Carson McConnell – PILOT MOUND HOCKEY ACADEMY

CSSHL RELEASES 2026/27 WESTERN DIVISION SCHEDULE

Carson McConnell — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 14:26:46 +0000

The Pilot Mound Hockey Academy (PMHA), in proud partnership with the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL), is thrilled to announce the release of the 2026/27 regular season schedule. Hockey fans, athletes, and families can now begin marking their calendars and preparing for another action-packed year on the ice.

Male U15 Prep: Click Here

Male U17: Click Here

Male U17 Prep: Click Here

Male U18 Prep: Click Here

Female U18 Prep: Click Here

Changes May Be Coming

Please note that schedule details are subject to change throughout the season. Showcase dates and locations are posted on the CSSHL website, and game times for showcase weekends may vary depending on league standings and team performances. PMHA’s website will be updated regularly to reflect any adjustments or last-minute announcements.

Frank Longo Selected as Guest Coach for Winnipeg Jets Development Camp

Carson McConnell — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:00:00 +0000

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is celebrating another major milestone as Frank Longo, PMHA Goaltending Coach and Assistant Coach, has been invited to serve as a guest coach with the Winnipeg Jets’ goaltending department at the organization’s 2026 Development Camp.

The camp runs June 29 to July 3 at the Hockey for All Centre in Winnipeg, taking place immediately after the 2026 NHL Entry Draft. Longo will join the Jets’ development staff in working with newly drafted prospects and invited players as they begin their transition into professional hockey.

This marks another significant achievement in Longo’s coaching career. He previously earned an invitation to work as a guest goaltending coach with the Toronto Maple Leafs at their Development Camp—an opportunity that highlighted his growing reputation across the hockey world.

For PMHA, Longo’s continued recognition at the NHL level is a point of pride and a testament to the academy’s commitment to high‑performance development.

“Frank’s expertise and dedication will elevate our program,” Nichole Collins said. “Seeing him recognized by NHL organizations reinforces the quality of coaching our athletes receive every day.”

Longo’s involvement with the Jets provides valuable exposure not only for him, but also for the PMHA athletes he mentors—many of whom aspire to reach junior, collegiate, and professional levels.

With another NHL development camp on his résumé, Longo continues to strengthen both his personal coaching profile and the visibility of Pilot Mound Hockey Academy on the national stage.

PMHA & PMCI Celebrates Student Excellence at 2026 Academic & Athletic Awards Day

Carson McConnell — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 16:30:00 +0000

June 17, 2026 — Pilot Mound, MB — The gymnasium at Pilot Mound Collegiate Institute was filled with applause and school pride on Friday as students, staff, families, and community members gathered for the annual Academic and Athletic Awards Day. The celebration highlighted excellence across academics, athletics, leadership, and citizenship, with many Pilot Mound Hockey Academy athletes recognized for their achievements throughout the 2025–2026 school year.

The ceremony showcased PMCI’s commitment to developing well‑rounded, community‑minded students. From top academic standings to major sport awards and provincial‑level participation, the event reflected the dedication and discipline these student‑athletes bring to both their studies and their sport.

Academic Awards

Grade 9 – Alex Rintoul (Highest Academic Standing – English 10F)

Grade 9 – Kobe Parker (Highest Academic Standing – Science 10F)

Grade 9 – Oliver Helsen (Highest Academic Standing – Canada in a Contemporary World 10F)

Grade 9 – Avery Crowe (Highest Academic Standing – Intro to Design Drafting 10G)

Grade 9 – Alex Rintoul (Highest Academic Standing – Math 10F)

Grade 10 – Yuki Kido (Highest Academic Standing – Science 20F)

Grade 10 – Rhylee Tiefel (Highest Academic Standing – Digital Pictures 25S)

Grade 10 – Rhylee Tiefel (Highest Academic Standing – Keyboarding 25S)

Grade 10 – Rhylee Tiefel (Highest Academic Standing – Graphics 20G)

