rouge Kingfish of the ECHL. He then went on to enjoy a professional career through the 2010-11 season with time spent in multiple leagues including the ECHL, IHL, UHL, AHL and NHL. Van Drunen currently coaches with the Fox Motors Hockey Club.

Joe Messina

JOE MESSINA

Goaltending Coach

Joe Messina, a native of Grosse Pointe Park, Michigan, is a Goaltending Coach at the TPH Center of Excellence in Grand Rapids. Messina is a Shattuck St. Mary’s and SUNY Brockport (NCAA Division III) product. He's currently the Vice President of Operations for Bandits Goalie School in South Lyon, Michigan. Messina also oversees goaltending for numerous programs in Grand Rapids, including the Fox Motors Hockey Club and ACHA programs Davenport University, Aquinas College and Calvin College, among others.

Kyle Gagneau

KYLE GAGNEAU

Strength and Conditioning Coach

Kyle Gagneau is a lifelong hockey player with 12 years of experience in the fitness industry and serves as the Strength and Conditioning Coach at the TPH Center of Excellence in Grand Rapids. Gagneau has earned performance enhancement, corrective exercise and fitness nutrition specializations from NASM to better serve his athletes and clients.

Patrick O'Neill

PAT O'NEILL

Executive Director

Born and raised in Freeport, Illinois, O'Neill earned his Bachelors and Master’s degree in Education from Illinois State University, as well as his Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Augusta University. With over a decade as a high school educator, four years as a high school principal, and a decade e working in training and business development and operations, O'Neill brings plenty of experience and knowledge to the Center of Excellence.

Ryan McCormack

RYAN MCCORMACK

Director

Martain Kubaliak

MARTIN KUBALIAK

Head of Hockey/Manager of Operations & Programming

Martin Kubaliak is a native of Zvolen, Slovakia, where he played youth hockey. Upon coming to North America, Kubaliak played two seasons with the Medicine Hat Tigers of the WHL. He then turned pro and played in multiple leagues including the ECHL, CHL, and SPHL. Following his pro career, Kubaliak has been coaching various age groups, including his daughter's youth team, since 2014. He resides in Huntsville with his wife Larie, daughter Marlie and son Mason.

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KASSIE WHITAKER

Head of Academics

Kassie Whitaker is the Head of Academics for the TPH Center of Excellence in Huntsville. Whitaker graduated from Jacksonville State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and earned her Master’s Degree from the University of West Alabama. She specializes in instructing elementary and middle school level students.

Liz Aaron

LIZ AARON

Coordinator of Operations & Programming

Liz Aaron has been with TPH since 2014 and currently serves as the Coordinator of Operations & Programming at the TPH Center of Excellence in Huntsville. Liz graduated with a degree in journalism and has been a hockey mom for over 17 years.

Lucas Stern

LUCAS STERN

Player Development Coach & Mentor / Goaltending Coach

Lucas Stern is a Player Development Coach & Mentor / Goaltending Coach at the TPH Center of Excellence in Huntsville. A Minnesota native, Stern played youth hockey all the way through to college hockey in the ACHA. He also serves as Alabama's Goalie Development Coordinator for USA Hockey. Stern previously served as the Director of Hockey for the Memphis area.

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DARIN TAYLOR

Player Development Coach & Mentor

Darin Taylor is a Player Development Coach & Mentor at TPH Huntsville. Born and raised in Huntsville, Taylor played for the Huntsville Chargers organization for 13+ years. Taylor received a Bachelor of Biology with a focus on Exercise Physiology at the University of Alabama in Huntsville. He is ACSM certified as well as a Level 3 USA Hockey referee.

Earning many accolades and building upon great opportunities and relationships throughout the years, he has now dedicated himself to sharing the knowledge he has gained with the next generation of great hockey players. In his previous career Taylor has accomplished a high school hockey State Championship as well as was awarded Regional and International Silver Stick Champion and Kory Paries award recipient for a defensive player that exemplifies qualities and characteristics both on and off the ice.

