Coaches Spotlights | Building Better Players—and Better People: Inside the St. Mary’s Knights Hockey Program
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In high school hockey, the job of a coach extends far beyond systems and skill drills. At St. Mary’s College, our mission is to help young athletes develop not only into better hockey players—but stronger, more resilient people. As coaches, we see it as our responsibility to teach players how to truly understand the game, hone their individual talents, and learn to contribute as part of a cohesive team. Just as vital is preparing them mentally to make confident, game-speed decisions under pressure.
We believe that confidence fuels performance. Players need the freedom to make mistakes, learn from them, and trust their instincts. As former NHL coach Ted Nolan once told me, the biggest difference-maker among players with equal skill is simple: confidence. That wisdom shapes our entire approach—we teach concepts and strategies at a high level, but we also create an environment where players feel safe to take risks, fail, and grow.
In today’s fast-paced game, relying on two lines is no longer enough. Our three-line system ensures all players are engaged, rested, and ready—running 30 to 45-second high-effort shifts that keep legs fresh and minds sharp. We aim to build depth and role clarity across the lineup, so by midseason, every player understands how they contribute to our success.
Positioning and play-reading are taught at an elite level because we know smart hockey beats raw skill. We don’t just teach kids where to be—we teach them why. A well-coached team plays like a chess match, using proactive positioning to force turnovers and create high-percentage scoring chances.
We emphasize that players are not just forwards or defensemen. When we have the puck, we’re all attacking. Without it, we’re all defending. Success depends on everyone reading the play and reacting as a unit. This philosophy builds awareness and accountability throughout the team.
Our culture is built on respect, commitment, and daily accountability. We don’t shy away from setting high standards, and we support each player in meeting them. We start every year with a clear guide outlining our expectations—on the ice, in the classroom, and in the community. Culture isn’t a speech—it’s a daily choice. Coaches must model it, live it, and reinforce it at every opportunity.
Discipline in our program is not about punishment—it’s about correcting behavior and helping players grow. We address mistakes through teaching, and only escalate when necessary. But for issues that violate our values—especially around respect and integrity—we take immediate and serious action, involving parents and administration as needed.
A big part of our development strategy is individualized learning. With the help of insights from my wife—an experienced high school administrator—we recognize that players absorb information in different ways: visual, auditory, or kinesthetic. We tailor our approach to meet their learning needs, and build custom development plans that support both team goals and personal growth.
We’re also lucky to have a coaching staff loaded with knowledge and passion. I’m proud of the team we’ve built this season—each coach brings a wealth of experience across different levels of hockey. Their insight will be instrumental as we aim to compete for City, NOSSA, and OFSAA gold.
Personally, I’m honored to be back at St. Mary’s—this time as a coach. As a former Knight in hockey, track, and football, I know how formative these years can be. I still carry lessons from coaches like Greg Sicoly, Terry McPherson, Scott McPherson, and Mike McPherson, Marty Smith, Richard Maunu, Larry Marsh, and Jim Maclean. Their impact on me was profound, and now it’s my turn to pay it forward.
Special thanks to Michelle Guzzo for her incredible work behind the scenes organizing the team and setting us up for success. Her leadership and dedication are a huge part of what makes this program run.
Finally, we believe that parents are partners in our process. We ask for their support, consistency, and understanding as we guide these young athletes. Clear, respectful communication is key—and we always encourage dialogue after the 24-hour cooling-off period. Their involvement—when aligned with our goals—elevates everything we do.
At St. Mary’s, we’re building more than just hockey players. We’re developing young men with character, discipline, and confidence. And with full buy-in from players, coaches, and parents, we believe the results will speak for themselves.
We’re excited for the season ahead—and proud to be part of the Knights tradition. Let’s go to work.
Coaching Staff
Lucas Provenzano – Head Coach
Michelle Guzzo – Manager
Gavin Dupuis – Asst Coach Offence
Rod Trudel – Asst Coach Defence
Nick Niro – Strength and Conditioning
Danny Guzzo – Special Teams
Jonathon Bishop – Player Development
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