Buffaloes Reports – PILOT MOUND HOCKEY ACADEMY

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.

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy Announces Glen‑Ryan as Male U17 Assistant Coach

Carson McConnell — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 01:14:27 +0000

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is pleased to announce the hiring of Glen‑Ryan Walters as the Assistant Coach of the Male U17 program. With experience as a high school teacher, Jr. A coach, official, scout, and former player, Glen‑Ryan brings a uniquely well‑rounded perspective to the Buffaloes’ developing U17 roster.

Over the past three seasons, Glen‑Ryan has served behind the bench with the Amherst Ramblers of the MHL, contributing to junior‑level development with a calm, attentive, and detail‑oriented coaching style. His background in education has strengthened his ability to communicate, teach, and connect with athletes—qualities that align strongly with PMHA’s development‑first philosophy.

Beyond coaching, Glen‑Ryan has experienced nearly every role in the game. From officiating to scouting to even driving the Zamboni, he has gained a deep appreciation for the full landscape of hockey operations. He has also operated his own hockey school, where he earned a reputation as an inspiring and player‑focused skills coach committed to helping athletes grow both on and off the ice.

Originally from Brookfield, Nova Scotia, Glen‑Ryan brings small‑town work ethic and a genuine passion for mentorship. Locally, he’s even earned a bit of a legendary status—many claim he’s the best skate sharpener in town, a testament to his craftsmanship and attention to detail.

“Glen‑Ryan’s experience at the junior level, combined with his detail‑driven approach to skill development, will elevate the standard for our U17 athletes. He’s a coach who makes players better, and we’re thrilled to add that level of expertise to our staff.” Said PMHA General Manager, Nichole Collins.

Glen‑Ryan will join the Male U17 coaching staff ahead of the upcoming season, supporting skill development, team systems, and the continued growth of PMHA’s high‑performance environment.

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is proud to welcome Glen‑Ryan to the Buffaloes family.

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy Welcomes Frank Longo as Goaltending Coach

Carson McConnell — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 01:09:57 +0000

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is proud to announce the hiring of Frank Longo as the program’s newest Head Goaltending Coach and Male U15 Prep Assistant Coach, bringing more than 15 years of elite coaching and scouting experience to the Buffaloes.

Longo arrives with a proven track record of developing high‑performance athletes across Canada and the United States. His background spans U16, junior, collegiate, and professional levels, where he has earned a reputation for combining advanced analytics, technical detail, and strong communication to elevate both goaltenders and skaters.

Over his career, Longo has contributed to several respected programs, including Stanstead College (CSSHL), Nipissing University (USPORTS), The Hill Academy (CSSHL), and junior organizations such as the Kenai River Brown Bears (NAHL) and Lindsay Muskies (OJHL). He has also served behind the bench with the Whitby Wildcats U14 AAA, Stanstead College Boys Varsity U18, Nipissing University, and the Clarington Toros U16 AAA. In 2022, he helped guide Nipissing University to a U SPORTS National Championship silver medal in Prince Edward Island.

Longo’s expertise has been recognized at the provincial and professional levels. In 2024, he was selected as an assistant coach for the OHF U15 Program of Excellence, working closely with top OHL prospects. In 2025, he was invited to join the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL) as a guest goaltending coach during their Development Camp, contributing to on‑ice instruction, video analysis, and evaluations for the organization’s top prospects.

Beyond his coaching résumé, Longo is the founder of Gremlin Goaltending, a development program focused on individualized training, video breakdown, and long‑term athlete advancement. His work has helped numerous players earn selection in the QMJHL and OHL Drafts, while also supporting collegiate athletes in securing professional opportunities in Europe.

“Frank brings a level of experience, detail, and professionalism that will have an immediate impact on our athletes,” said PMHA General Manager, Nichole Collins. “His ability to connect with players and elevate their game makes him an outstanding addition to our staff.”

Longo will begin working with PMHA athletes ahead of the upcoming season, supporting both team development and individualized goaltending instruction.

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is excited to welcome Frank Longo to the Buffaloes family.

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy Welcomes High‑Performance Coach Chad Taylor to Lead U15 Prep

Carson McConnell — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 16:00:00 +0000

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is proud to announce the addition of Chad to its coaching staff, bringing with him more than a decade of experience, a proven development mindset, and a relentless commitment to helping young athletes excel. Though he joins PMHA from Alberta, Chad is no stranger to Manitoba, where his own playing career first took shape.

Over the past two seasons, Chad served as an assistant coach with the Bonnyville Pontiacs of the Alberta Junior Hockey League, one of the country’s most respected Junior A programs. At the same time, he led the U13 AAA Elite program as head coach, further establishing himself as a builder of strong, competitive teams and a mentor who understands how to develop players at every stage of their growth.