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MELISSA BROWN

Academic Success Coach

Melissa Brown, a Colorado native, serves as an Academic Success Coach at the TPH Center of Excellence in Huntsville. Brown earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Auburn University in Human Development and Family Studies and her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Alabama A&M University.

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Judi Kremer

Director

A native of Syracuse, NY, Judi has been involved and managed youth sports programs, specifically hockey, for over 20 years. Judi not only serves as the Director for TPH Indianapolis Center of Excellence, but she is also the director for the Tri-State Spartans and program administrator for Indy, Central, and Spartans. She has her degree in psychology.  She lives in Indianapolis with her husband and two sons.

LeAnn Bird

LEANN BIRD

Head of Academics

In her previous positions, Bird has worked for three of the most prominent athletic departments in the country, including: Florida State University, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the University of Illinois. Her credentials consist of a Bachelor of Science in both Biology and General Science as well as Education and a Master of Art in Physical Education from Salem-Teikyo University in Salem, WV. She also holds records at the university as the third leading scorer in history for Women’s Basketball, was awarded Teacher of the Year from Bath County High School in Virginia, and was also awarded the 2008 Star Award for Outstanding Science Teacher in Las Vegas, NV. Bird earned certificates for Physical Education for grades 5-12 and Biology and General Science in grades 9-12.  

Pascal Morency

PASCAL MORENCY

Head of Hockey

Pascal played professionally for 12 years. Following his major junior career, he stepped into the pro ranks with the United Hockey League, ECHL, AHL, and overseas in the EBEL, the top league in Austria. His last season was with the Sheffield Steelers in the UK. Pascal began his coaching career following his retirement as a player. While coaching the Fernie Academy, he began a life coaching service to empower and mentor athletes on and off the ice. Pascal continued his coaching career in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and Junior AAA for 3 years before joining Total Package Hockey as a success coach.

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ANDREW KREMER

Player Development Coach / Mentor

Andrew played Tier I and II youth hockey in both Reading, PA, and Indianapolis, IN.  He went on to play junior hockey with the Syracuse Stars.  He has coached various levels of hockey from house to AAA.  One of his highlights is taking a team to Nationals.  He was the lead instructor at various local camps/clinics and was in high demand for private lessons prior to coming to TPH. 

Matt Cooke

MATT COOKE

Director and Head of Hockey

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Lindsey Hammerschmidt

Head of Academics

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Wilson Housley

Player Development Coach & Mentor

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Steve Alford

Strength & Conditioning Coach

Patrick O'Neill

PAT O'NEILL

Executive Director

Born and raised in Freeport, Illinois, O'Neill earned his Bachelors and Master’s degree in Education from Illinois State University, as well as his Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Augusta University. With over a decade as a high school educator, four years as a high school principal, and a decade e working in training and business development and operations, O'Neill brings plenty of experience and knowledge to the Center of Excellence.

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KARLIS ZIRNIS

Head of Hockey

A native of Riga, Latvia, Zirnis is no stranger to TPH, having previously served as a coach in the Thunder ‘AAA’ program following his retirement from the professional game in 2010. Since his first stint with TPH, Zirnis has enjoyed coaching stops at both the junior, collegiate, and international levels. He has captured a Robertson Cup Championship as Head Coach of the NAHL’s Shreveport Mudbugs, has spent the past three seasons as an Assistant Coach at the NCAA Division I level, first with the University of Alaska and then at his alma mater, the University of Alabama-Huntsville, and has coached with the Latvian Hockey Federation since 2014. Zirnis recently accepted a position as Director of Player Personnel for the NAHL’s Amarillo Wranglers, a role he will occupy while leading hockey for TPH in Nashville.

Jennifer Cubides

JENNIFER CUBIDES

Head of Academics

Jennifer Cubides was born and raised in Miami, FL. She attended Lesley University in Cambridge Massachusetts where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary education and Masters's degree as a Reading Specialist. Cubides has worked in multiple school settings with children of diverse backgrounds and needs, both in traditional and non-traditional learning environments. Cubides comes to TPH following her work at Edmentum as a teacher in the Elementary Department. As a bilingual individual, she believes education is a powerful tool that can innately prepare and enable students to grow intellectually as well as emotionally and socially.

