We sat down with our new U10 "A" Head Coach and asked him a few questions about the upcoming season.
- Can you tell us about your background in hockey, both as a player and a coach?
My Minor Hockey career was played as a member of the Penetang Minor Hockey Flames Rep B teams from U8 to U18. I was a member of Penetang teams that won Georgian Bay Championships and in 1998, I was a member of the Penetang Flames U18 Rep B team that were International Silver Stick Finalists and OMHA Finalists. Following my minor hockey career in 1999, I played one season as a member of the Penetang JR. C Kings.
Following my hockey career, from 2001 to 2010, I was an OMHA Official in Penetang/Midland and Milton officiating OMHA games from U9 to U18.
My coaching experience began in Penetang coaching U9 Rep, U11 Rep and U11 LL from 1996 to 1999, and I returned to coaching in 2021 to present with Elmvale Minor Hockey coaching U7 LL, U8 LL/Select and U9 MD this past season. I have also coached a U9 AA Hockey Team for the past two a summers out of southern Simcoe County.
- What is your overall coaching philosophy, and what values are most important to you as a coach?
I am a strong believer in defence first hockey, asking my players to play at both ends of the ice. I ask my players to show Dedication, Discipline and Desire, while promoting fun and enjoyment of the game. I hope to bring growth and development for each player, developing new skills and refining others to improve their game individually and as a team
- What style of hockey do you coach, and what can players expect in terms of systems and game strategy?
I expect hard work and commitment from my teams and players, this involves a return to basics at practice with a focus on core skills like skating, shooting and puck handling. I also run high tempo and demanding practices that build strength, skating ability and stamina. I will also build basic systems for players to follow that will focus on strong fore-checking, defensive zone coverage and breakout systems.
- What are you most looking forward to in the upcoming season?
I am looking forward to a return to Penetang and Midland where my minor hockey was played from 1984 to 1999. I am also looking forward to being part of the new minor hockey association on the ground level in year 1, this a very exciting time for minor hockey in Georgian Bay and the opportunity for growth and development of our local hockey players.
- Why should players want to be part of the Islanders next season? What makes this team and program special?
I believe the Board of Directors of PMHA, MMHA and the newly elected executive of GBMHA have established a professional minor hockey association that believes in the development of players, coaches and teams, while competing a higher level of hockey. Players joining the Islanders teams will be exposed to high quality coaching, skill development and a fun hockey environment. The policies and procedures established for the Islanders will ensure a fair and transparent process for all players and families, while promoting high level hockey.
- Is there anything else you’d like players and families to know about you or the upcoming season?
My goal is to bring my passion and love of hockey to the organization and team. I will ask my players to work hard, support their teammates and represent their community and team professionally. But my ultimate goal is to build the confidence, skills and abilities of these young players while enjoying the game of hockey while having fun.