Chad’s coaching philosophy is grounded in accountability, a strong work ethic, and continuous improvement—values he expects from himself as much as from his players. He is dedicated to creating an environment where athletes are pushed daily to elevate their game, embrace challenges, and grow as both hockey players and young people. His teams reflect his trademark approach: “all gas, no brakes.”

Before stepping behind the bench, Chad enjoyed a standout playing career with the St. James Canadians in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. He was a two‑time league champion, an MJHL All‑Star, and in his final season helped lead the Canadians to the league finals while finishing top 10 in scoring. His experience as a high‑performing player gives him a unique ability to connect with athletes and guide them through the demands of elite competition.

Chad is High Performance Certified and will take the lead of PMHA’s U15 Prep program, where his energy, structure, and passion for development will play a key role in shaping the next generation of talent.

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is thrilled to welcome Chad back to Manitoba and into the PMHA community as he begins this next chapter. His dedication, drive, and commitment to excellence make him an outstanding addition to the academy and a tremendous asset to the athletes he will lead.

Silverman to the National Stage

Carson McConnell — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 23:39:50 +0000

HUGE CONGRATULATIONS TO CASEY SILVERMAN!

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is incredibly proud to recognize Casey, who has once again earned the honour of representing Denmark on the international stage — this time at the biggest U18 tournament in the world.

This marks Casey’s third international trip overseas, a rare achievement that reflects his dedication, maturity, and the relentless compete level he brings every single day. His game is built on heart, toughness, and responsibility — the kind of player who blocks shots, wins battles in the hard areas, and leads by example shift after shift.

This season with PMHA’s U18 Prep program, Casey has posted 5 goals and 9 assists for 14 points in 30 games, along with just 10 penalty minutes, showing discipline, consistency, and a team‑first mindset. He continues to grow as a well‑rounded student‑athlete, respected by teammates and coaches for his work ethic, attitude, and commitment to improvement.

Casey was a key part of last year’s U17 Prep Division II Championship, and now he’ll carry that same underdog spirit onto the world stage — representing Pilot Mound with pride.

Upcoming Games:

vs Germany — April 23

vs USA — April 24

vs Czechia — April 26

vs Sweden — April 27

We’re proud to have Casey representing PMHA internationally, and we’ll be cheering him on every step of the way. Good luck, Casey — all of PMHA is behind you.

PMHA Welcomes Andrew “Mac” McPherson as Head Coach for Inaugural U17 Program

PMHA — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 00:49:34 +0000

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is proud to announce that Andrew “Mac” McPherson has been named head coach of PMHA’s new U17 team, set to debut in the 2026–27 season. The appointment marks a major milestone for the association as it expands its high‑performance pathway and prepares to launch the program’s first-ever roster.

McPherson brings more than twenty years of combined professional playing and coaching experience across North America and Europe. His career includes a lengthy professional tenure known for leadership, physicality, and a relentless passion for the game—qualities that have carried seamlessly into his coaching career.

Most recently, McPherson has been behind the bench in Germany, working with teams from U9 through U17. His international coaching experience has shaped a development philosophy centered on tactical awareness, technical skill refinement, and strong team identity. Equally important to him is mentorship, ensuring that players grow not only as athletes but as confident, resilient young people.

“Andrew’s experience and approach to player development make him an outstanding fit for this new chapter in PMHA’s history,” said PMHA General Manager Nichole Collins. “His ability to connect with players, build structure, and elevate performance will set the foundation for a successful inaugural season.”

The introduction of the U17 program represents a significant step forward for PMHA, offering local athletes a new opportunity to compete at a higher level while staying connected to their home association. With McPherson at the helm, PMHA is confident the team will enter its first season with strong leadership and a clear vision.

As preparations begin for the 2026–27 campaign, excitement is already building within the community. PMHA looks forward to supporting Coach McPherson and the U17 athletes as they embark on this historic first season.

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy Expands With New Male U17 Program

Carson McConnell — Sat, 06 Dec 2025 16:20:14 +0000

Pilot Mound, MB – What began as a single team in 2015–16 has grown into one of southwestern Manitoba’s most ambitious hockey development programs. Pilot Mound Hockey Academy (PMHA), once the “little academy that could,” is now preparing for its next major leap: the addition of a U17 male team for the upcoming season.

General Manager Nichole Collins says the expansion is about more than just hockey—it’s about opportunity, community, and sustainability.

“If you aren’t growing, you’re falling behind,” Collins explained. “We want to keep building a successful academy and provide as many players as possible with the chance to stay here, develop, and chase their hockey dreams.”

Building a Complete Pathway

Currently, PMHA fields four teams: U15 Male Prep, U17 Male Prep, U18 Male Prep, and U18 Female Prep. With the addition of the new U17 squad—and a U15 team planned within the next two years—the academy will offer a full development pathway for male student-athletes from Grade 8 through Grade 12.

Collins emphasized that the new U17 team will serve as a critical bridge for players who aren’t quite ready to jump directly from U15 Prep to U17 Prep.