Zack Jackson

ZACH JACKSON

Head of Operations & Programming

Before his time with TPH, Zach was the Assistant GM at the New England Sports Center, an 8 rink facility in Marlborough, MA. Before moving to Massachusetts, Zach went from Coordinator to Senior Hockey Manager while with the Nashville Predators from 2014-2018. There he helped created the foundation for youth hockey within the Ford Ice Center and started the Preds Select Travel program in addition to many other leagues and camps. He also served as the US Ambassador for Hockey Without Borders/Hockey Sans Frontieres. While with Hockey Without Borders, he coached within Subotica, Serbia HJ Spartak Hockey youth program, as well as, clinics/camps in Serbia, Bosnia, Hungary, Croatia, and Slovenia. Zach also served as the Hockey Director for Camp Laurel in Readfield, Maine from 2011-2013 and was the Assistant Men’s Ice Hockey Coach at the Florida Institute of Technology Club Hockey Team.

Zach ended his playing career after a brief season with HK Spartak in Subotica, Serbia within the Serbian Championship League. Before living in Europe, Zach played club hockey at James Madison University and spent his youth playing within the North Virginia Ice Dogs U-18 AA (CBHL) and Tri-City Eagles (CBHL) AA Youth Program in the Maryland/DC Metro Area. Zach was the recipient of the Washington Capitals Hobey Baker Character Award in 2007-2008, Maryland State Hockey Leagues Top-3 Player to Watch Honors in 2004-2005, and participated within the Swedish Development Camp for the Tri-City Eagles Exchange Program.

Tim McAllister

TIM MCALLISTER

Head Skills Coach

Tim McAllister is originally from Kingston, Ontario and serves as the Director of Hockey at the TPH Center of Excellence in Nashville.

Katie Baker

KATIE BAKER

Manager of Operations & Programming

Katie Baker brings a polished background from Kansas State University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management with an emphasis in Convention, Meeting & Event Management and a Minor in Business Administration. Baker began her career with Kansas State Athletics in April 2014, but soon after rose to an internship with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2016. There she participated in the grassroots marketing for the Chiefs while providing guest services to VIP patrons and family members. During her time with the Chiefs, Baker continued to work for Kansas State Athletics, until she climbed her way to Walt Disney World, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex as the Manager of Guest Operations. 

Teddy Rotenberger

TEDDY ROTENBERGER

Manager of Operations & Programming

Teddy Rotenberger is an alum of the Jr Predators program and currently serves as the Manager of Operations & Programming at the TPH Center of Excellence in Nashville. As a player, Rotenberger exemplified the student-athlete credo; he was a team captain annually as a youth hockey player and an outstanding student in the classroom.

Rotenberger captained the Thunder to appearances in the 2013 and 2014 USA Hockey National Championship Tournament, winning a Bronze Medal in 2013 (U16 AAA). His junior hockey career had multiple stops in the North American Hockey League including Topeka, St. Louis, and Shreveport before beginning his NCAA career at the University of Alabama-Huntsville.

Mekenzie Steffen

MEKENZIE STEFFEN

Coordinator of Girls Hockey

Mekenzie Steffen, a Minnesota native, joins TPH Nashville as Coordinator of Girl's Hockey following a successful hockey career with the University of Wisconsin Badgers, where she won a National Championship and was named team captain her senior season. In addition to her on-ice accomplishments, Steffen was also a four-time WCHA All-Academic Team recipient. Before her college career, Steffen won a gold medal with the US Under-18 National Team in 2015.