Grade 11 – Xianen Evans (Highest Academic Standing – Agriculture 30G)

Grade 11 – Adam Zamecnik (Highest Academic Standing – Chemistry 30S)

Grade 11 – Keira Vines (Highest Academic Standing – History 30F)

Grade 11 – Christian Caby (Highest Academic Standing – History 30F)

Grade 11 – Sadie Swanton (Highest Academic Standing – Biology 30S)

Grade 11 – Keira Vines (Highest Academic Standing – English 30S)

Grade 12 – Adam Zamecnik (Highest Academic Standing – Essentials Math 40S)

Grade 12 – Hector Kapitonov (Highest Academic Standing – Applied Math 40S)

Grade 12 – Adam Zamecnik (Highest Academic Standing – English 40S)

Grade 12 – Logan Sullivan (Highest Academic Standing – English 40S)

Grade 12 – Adam Zamecnik (Highest Academic Standing – Pre-Calc 40S)

Grade 12 – Adam Zamecnik (Highest Academic Standing – Biology 40S)

Grade 12 – Adam Zamecnik (Highest Academic Standing – Chemistry 40S)

Grade 12 – Isabella Ferguson (Highest Academic Standing – Psychology 40S)

Grade 12 – Keira Vines (Highest Academic Standing – Psychology 40S)

Grade 12 – Casey Silverman (Highest Academic Standing – Transition to Work 40S)

Grade 12 – Luke Adam (Highest Academic Standing – Transition to Work 40S)

Grade 12 – Sadie Swanton (Highest Academic Standing – Food and Nutrition 40S)

Grade 12 – Ryley Sanders (Highest Academic Standing – Food and Nutrition 40S)

Grade 12 – Christian Caby (Highest Academic Standing – Family Studies 40S)

Grade 12 – Gavin Davis (Highest Academic Standing – Woodwork 40S)

Citizenship Awards

Grade 9 – Avery Crowe

Grade 12 – Luke Adam

Spirit Awards

Grade 9 – Jett Ball

Most Improved Student Award

Grade 10 and Overall – Gavin Hildebrand

Sport Awards

Golf Team Coaches Award – Austin Jeffries

Cross Country JV Boys MVP – Tucker Derkach

Cross Country JV Girls MVP – Avery Crowe

Cross Country Varsity Boys MVP – Christian Caby

Cross Country Varsity Boys MVP – Keira Vines

Badminton MVP – Maddox Ramage

Badminton Coaches Award – Isabella Ferguson and Reese Sitar

Baseball MVP – Maddox Ramage and Gavin Davis

Track and Field JV Boys MVP – Cole Landreville and Maddox Ramage

Track and Field JV Girls MVP – Avery Crowe

Track and Field Varsity Girls MVP – Sophie Drummond

Track and Field Varsity Boys MVP – Casey Silverman

PMCI Male Athlete of the Year – Maddox Ramage

Honour Roll standings will be finalized after all final exams are completed. Certificates will be included in report card envelopes. Honour Roll is awarded to students with an overall average of 80% or higher, with no mark below 70%. Honour Roll with Distinction recognizes students achieving an average of 90% or higher, with no mark below 80%. The full Honour Roll list will be posted at the end of June.

As the school year winds down, Awards Day offered a meaningful moment of reflection and celebration — a chance for students to take pride in their accomplishments, for families to share in their success, and for the entire PMCI community to recognize the hard work and spirit that define the school.

MALE ADVANCEMENT – ADAM ZAMECNIK

Carson McConnell — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:42:53 +0000

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is proud to announce that Male U17 Prep forward, Adam Zamecnik, has officially committed to the Dryden Ice Dogs (SIJHL) for the 2025–26 season. Adam’s growth, consistency, and offensive impact throughout the 2025–26 campaign have made him a standout within the program and a deserving athlete of this next step in his hockey career.

