PILOT MOUND HOCKEY ACADEMY

FEMALE ADVANCEMENT – JORJA ATKINSON

Carson McConnell — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 18:00:00 +0000

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is proud to recognize third‑year student‑athlete, Jorja Atkinson, for her commitment to the University of Jamestown (ACHA – Division I) in Jamestown, ND.

A forward from Chilliwack, British Columbia, Jorja has been a dedicated member of the Buffaloes since the 2023–24 season. Across her three seasons in Black and Yellow, she has demonstrated steady development, resilience, and a team‑first approach that has made her a valued presence on and off the ice.

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

“Jorja is the kind of player every coach appreciates—reliable, hardworking, and consistently focused on improving her game. She brings a strong compete level to practices and games, and she has made significant strides each season through her willingness to learn and her commitment to doing things the right way.

Her growth as a player has been evident in her increased confidence with the puck, improved decision‑making, and her ability to contribute in all three zones. Jorja plays with honesty and purpose, and she embraces the details that make teams successful. She is a great teammate, a positive influence in the dressing room, and someone who represents our program with pride.”

Since joining PMHA in 2023–24, Jorja has appeared in 86 regular‑season CSSHL games, recording 2 goals and 8 assists for 10 points, along with 40 penalty minutes across her three seasons.

Her 2025–26 season has marked her strongest statistical year to date, posting 2 goals and 6 assists for 8 points in 29 games, reflecting her continued development and growing impact in the lineup.

Jorja has also contributed in postseason play, including a standout performance at the 2026 Female U18 Prep Division II Western Championships, where she recorded 1 goal and 2 assists in 4 games.

Jorja’s progression is a testament to her work ethic and her dedication to the daily habits required of a high‑performance athlete. She approaches challenges with maturity, supports her teammates, and consistently brings energy to the rink. Her development over three seasons reflects both her personal drive and her trust in the process.

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is proud of Jorja’s continued growth and the example she sets within the program.

Congratulations, Jorja—and keep pushing forward. The best is yet to come in!

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.

PMHA U18 Female Prep Coaching Announcement

Carson McConnell — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 23:49:29 +0000

We are thrilled to welcome Oona Parviainen as the new Head Coach of PMHA’s U18 Female Prep team. Oona joins us from Finland with an extraordinary playing and coaching pedigree that will bring world‑class expertise to our athletes.

A former elite forward, Oona’s playing career includes:

Over two decades of top‑level competition, including KalPa, Espoon Blues, and RoKi
Nine Finnish championships, plus multiple silver and bronze medals
Representation of Finland on the world stage, including the 2002 Salt Lake City and 2006 Torino Olympic Games, as well as the 2005 World Championship in Norrköping

After her playing career, Oona transitioned into coaching with the same competitive spirit and commitment to excellence. She has coached at the Finnish women’s major league level, guided RoKi from the lowest division to the top league, and served internationally as a guest coach at IIHF camps and the USA Girls National 16/17 Player Development Camp.

Her coaching philosophy centers on honesty, approachability, and a deep commitment to athlete development. She is known for her strong hockey IQ, leadership, and ability to blend European structure with North American pace and physicality—a combination that will elevate the performance and confidence of our athletes.

Oona will join PMHA full‑time in August, and we are incredibly excited for the impact she will have on our program.

Assistant Coach Kelly Hrominchuk

Last week, we introduced Kelly Hrominchuk, who will serve as Assistant Coach for the U18 Female Prep team. Kelly brings more than 20 years of coaching experience across the U.S. and Canada, including female high school hockey, the Winnipeg Storm, and Manitoba Jr. Ice.

Her extensive background in social work—specializing in youth support—adds a valuable layer to her coaching approach, emphasizing character, resilience, and team culture. Kelly will join the team in April for the evaluation camp and remain with the group throughout the spring.

A Coaching Duo Built for Success

Together, Oona and Kelly form a dynamic, experienced, and athlete‑centered coaching team. Their combined strengths in skill development, leadership, mentorship, and competitive strategy will provide our players with an exceptional environment to grow both on and off the ice.

PMHA is energized by the vision and passion they bring to the program, and we look forward to watching them build a strong, cohesive, and competitive team for the 2026–2027 season.

Thank You to Coaches Ryan Carels and Kirt Fortney

We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to Coach Ryan Carels and Coach Kirt Fortney for their dedication over the past two seasons. Their commitment, kindness, and unwavering support have had a meaningful impact on our student‑athletes. We wish them the very best in their next chapters.

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy U18 Female Prep Coaching Staff Announcement

Carson McConnell — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 02:43:25 +0000

Pilot Mound Hockey Academy is proud to continue strengthening our U18 Female Prep program as we prepare for the 2026–27 season. Today, we are excited to announce the addition of Kelly Hrominchuk as Assistant Coach for the U18 Female Prep team.

With more than 20 years of experience developing athletes both on and off the ice, Kelly brings a wealth of knowledge in skill development, character building, and team culture. Her coaching background includes:

Female high school hockey programs in the United States
The Winnipeg Storm
The Manitoba Jr. Ice

Kelly’s extensive experience working with female athletes is complemented by her professional background in social work, specializing in supporting youth. This unique combination of technical coaching expertise and youth‑centered mentorship strengthens our commitment to developing well‑rounded student‑athletes who excel in sport, academics, and personal growth.

In addition to her coaching experience, Kelly has a long history in the game as a player and leader, giving her a deep understanding of the female hockey pathway and the demands placed on today’s student‑athletes. Her ability to connect with players, foster confidence, and build strong team environments will be a tremendous asset to our program.

Kelly’s passion for empowering young women, her dedication to athlete development, and her commitment to creating positive, competitive team culture make her an outstanding addition to our coaching staff.

Please join us in welcoming Kelly Hrominchuk to the Pilot Mound Hockey Academy family as we look forward to an exciting 2026–27 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