Austin Keiser

AUSTIN KEISER

Goaltending Coach

Austin Keiser was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia, and serves as the Goaltending Coach at the TPH Center of Excellence in Nashville. Keiser played prep hockey at the Kents Hill School in Maine, two years of junior hockey in the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) and then NCAA Division III for SUNY – Potsdam and later, Western New England University. He concluded his playing career in the ECHL for his hometown team, the Atlanta Gladiators. Keiser helped build the first ever junior team in Milwaukee and was the Associate Head Coach for the Milwaukee Power in the NA3HL.

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Tyler Johns

Player Development Coach & Mentor

Staci Hart

STACI HART

Strength & Conditioning Coach

Staci Hart has spent over ten years training professional, collegiate, junior level, and youth hockey athletes. Hart is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) as well as trained in Functional Movement Systems (FMS). She has credentials that consist of a Bachelors of Science from the Ohio State University and a Masters in Science from Lipscomb University. In her spare time, Hart enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends.

Dallas Derr

DALLAS DERR

Academic Success Coach

A native of Pennsylvania, Dallas grew up outside of Philadelphia and attended Princeton Day School in Princeton, New Jersey during his high school career. After, he played juniors in the NSHL for the Jersey Shore Wildcats.

Dallas attended High Point University in North Carolina for two years before transferring to MTSU for his junior and senior years. More recently, he has held positions with Montgomery Bell Academy as an Assistant Coach and worked with the Jr. Preds and Preds Select.

Brett Blatchford

BRETT BLATCHFORD

Director & Head of Hockey

Brett Blatchford, a native of Temperance, Michigan, is the Director & Head of Hockey at the TPH Center of Excellence in Phoenix. Blatchford spent three seasons in the NAHL with the Texas Tornado, where he was a three-time NAHL National Champion and captain for two of three seasons. In the 2005-06 season with the Tornado, Blatchford was awarded the NAHL Academic Player of the Year and named to the First All-Star Team. Blatchford graduated from the University of Notre Dame which included four seasons (2006-2010) with the Fighting Irish hockey team. While there, he helped Notre Dame to the first National Championship appearance in school history and was a two-time CCHA champion. Following his college career, he played professionally in the CHL, ECHL, and AHL.

Amy Reagan

AMY REAGAN

Head of Academics

Reagan joins TPH with over a decade of experience within academics in both public and private school settings, significant knowledge of hybrid learning models, and valuable techniques in tutoring student-athletes. She graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education and Intervention.

Brendan Burke

BRENDAN BURKE

Player Development Coach & Mentor / Goaltending Coach

Brendan Burke, a Scottsdale, Arizona native and former Jr. Coyote ‘AAA’ goaltender, is a Player Development Coach & Mentor / Goaltending Coach at the TPH Center of Excellence in Phoenix. Following his Tier 1 career, he competed for five years in the Canadian Hockey League, including stops with the WHL’s Portland Winterhawks, Calgary Hitmen, and the London Knights of the OHL. In 2013, he won a WHL Championship with Portland Winterhawks. In 2015-16, he won the CHL Memorial Cup as a member of the London Knights and was the recipient of the Dave Pinkney Award, given to the top goalie tandem in the OHL. Burke was also selected 163rd overall in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft by his hometown Coyotes. Burke most recently completed his fourth season playing for the University of Alberta where he was nominated for UAB’s prestigious Randy Gregg Award, presented to a student-athlete who excels on the ice, in the classroom, and in the community, as well as a 2020 Academic All-Canadian award recipient.

Dallas Drake

DALLAS DRAKE

Player Development Coach & Mentor

Dallas Drake, a Canadian former professional ice hockey winger in the National Hockey League (NHL), originates from Trail, British Columbia, Canada. Drake is a Player Development Coach & Mentor at the TPH Center of Excellence in Phoenix.

Having begun his hockey career with the Rossland Warriors (KIJHL) and the Vernon Lakers (BCJHL), Drake would soon travel to Northern Michigan University, where he assisted the team in winning the 1991 NCAA Men’s Ice Hockey Championship his junior year. That same season, Drake was awarded NCAA Defensive Player of the Year, First All-Star Team, and First All-American Team. He would later be inducted into the Northern Michigan University Hall of Fame in 2002.

