About
About: The Journey of Elite Diamond Ice Hockey Academy
Welcome to Elite Diamond Ice Hockey Academy, where dreams take flight on the ice! Our story begins with a love for hockey that blossomed at an early age, and it's a testament to the power of determination, growth, and the belief that anything is possible.
I started skating when I was just 4 or 5 years old, captivated by the feeling of freedom that gliding across the ice brought me. There was something magical about that sensation; the ice cleared my mind and filled my heart with joy. Playing house league and attending clinics all over Long Island, I fondly remember my time at the Town of Oyster Bay Bethpage Ice Rink, where my passion for hockey deepened.
As I grew older, I explored roller hockey but quickly realized it could never match the thrill of being on the ice. I remember the disappointment of being cut from my middle school hockey team; my hands weren’t quite good enough. For days and weeks, I felt crushed, but rather than allowing it to defeat me, I shifted my focus to baseball and football, finding new avenues to express my athleticism.
During this time, I was fortunate to have a coach like Scott Lineman, who became a mentor in my life. He not only taught me the fundamentals of weightlifting but also instilled values of dedication and hard work. As I transitioned through middle school and high school, I experienced challenges, including being overlooked for the quarterback position. Initially playing on the offensive line, Coach Scott eventually recognized my strengths on defense. By my senior year, I earned the position of starting linebacker, not through connections, but because of the effort I put in and the growth I demonstrated.
Alongside my football journey, I continued to play baseball, participating in a travel program. However, I faced setbacks, including being cut from the school team in 9th and 10th grades. Instead of giving up, I chose to push through, determined to improve and learn how to win. My perseverance paid off when Coach Scott invited me to join the varsity baseball team in 11th grade. Although I struggled for playing time, I knew that hard work and commitment were essential.
As high school progressed, I encountered challenges outside of sports, which led me to lose my sense of identity. Despite enjoying a good senior football season and experiencing playoff victories, I had to sacrifice baseball to focus on work to support my newfound habits. After high school, I headed to college in Colorado, where I joined a fraternity but felt increasingly isolated, missing the camaraderie of hockey.
Upon returning home, I reconnected with old friends and reignited my love for the sport at Port Washington Ice Rink. This revival led me to transfer schools to focus on my education and hockey. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I made a pivotal choice to quit smoking and prioritize my health, fueled by my desire to become a better player.
I transferred to James Madison University with aspirations to play ACHA D2 hockey. Despite being told I wasn’t good enough, I remained committed to my journey. With determination and newfound confidence, I became a certified USA Hockey Level 1 coach, ready to share my passion with others. It was during this time that I met someone from Europe who encouraged me to think bigger—beyond just one rink.
Now, my mission is to create Elite Diamond Ice Hockey Academy and build a network of rinks worldwide, providing opportunities for aspiring athletes at every level. Whether you’re a 5-year-old beginner, a dedicated 15-year-old, or even a retired pro, our academy is here to help you improve your skills and embrace the sport you love.
At Elite Diamond Ice Hockey Academy, we believe that winning is a team effort. By sharing knowledge and supporting one another, we create a community where everyone can thrive. Join us on this journey, and together we will elevate the game of hockey for all!
Join the Movement: Follow our journey and connect with us to learn more about our programs and vision for the future of hockey!