Head Coach Rick McConnell spoke highly of Adam’s development and the maturity he has brought to the U17 Prep group. “Adam has been an impact player for our U17 Prep group this season, acting as the Captain. He brings speed, creativity, and a natural scoring touch that makes him dangerous every time he’s on the ice. What stands out most is his willingness to compete — he works hard in all three zones, battles for pucks, and consistently pushes himself to improve. His growth over the past 3 years has been tremendous. Adam has become more confident with the puck, more assertive in his playmaking, and more reliable in key moments. He’s a great teammate, highly coachable, and someone who represents our program with pride. The Dryden Ice Dogs are getting a player with a high ceiling, and I’m excited to see where his dedication takes him.”

During the 2025–26 CSSHL regular season, Adam appeared in 34 games and delivered a strong offensive performance, recording 22 goals and 17 assists for 39 points, along with 10 penalty minutes. His ability to generate scoring chances, play with pace, and contribute in key situations made him one of the most reliable forwards on the roster. Including exhibition and tournament play, Adam finished the season with 30 goals and 22 assists for 52 points in 50 total games, solidifying himself as one of PMHA’s top offensive threats.

Adam’s commitment to the Dryden Ice Dogs marks an exciting next chapter in his hockey journey. His blend of speed, skill, and competitiveness aligns well with the demands of junior hockey, and PMHA is proud to support him as he takes this next step. Congratulations, Adam — the entire Buffaloes community is behind you as you move on to the SIJHL and continue your development at the junior level.

PMHA & PMCI Capture the Zone 6 AA Track & Field Banner as Athletes Smash Records and Punch Tickets to Provincials

Carson McConnell — Sun, 31 May 2026 19:07:41 +0000

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy and Pilot Mound Collegiate Institute brought home major hardware this week, securing the Zone 6 AA Track & Field Banner in dominant fashion. PMHA athletes delivered standout performances across multiple events, with several breaking long‑standing records and officially qualifying for Provincials. The win marks a huge moment for both programs, showcasing the depth, drive, and athletic versatility of the student‑athletes representing Pilot Mound.

The meet, held Friday, May 29th at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg, featured strong competition across all divisions — but the Pilot Mound athletes rose to the challenge, stacking podium finishes throughout the day.

Crowe and Drummond Earn Athlete of the Meet Honours

Two PMHA athletes earned top individual recognition:

Avery Crowe — JV Girls Athlete of the Meet
Sophie Drummond — Varsity Girls Athlete of the Meet

Both athletes dominated their respective divisions, sweeping multiple events and setting the tone for the team’s overall success.

Junior Varsity Girls Results

Avery Crowe
- 1st — 400m Dash
- 1st — 800m Run
- 1st — 1500m Run
Tenley McLaren — 3rd, Shot Put
Wytten Constant — 2nd, Discus

Varsity Girls Results

Sophie Drummond
- 1st — 100m Dash
- 1st — 200m Dash
- 2nd – Pentathlon
Keira Vines
- 2nd — 100m Dash
- 2nd — 200m Dash
- 1st — 800m Run
Sadie Swanton — 3rd, 1500m Run

Junior Varsity Boys Results

Gavin Hildebrand — 1st, 100m Dash
Bastian Lamarche — 3rd, 100m Dash; 3rd, Shot Put
Daan Melchior — 1st, 200m Dash
Brett Buors — 1st, 400m Dash; 3rd, High Jump
Maddox Ramage — 3rd, 400m Dash; 2nd, Triple Jump
Tucker Derkach — 1st, 800m Dash
Brock Vodden — 2nd, 800m Dash; 2nd, 3000m Dash
Cole Landreville — 1st, 1500m Dash; 1st, 3000m Dash
Hinata Hashimoto — 2nd, 1500m Dash
Trenton Wytinck — 2nd, High Jump

Varsity Boys Results

Xienan Evans — 3rd, 100m Dash; 3rd, 200m Dash
Casey Silverman — 2nd, 400m Dash; 1st, 800m Dash
Aiden Masse — 2nd, 800m Dash; 1st, 1500m Dash
Christian Caby — 2nd, 1500m Dash
Luke Adam — 3rd, 3000m Dash

Pilot Mound also excelled in team events, earning multiple wins in:

4x100m Relay
4x400m Relay
Medley Relay

These collective performances played a major role in securing the overall Zone 6 AA Banner.