Following his winning college career, Drake continued his success on the ice with the Detroit Red Wings for his rookie season in 1992-1993, posting 44 points on 18 goals and 26 assists. Drake played the beginning of his career for the Detroit Red Wings, but later played for the Winnipeg Jets/Phoenix Coyotes, and St. Louis Blues. Drake came full circle by ending his stellar NHL career with Detroit and won his first Stanley Cup championship in his final season in 2008. On July 15, 2008, Drake announced his retirement from the NHL.

Scott Monroe

SCOTT MUNROE

Player Development Coach & Mentor

Scott Munroe, a native of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, is a Player Development Coach & Mentor at the TPH Center of Excellence in Phoenix. Munroe has a tremendous amount of experience as both a player and a coach. Munroe played four years in the crease for the University of Alabama in Huntsville. In 2003, he backstopped the Chargers to a College Hockey America regular-season championship. Following college, Munroe spent eight seasons in the American Hockey League with the Philadelphia Phantoms, Bridgeport Sound Tigers, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, Adirondack Phantoms, and Springfield Falcons. Munroe also spent one season in the Kontinental Hockey League and a season in the Swedish Hockey League. As a coach, Munroe has served as a development and goaltending coach in the QMJHL with the Moncton Wildcats and an assistant coach in NCAA-III with Trinity College.

Brian Slugocki

BRIAN SLUGOCKI

Skills Coach

Brian Slugocki, a native of Scottsdale, Arizona, is a Skills Coach at the TPH Center of Excellence in Phoenix. Slugocki played junior hockey in Phoenix with the Phoenix Polar Bears before going on to play for the University of Arizona for four seasons. Slugocki amassed 157 points (89G-68A) in 126 games while playing for the Wildcats. He also took his talents overseas for a year in Sweden following his college career. Slugocki recently spent time with Darryl Belfry, who is recognized as a leader and innovator in hockey having spent time training players like Auston Matthews, Sidney Crosby, Nathan MacKinnon, and John Tavares.

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LARS HEPSO

Skills Coach

KC McGinley

KC MCGINLEY

Academic Success Coach

A Scottsdale native, McGinley began her hockey career in Arizona until moving to Colorado at the age of 16 to pursue her dreams to play collegiately. She spent the beginning of her college career playing NCAA DIII for UMASS Boston until she returned to the Grand Canyon State. There she helped create the women's program at ASU and was a captain for three years. She also assisted in the WWCHL First Team All-Tournament in 2017 and WWCHL All-League Team in 2018.

McGinley is entering her fourth year coaching youth hockey and her third year with the Kachina’s Girls’ program as the U16 AAA coach. Previously, she was the Strength and Conditioning and Defensive Coach for the GCU Women's Hockey program during the 2019 and 2020 seasons.

Shane Harvey

SHANE HARVEY

Strength and Conditioning Coach

A Red Deer, Alberta native, Harvey joins TPH Phoenix following time serving as a head instructor for Okanagan Hockey Schools, a performance coach at the OA Sports Center in Saco, ME, the Director of Player Development for the Portland Jr. Pirates and during the 2014-2015 season, Shane served as the Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Pirates American Hockey League team. Since 2017, Shane has served as the Director of Sports Performance at the Center for Athletic Training & Physical Therapy located at the Ice Den in Chandler. Shane has not just trained but also coached various Tier I and Tier II players from the Jr. Coyotes and Arizona Bobcats organizations.

On top of his Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science from University of Southern Maine, Harvey's certifications include, NSCA, TRX Functional Training, EXOS, and USA Hockey.

John Isbell

JOHN ISBELL

Strength & Conditioning Coach

An Arizona native, Isbell earned a Bachelor's Degree in Health Science-Fitness & Wellness from Northern Arizona University (NAU). John played Junior Hockey in Euguene, OR before attending school and playing college hockey for NAU. He has been a strength coach in youth hockey since 2017 and has also coached at the Tier I level since 2018. Isbell brings a high level of passion in helping local athletes develop on and off the ice.

