Check out our recent interview with our U13 "B" Head Coach.
1. Can you tell us about your background in hockey, both as a player and a coach?
I’ve been around the game for as long as I can remember. I started playing hockey at a young age and, like a lot of kids, fell in love with it early on. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to play just about every position in some form, but goaltending has always been my main spot. I’ve played in places like Barrie, Midland, Penetang, and Windsor—at levels ranging from house league to AAA and Junior, now continuing to enjoy the game in men’s leagues and tournaments.
Coaching came into the picture when I was a teenager, helping out with a Midland rep team. That experience gave me a whole new perspective on the game. Since then, I’ve stayed involved by coaching both baseball and hockey locally. I’ve been lucky to be part of some successful teams, but what I value most is helping players develop their skills, build confidence, and learn how to work together as a team.
2. What is your overall coaching philosophy, and what values are most important to you as a coach?
My coaching philosophy is rooted in preparation and effort—but just as importantly, in creating buy-in from the players. When athletes believe in what we’re doing and understand that progress comes through consistent, focused effort, success tends to follow.
I aim to foster a positive, supportive environment where players feel encouraged to make mistakes, learn through adversity, and continue to push themselves. I believe in open lines of communication with both players and parents—we’re all working toward the same goal, and I value feedback, questions, and shared ideas.
Above all, I want our players to enjoy coming to the rink. That comes from building trust, celebrating growth, and creating a space where everyone is motivated to improve and contribute to the team.
3. What style of hockey do you coach, and what can players expect in terms of systems and game strategy?
I coach a fast-paced, possession-focused style of hockey that emphasizes anticipation, speed, and strong two-way play. Players will be asked to compete hard in all zones and learn the habits needed to play a complete 200-foot game.
Our systems will be age-appropriate but forward-thinking—designed to not only be effective in games now, but also to help players build the skills and hockey sense needed to succeed at the next level. We’ll focus on puck control, smart decision-making, and playing as a cohesive unit.
4. What are you most looking forward to in the upcoming season?
Every team has its own identity and rhythm, both on and off the ice. I’m really looking forward to getting to know this group, building chemistry, and finding ways to bring it all together. There’s something special about watching a team grow from the early stages into something greater than the sum of its parts.
5. Why should players want to be part of the Islanders next season? What makes this team and program special?
The Islanders program offers a fresh and exciting opportunity to be part of something new and meaningful. Players will be part of a team that values development, teamwork, and growth—and one that’s committed to doing things the right way.
This is a chance to build something from the ground up and help shape the culture of the program moving forward. Whether you’re focused on improving your skills, enjoying the experience, or striving for the next level of hockey, the Islanders are a great place to do it.
6. Is there anything else you’d like players and families to know about you or the upcoming season?
This is a unique opportunity to bring together a brand-new local B team with a lot of potential—and I believe we have a real chance to surprise some people this season. More importantly, it’s a chance to be part of a truly development-focused program during one of the most important years in a young player’s hockey journey.
U13 is a key stage in a player’s growth, and we’re focused on building strong habits and skills that will carry well beyond this season. Our development plan offers the right mix of on-ice and off-ice learning—through regular practices, skill sessions, and optional workout opportunities. We’ll also be using video as a teaching tool throughout the season to help players better understand key concepts and track their own progress. The goal is to build smart habits, teach systems, and develop hockey sense that will not only help players succeed now, but give them a real edge as they move forward.
Above all, I want this to be a season full of growth, challenge, and fun. Whether we’re on the ice, in the dressing room, or cheering each other on from the bench, I want every player to feel supported, valued, and proud of what we accomplish together.