Congratulations to Avery Crowe, Keira Vines, and Daan Melchoir on breaking Zone 6 records as well!

A Program on the Rise

The combined success of PMCI and PMHA athletes reflects the strength of the training environment in Pilot Mound — one that emphasizes speed, endurance, strength, and multi‑sport development. With numerous athletes now advancing to Provincials, the momentum continues to build.

Pilot Mound will be well‑represented on the provincial stage, and both programs are already looking ahead with pride and excitement.

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy Welcomes Remi Harvey as U18 Female Prep Assistant Coach

Carson McConnell — Sat, 30 May 2026 18:21:34 +0000

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is proud to announce the hiring of Remi Harvey as Assistant Coach of the U18 Female Prep program, bringing more than 15 years of coaching and mentorship experience and over 25 years of playing experience across multiple continents.

Harvey’s path through high‑performance hockey is uniquely global. Raised in Australia’s emerging elite hockey system, she spent nine seasons representing Australia at the IIHF World Championships, competing against top international talent while developing a deep understanding of the game’s technical and tactical demands. Her international experience has since shaped a coaching philosophy grounded in adaptability, creativity, and athlete‑centered development.

Over the past decade, Harvey has been a key figure within Ice Hockey Australia’s U18 National Women’s Team, serving in roles ranging from mentor and equipment manager to assistant coach and, most recently, head coach. For the past three years, she has led Australia’s U18 National Women’s Team at the IIHF Division I Group B World Championships, helping develop athletes who now compete in Australia, Canada, the United States, and Europe.

Harvey arrives at PMHA following two successful seasons with the Toronto Leaside Jr. Wildcats of the OWHL, where she contributed to the development of players who have since committed to NCAA Division I and OUA programs. This past season, she also served as an assistant coach with the York University Lions (OUA), supporting athletes with position‑specific instruction, systems understanding, and advanced skill development.

Beyond team coaching, Harvey is widely respected as a skills and power skating coach with a passion for teaching and continuous learning. She has worked with numerous organizations and development programs, including Total Female Hockey under Kim McCullough, delivering on‑ice skills sessions, dryland training, and mental performance development. Known for her relentless work ethic and love for every facet of the sport—from sharpening skates to video analysis to building athletes’ confidence—Harvey brings a holistic, detail‑driven approach to player growth.

“Remi’s international experience, technical expertise, and genuine passion for athlete development make her an exceptional addition to our U18 Female Prep program,” said PMHA General Manager, Nichole Collins. “Her ability to connect with players, teach the game at a high level, and elevate performance aligns perfectly with our academy’s mission.”

Harvey will join the U18 Female Prep coaching staff ahead of the upcoming season, contributing to skill development, team systems, and the continued growth of PMHA’s high‑performance environment.

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is excited to welcome Remi Harvey to the Buffaloes family.

FEMALE ADVANCEMENT – LOGAN SULLIVAN

Carson McConnell — Mon, 18 May 2026 01:04:40 +0000

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is proud to recognize second‑year student‑athlete, Logan Sullivan, for her commitment to King’s College (NCAA – Division III) in Wilkes‑Barre, Pennsylvania.

A forward from New Hope, Pennsylvania, Logan joined the Female U18 Prep Buffaloes for the 2024–25 season and has become a steady, reliable, and high‑character presence within the program. Her work ethic, maturity, and team‑first mindset have made her a valued contributor both on and off the ice.