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PHILIP MCRAE

Director & Head of Hockey

Philip McRae, a Chesterfield, Missouri native, and Wildwood, Missouri resident, is the Director & Head of Hockey at the TPH Center of Excellence in St. Louis. In 2004-05, he won a Tier I USA Hockey National Champion as a member of the 15U St. Louis ‘AAA’ Blues. And in 2004-05, he was a champion again as a Mid-States High School Hockey champion with Christian Brothers College High School. Following his youth hockey career, McRae Played junior hockey with the US National Team Development Program and the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League. In four seasons in the OHL, he served as captain and was twice selected to the OHL all-star game. In 2008, McRae was selected 33rd overall by the St. Louis Blues in the NHL Entry Draft.

Rachael Mohr

RACHEL MOHR

Head of Academics

Rachel Mohr is the Head of Academics at the TPH Center of Excellence in St. Louis. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Saint Louis University and Master of Arts in Higher Education from Lindenwood University. While at Saint Louis, Mohr played NCAA D-I Field Hockey. While at Lindenwood Mohr served as the Academic Coordinator within the Athletic Department for four years prior to joining TPH St. Louis.

Bobby Feaster

BOBBY FEASTER

Player Development Coach & Mentor

Bobby Feaster is a native of Hershey, Pennsylvania, and is a Player Development Coach & Mentor at the TPH Center of Excellence in St. Louis. Feaster spent the 2019-2020 season as the Team Services Coordinator for the Manitoba Moose of the AHL. He previously served on the hockey coaching staff at the University of North Dakota in a variety of roles under the direction of Brad Berry as a student manager. Bobby’s father, Jay, is a former National Hockey League General Manager, having guided the Tampa Bay Lightning to the Stanley Cup in 2004.

Jeff LoVecchio

JEFF LOVECCHIO

Player Development Coach & Mentor

Jeff LoVecchio, a native of Chesterfield, Missouri, is a Player Development Coach & Mentor at the TPH Center of Excellence in St. Louis. LoVecchio played all his youth hockey in the St. Louis minor hockey system. He then spent three years in the United States Hockey League (USHL) playing for the River City and Omaha Lancers. Following his time in junior hockey, LoVecchio played three seasons at Western Michigan University where he served as captain. His professional debut came in 2008 with the Providence Bruins of the American Hockey League (AHL). Currently, LoVecchio is considered the top off-ice hockey trainer in St. Louis training NHL players down to youth players.

Stephen Bopp

STEPHEN BOPP

Player Development Coach & Mentor

Bopp grew up playing hockey in St. Louis and has been a member of the Kirkwood Stars, Affton Americans Central States, and AAA Blues. Bopp went on to play junior hockey for the St. Louis Bandits of the North American Hockey League for two years and finished his career at Lindenwood University where he was a member of the 2016 National Championship team. Bopp currently owns Bodies By Bopp LLC and works with athletes of all ages to help improve strength, coordination, and sports performance. He's also the head coach of the 2009 Carshield AAA Team, as well as the assistant coach of the St. Louis Rockets Elite U16 AA team.

Molly Porfidio

MOLLY PORFIDIO

Academic Success Coach

Porfidio joined the TPH St. Louis team in 2020. She has earned her Bachelor’s degree in in Secondary Education and English from Missouri State University and is a Missouri state licensed teacher. Currently, she is pursuing a Master’s degree in Higher Education from Lindenwood University.

Bruce Racine

BRUCE RACINE

Goaltending Coach

Bruce Racine, a native of Cornwall, Ontario, is a Goaltending Coach at the TPH Center of Excellence in St. Louis. Racine, a former St. Louis Blues goaltender, has been instructing goalies in the Heartland of Hockey for over 14 years. A Northeastern University graduate and 2001 inductee into the Northeastern University Hall of Fame, Racine played professional hockey for 15 seasons, across various leagues, including the IHL, AHL, Finnish Elite League, and the National Hockey League. The Cornwall, ON native, has won professional championships on two occasions, in the NHL with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1991 and in the IHL as a member of the Muskegon Lumberjacks. In addition to his successes on the ice during his pro career, Bruce was a five-time recipient of the Community Service Award in both the IHL and AHL.