“This new U17 team is the perfect stepping stone,” she said. “It allows athletes to continue their development at the right pace, without having to leave our program or community.”

Strengthening Community Roots

For PMHA, expansion isn’t just about hockey—it’s about keeping young people in Pilot Mound. In the past, athletes who weren’t ready for the Prep jump often had to return to their home organizations or transfer to other academies. The new teams will help prevent that, ensuring more students remain part of the PMHA family.

The Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL) has long offered divisions that PMHA is now poised to join fully. Once the expansion is complete, the academy will ice six teams across every division, giving 120 student-athletes identical development experiences both on and off the ice.

Preparing for Growth

The expansion comes with significant logistical challenges. PMHA will hire two new coaches and begin construction on additional dormitory space to house 40 new players. Groundbreaking is planned for April 2026, with a September move-in date targeted.

Recruitment and staffing are already underway, with Collins acknowledging the scale of the project:

“It’s a little scary to jump into, but scary just means growth. We’ve learned to embrace that feeling with excitement and pride.”

Looking Ahead

The U17 team will debut next season, with the U15 team to follow within one to two years. For Collins and the academy, the expansion represents not only growth in numbers but also a stronger reputation within the CSSHL and Canadian hockey.

“We’ve worked hard to increase the quality and depth of our teams,” Collins said. “We’re in a good place now, but we’re not done. This is the right move for our players, our community, and the future of PMHA.”

With its latest expansion, Pilot Mound Hockey Academy continues to prove that small-town programs can make a big impact—on the ice, in the classroom, and throughout the community.

For more information, please reach out to Nichole at Nichole@pilotmoundhockeyacademy.com

Dane Halstead Named Manager, Skill Development: A Visionary Leader Focused on Growth, Character, and Game Excellence

Carson McConnell — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 01:07:44 +0000

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is excited to announce the hiring of Dane Halstead as Manager, Skill Development Program. A natural leader with a deep passion for hockey and player growth, Dane brings a wealth of experience and a transformative vision to our development program.

Dane’s leadership journey began on the ice, where he served as Captain of both the Pilot Mound Buffalo and the Bellingham Blazers in the WSHL—earning the latter role at just 19 years old. His playing career continues with the Carman Beavers of the SEMHL, where he was named Defenseman of the Year for the 2022–2023 season. These accomplishments reflect not only his skill but his ability to inspire and lead by example.

Off the ice, Dane has built a strong foundation in coaching and player development. He holds multiple certifications, including Coach 1, Coach 2, Development 1, and Body Contact and Checking. Over the past three years, he has served as an assistant coach with FGNHA, helping young athletes grow in confidence and capability. His four years as Development Coordinator and Manager at The RINK have been marked by innovation and impact, guiding players to translate technical skills into game-ready performance. Most recently, Dane was named Head Coach of the U15 AA Wild for the 2024–2025 season, a testament to his strategic insight and commitment to youth development.

Dane’s philosophy centers on accountability, character, and community. He believes that hockey development is not just about mastering the game—it’s about shaping well-rounded individuals. His approach ensures that players feel safe, supported, and part of a welcoming hockey environment. He emphasizes game translation, helping athletes understand and apply new concepts in real-time, and prioritizes personal growth alongside athletic achievement.

With Dane stepping into the role of Manager, Skill Development, our organization is entering a new chapter of excellence. His leadership will guide our athletes toward becoming not only better players but stronger teammates and individuals. We are excited to welcome Dane to the team and look forward to the positive impact he will have on our players, our program, and our community.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact Nichole Collins

PMHA & CSSHL RELEASE THE 2025/26 SCHEDULE

Carson McConnell — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 14:06:20 +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 2025/26 regular season schedule. Hockey fans, athletes, and families can now begin marking their calendars and preparing for another action-packed year on the ice.

Anticipated Highlights and Key Updates

This year’s schedule promises intense competition, strong rivalries, and the continued development of high-performance student-athletes. Teams representing PMHA—including Male U15 Prep, Male U17 Prep, Male U18 Prep, and Female U18 Prep—will compete across a slate of regular season matchups and showcase events designed to test their skills, grit, and teamwork.

Changes May Be Coming

Please note that schedule details are subject to change throughout the season. Showcase dates and locations are posted on both the CSSHL and PMHA websites, 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.

View CSSHL Full Schedules Here:

View PMHA’s Full Schedules Here:

The 2025/26 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet. Stay connected and support your favorite athletes as they chase excellence both on the ice and in the classroom.

Scheduling Notice For a comprehensive view of the PMHA season schedule, we recommend referring to the integrated Google Calendars available on our website. These calendars provide an overview of all scheduled activity.

Please note:

The “Game Schedule” section located at the bottom of the page reflects confirmed game dates, times, and venues only.
Showcases, tournaments, and other special events are not currently included in that section and will be added separately as details become available.