A message from PMHA’s General Manager, Nichole Collins:

“Logan is an athlete who brings maturity, consistency, and a strong work ethic to the rink every single day. She is incredibly coachable — the kind of player who listens, applies feedback immediately, and takes pride in doing things the right way.

Her growth this season has been impressive. Logan has strengthened her pace, her confidence with the puck, and her ability to make smart, reliable decisions in all three zones. She competes with purpose, supports her teammates, and plays a detailed, responsible game that coaches trust in any situation.

Off the ice, Logan is a positive influence in our dressing room and someone who represents our program with professionalism and pride. We are thrilled to see her take this next step in her academic and athletic journey, and we know she will be a strong addition to King’s College.”

Logan’s game is built on structure, consistency, and compete. She plays with purpose in all three zones, embraces the details that drive team success, and brings a calm, composed presence to the lineup. Her ability to read the play, support the puck, and make responsible decisions has made her a trusted player in every situation.

Her development across two seasons reflects her professionalism and willingness to learn — qualities that have earned the respect of teammates and staff alike.

2024–25 CSSHL Regular Season

33 GP — 4 G — 6 A — 10 PTS — 2 PIM

2025–26 CSSHL Regular Season

34 GP — 1 G — 5 A — 6 PTS — 6 PIM

Total CSSHL Regular Season (Two Seasons)

67 GP — 5 G — 11 A — 16 PTS — 8 PIM

Exhibition/Tournament Play

2024–25: 24 GP — 1 G — 2 A — 3 PTS
2025–26: 19 GP — 1 G — 0 A — 1 PTS

Logan’s steady production, combined with her responsible two‑way play, has made her a dependable presence in the Buffaloes’ lineup.

Logan’s commitment to King’s College reflects her academic focus, her competitive drive, and her readiness to take the next step in her hockey career. Her character, consistency, and upward trajectory make her an excellent addition to the Monarchs program.

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is proud of Logan’s achievements and the example she sets within the organization.

Congratulations, Logan — your future at King’s College is bright, and we look forward to watching your continued success.

FEMALE ADVANCEMENT – RYLEY SANDERS

Carson McConnell — Mon, 18 May 2026 01:00:06 +0000

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is proud to announce that second‑year student‑athlete, Ryley Sanders, has committed to York University (USPORTS) in Toronto, ON for the 2026–27 season.

A forward from Weyburn, Saskatchewan, Ryley has been a key member of the Female U18 Prep Buffaloes since joining the program in 2024–25. Across her two seasons in Black and Yellow, she has established herself as a competitive, high‑energy player whose work ethic and steady development have made her a reliable presence in every situation.

A message from PMHA General Manager, Nichole Collins:

“Ryley is an athlete who brings consistency, compete, and character to the rink every single day. She’s the type of player who embraces the hard areas of the game — forechecking, puck battles, defensive responsibility — and she has continued to elevate her offensive touch each season.

Her growth has been remarkable. Ryley’s confidence with the puck, her decision‑making under pressure, and her ability to impact the game in all three zones have all taken major steps forward. She is a tremendous teammate, a positive influence in the dressing room, and someone who represents our program with pride and professionalism.

We are incredibly proud of her commitment to York University and excited to see her succeed at the next level.”

Since arriving at PMHA, Ryley has appeared in 48 regular‑season CSSHL games, recording 5 goals and 9 assists for 14 points, along with 40 penalty minutes across her two seasons.

Her 2025–26 season has been her strongest to date, posting 5 goals and 6 assists for 11 points in 29 games, showing clear growth in her offensive confidence and overall impact.

Ryley also delivered a standout postseason performance at the 2026 Female U18 Prep Division II Western Championships, where she recorded 2 goals and 2 assists for 4 points in 4 games, demonstrating her ability to elevate her play when it matters most.

Ryley’s development reflects her commitment to the daily habits required of a high‑performance athlete. She competes with purpose, supports her teammates, and consistently brings energy to practices, games, and the dressing room. Her progression is a testament to her determination, coachability, and trust in the process.