While Bruce’s on-ice accomplishments are certainly impressive, perhaps he is best known for his role in assisting in the development and advancement of various St. Louis area goaltenders since he retired in 2003. With a philosophy of “dream, train, achieve,” Racine is excited to play a role in the development of goaltenders at the Center of Excellence.

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Keith Vangels

Goaltending Coach

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Alex Weissenborn

Goaltending Coach

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SCOTT BRANDES

Skills Coach

Scott Brandes, a Webster Groves, Missouri native, is a Skills Coach at the TPH Center of Excellence in St. Louis. As a youth, Brandes played locally for the St. Louis Jr Blues. Scott is one of the most respected and knowledgeable skating coaches in St. Louis. Prior to starting his own hockey development company, End2End Hockey, Brandes was coaching in the St. Louis area for over 10 years. He also worked for Turcotte stick-handling camp for five years.

Three seasons coaching with the 1990 AAA U14 team, won the Tier 1 National Championship title. This was the first National Championship that a St. Louis amateur team has ever won.

Sam Schneiderman

SAMANTHA SCHNEIDERMAN

Academic Success Coach

A native of St. Louis, Samantha Schneiderman has grown up around hockey. With her younger brother playing AAA, she is very familiar with the game but the busy schedule that comes with the sport. Schneiderman takes pride in the importance of excellent grades and balancing athletics and academics. Currently, she is a senior at Lindenwood University in St. Charles and is majoring in elementary education.  

Bret Kelly

BRET KELLY

Strength & Conditioning Coach

Originally from St. Louis, Bret grew up playing football and wrestling which transitioned to rugby and weightlifting later in life. After completing his Masters, Bret spent time as a strength and conditioning coach for the St. Louis Cardinals, St. Louis University, the Chicago White Sox, and most recently the U.S. Ski and Snowboarding team. His time with elite athletes has prepared him to train a wide variety of disciplines as well as collaborate with sports medicine professionals during injury rehab. He and his wife have recently moved back to the St. Louis area and he’s excited to help local people reach their goals!

Ryan Hurston

RYAN HURTSON

Strength & Conditioning Coach

Originally from Saint Louis, Ryan attended DePauw University and earned a degree in Kinesiology. Afterward, he spent time coaching and scouting youth and high school athletes in the Chicago and Indianapolis areas. Since returning to St. Louis Ryan has worked with a variety of individuals from medical professionals, athletes, and executives in both group and personal settings, guiding them along their path towards an upgraded life. He has been a part of EXOS since 2018 and is excited to be a part of the new facility and unique partnership between Mercy Sports Medicine and EXOS.

Jordan Pietrus

JORDAN PIETRUS

Executive Director

A graduate of Brown University with an MBA in International Business from Coventry University, Pietrus has no shortage of achievements including being named to the ECAC All-Academic team, voted a finalist for the Ivy League Student-Athlete of the Year, awarded NCAA Hockey Humanitarian Finalist, and awarded the 2010 NCAA Derek Hines Unsung Hero Award. While competing for Coventry in the EIHL and pursuing his MBA, Pietrus served as a lecturer in Undergraduate and Masters levels courses at Coventry University.

After wrapping up a nine-year professional playing career that in ECHL (South Carolina, Trenton and Elmira) and overseas (England, Poland and Denmark), Pietrus led the charge in launching the first TPH Center of Excellence west of the Mississippi River.  After one year at our Denver location Pietrus has stepped up to help lead all of our Colorado locations. The Winnipeg native has now made Colorado his home with his wife and daughter.