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is proud of Ryley’s achievements and the example she sets within the program.

Congratulations, Ryley — your future at York University is bright, and we can’t wait to see what you accomplish next.

MALE ADVANCEMENT – KOLTON BIGRAS

Carson McConnell — Fri, 01 May 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is proud to announce that Male U18 Prep forward, Kolton Bigras, has officially signed his Letter of Intent with the Drayton Valley Thunderbirds (AJHL) for the 2025–26 season. Kolton’s growth, consistency, and commitment to his craft have been defining traits throughout his time in the iconic Yellow and Black.

A presence in the lineup, Kolton has continued to elevate his game each season, showcasing strong two‑way instincts, a competitive edge, and the ability to make timely plays in all three zones. His work ethic and team‑first mentality have made him a valued member of the Buffaloes program.

A message from PMHA Male U18 Prep Head Coach, Anthony Florentino:

“Kolton has been a steady force for our U18 group this season. He’s a player who shows up every day ready to work, ready to learn, and ready to compete. His commitment to improving the details of his game — his puck support, his defensive reads, his pace — has really stood out. Kolton is the type of athlete who makes the players around him better because he plays the game the right way.

The Thunderbirds are getting a mature, coachable, and driven young man who hasn’t come close to reaching his ceiling yet. I’m proud of the strides he’s made here at PMHA, and I’m excited to see him take the next step in Drayton Valley.”

Across his time with the Buffaloes, Kolton has demonstrated consistent development and a strong presence within the CSSHL. His contributions on both sides of the puck, combined with his discipline and reliability, have made him a trusted player in key situations. Kolton’s progression reflects the dedication he brings to training, video work, and team culture.

Kolton now prepares to join the Drayton Valley Thunderbirds, where his competitiveness, structure, and steady growth mindset will serve him well at the Junior A level. His time at PMHA has laid a strong foundation, and the entire organization is excited to watch him continue to rise.

Congratulations, Kolton! Your hard work has earned this opportunity, and we wish you every success in the upcoming season.

MALE ADVANCEMENT – CARSTEN CAMPBELL

Carson McConnell — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 17:00:00 +0000

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is proud to announce that Male U18 Prep forward, Carsten Campbell, has officially signed his Letter of Intent with the Dryden Ice Dogs (SIJHL) for the 2025–26 season.

Carsten’s steady development, strong two‑way play, and commitment to excellence have made him a key contributor within the U18 Prep program and a deserving athlete of this next step in his hockey career.

A message from PMHA’s Male U18 Prep Head Coach, Anthony Florentino:

“Carsten is a player who has earned every opportunity through hard work and consistency. He approaches the game with maturity, attention to detail, and a willingness to compete in all areas of the ice. Whether it’s on the forecheck, in defensive coverage, or creating offense, Carsten plays a complete game and does the little things that coaches value.

His growth this season has been impressive. He has become more confident with the puck, stronger in battles, and more assertive in his overall game. Carsten is a dependable teammate, a respectful young man, and someone who represents our program with pride. The Dryden Ice Dogs are getting a player who is ready to take the next step, and I’m excited to see how far his work ethic will take him.”

Carsten has been a steady presence for the Buffaloes throughout the 2024–25 season. In CSSHL regular‑season action, he appeared in 32 games, recording 3 goals and 4 assists for 7 points, along with 12 penalty minutes. His ability to play with pace, pressure opponents, and contribute in key moments made him a valuable part of the U18 Prep lineup.

He added to that performance in postseason play, contributing 1 goal in 3 playoff games, helping PMHA push through a competitive championship bracket.

Carsten’s commitment to the Dryden Ice Dogs marks an exciting new chapter in his hockey journey. His combination of work ethic, physical play, and steady development aligns well with the demands of junior hockey, and PMHA is proud to see him take this next step.

Congratulations, Carsten — the entire Buffaloes community is behind you as you move on to the SIJHL. Best of luck next season!