Matt Doman

MATT DOMAN

Director & Head of Hockey

A University of Wisconsin graduate, Doman joined the TPH Superior team in 2019. Doman was drafted by the Calgary Flames in the 1999 NHL Entry Draft, is an alumnus of the United States National Team Development Program and brings ten years of coaching experience in Minnesota high school hockey. Doman has also previously served as the Director of Player Development for the Milwaukee Junior Admirals.

Annie Doman

ANNIE DOMAN

Head of Academics

Annie Doman, a Wisconsin native, is the Head of Academics for the TPH Center of Excellence in Superior. Doman comes with a wide range of experiences in the collegiate setting. As a head volleyball coach, she recruited and mentored student-athletes and organized a variety of wellness and community service initiatives. While working in career development, she organized events and worked closely with alumni and businesses to provide career experiences to students. 

Doman earned her Bachelor of Arts in Special Education from Austin Peay State University and her Master of Science in Exercise and Sport Science from the University of Central Missouri where she also served as the Volleyball Graduate Assistant. 

Greg Vanover

GREG VANOVER

Head of CoE Prospects

Greg Vanover began coaching full-time in 2000 with the Alliance Youth Hockey Association in Dallas, Texas and has dedicated over 21 years as a full-time youth hockey coach. His background includes a Master of Education Degree in Exercise Physiology as well as holds a Masters Level 5 Certification where he has presented for the USA Hockey Coaching Education Program and has taught year-round off-ice conditioning for hockey to Level 4 coaches.

Vanover was instrumental in helping build the Texas Alliance program from three teams to nationally recognized contenders for the National Championships at both the Tier I and Tier II levels. Later he was selected by USA Hockey and Texas Amateur Hockey Association to take the reigns of Team Southwest for high school hockey’s prestigious Chicago Showcase. Under his direction, Team Southwest moved up the ladder to reach play in the same divisions as Michigan, Minnesota, and Massachusetts. Vanover has also had the opportunity to be a Coach/Evaluator for USA Hockey at the Rocky Mountain District Player Development camps as well as 14U and 15U National Select Festivals from 2008 to 2012.

Vanover is married to Allison and has a son named Noah. The family lives in Erie, Colorado with their two beloved Australian Shepherds, Bronco and Barrel.

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TIMM LORENZ

Goaltending Coach

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MARK SAMPLE

Goaltending Coach

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Steve Quailer

Skills Coach

Steve Quailer grew up playing his youth hockey in Colorado for the Colorado Outlaws (currently the Rocky Mountain Roughriders). In 2007 Quailer was drafted to the Sioux City Musketeers and played the 2007-2008 season. There he had tied for the team's most points and was selected to the USHL All-Star Game, the USHL All-Rookie Team, and drafted in the 3rd round to the Montreal Canadiens. In 2008 Quailer committed to Northeastern University, where he played for the Huskies from 2008-2012. During that time, Quailer was selected to the Hockey East All-Rookie Team, was an assistant captain, and played in the NCAA tournament with the Huskies. From 2012-2014 Quailer played in the American Hockey League for the Montreal Canadiens affiliate and the Las Angeles Kings affiliate and from 2014-2015, he was in the Dallas Stars system playing in the East Coast Hockey League for the Idaho Steelheads. After his playing career, he coached the Metro State Road Runners Men's Hockey team from 2015-2020. The Roadrunners had made two national tournaments and four regional tournaments in the ACHA. Quailer currently is the head coach for the Rocky Mountain Roughriders 15U team and will be helping train/mentor players of all ages at TPH Superior under Director Matt Doman.

Impact Sports Performance

IMPACT SPORTS PERFORMANCE

Strength and Conditioning Partner

A native of Littleton, Colorado, Michael Anton played for the Colorado Thunderbirds for seven years. As someone quite familiar with the area and sport, Anton enjoys working with TPH Denver student-athletes as they train to become elite.

In his free time, he enjoys creating graphic design edits of hockey players from various levels.

Synapse Physical Therapy

SYNAPSE PHYSICAL THERAPY

PT Service Provider

Jacob Paluch Headshot

JACOB PALUCH

Director & Head of Hockey

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