Elevating the Game

Our purpose is to provide a personalized approach to athletic and academic development that fosters a culture of growth, resilience, and inclusivity. We are committed to building a community of athlete leaders who are driven to make a positive impact in their sport, their communities, and the world. 

Guided Mentorship & Advising

We’re committed to individual growth, offering mentorship and advising to navigate both athletic and academic challenges, fostering future leaders.

Film

Utilizing film techniques, we dissect individual and team performances, providing insights and strategies for continuous improvement and mastery of the sport.

Media Production & Promotion

Our dedicated media team highlights athletes’ stories and successes, creating professional-quality content that showcases their talents and journey, amplifying their presence in the sports world.

TOURNAMENT TEAMS

We field tournament teams, providing athletes with high-level competitive experiences. These opportunities not only hone their skills but also place them in the spotlight for greater exposure and development.

Our team

We provide the athlete with the resources and guidance to achieve their goals.

Advocate Athlete strives to promote an inclusive and empowering narrative that emphasizes the importance of physical and mental well-being, while actively supporting social causes and fostering a sense of community among athletes of all levels and backgrounds.

Nick
minerva 

Co-Owner / Head of Advocacy

As co-owner of Advocate Athlete, Nicholas Minerva brings a wealth of experience and expertise to our team. With a lifelong dedication to hockey spanning over two decades, he has played an integral role in the sport as both a player and a coach.
Nicholas’s passion for hockey has driven him to excel at every level. He has not only competed in top leagues across North America, but he has also spent considerable time coaching hockey players and guiding them towards success. This extensive experience has provided him with a unique perspective on what it takes to thrive in the game, both as an athlete and a mentor.
At Advocate Athlete, our mission is to empower athletes of all levels to achieve their goals. Nicholas’s knowledge, skills, and commitment make him an invaluable asset to our team. Whether you’re a beginner seeking to develop your skills or a seasoned professional aiming to elevate your game, Nicholas and the Advocate Athlete team are here to provide guidance, support, and training both on and off the ice.
With Nicholas’s expertise, you can expect personalized attention and a tailored approach to help you reach your full potential. Whether it’s through individual training sessions or our comprehensive advisory services, Nicholas is dedicated to helping athletes like you succeed. If you’re ready to take your game to the next level, Advocate Athlete is the partner you can trust to guide you on your journey to success.

anthony
merrigan

Co-Owner /Chief Marketing officer

an accomplished professional with a diverse range of experiences, making him an invaluable asset as the COO and Director of Marketing at Advocate Athlete. Graduating from Penn State University with a Bachelors in Business, Anthony brings a strong educational foundation to his role, enabling him to navigate the complexities of the sports industry with ease.

Anthony’s passion for hockey began in his youth, where he honed his skills playing for the Warwick Wildcats and later the Valley Forge Minutemen. His dedication and talent led him to the professional arena, where he proudly represented the Binghamton Black Bears in the FPHL. Notably, Anthony’s commitment to the sport extended beyond traditional ice hockey, as he also excelled in roller hockey as a proud member of Team USA Inline. His participation in international competitions showcased his skill and dedication on a global stage.

With his multifaceted background, Anthony Merrigan brings a wealth of knowledge and a genuine passion for sports to his role. His strategic mindset, combined with his commitment to excellence, drives his efforts in elevating Advocate Athlete’s marketing initiatives and optimizing operational efficiency. Anthony’s unwavering dedication and remarkable skill set make him an invaluable member of the Advocate Athlete team.

Dylan 
Robertson
 

Special Asst. to the Owners/Dir. Player personnel

 Director of Player Personnel and the special assistant to the owners at Advocate Athlete, a company dedicated to helping and promoting hockey players. Dylan is a highly accomplished individual with a background in both accounting and sports management. He graduated from Saint Mary’s University with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Business Intelligence and Analytics. Dylan is no stranger to the world of sports. He was a four-year NCAA student athlete at Saint Mary’s University, where he honed his skills and developed a deep love for hockey. His talent on the ice did not go unnoticed, as he received numerous awards and recognitions throughout his career. In the 2015-2016 season, Dylan was named the Most Valuable Player for the Superior International Junior Hockey League and was also selected for the CJHL All central-Canada hockey team. He was nominated for the RBC Player of the Year award for Best Junior A hockey player in Canada that same year. Dylan’s passion for sports extends beyond the ice and is committed to helping athletes achieve their full potential both on and off the ice. As special assistant to the owners at Advocate Athlete, Dylan brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the team. He is dedicated to helping hockey players succeed, and is always looking for new ways to innovate and improve the industry.

Anthony
minerva

gm / hockey director

a dedicated hockey enthusiast with a strong commitment to developing young players and helping them unlock their full potential. From an early age, Anthony recognized his deep passion for hockey and relentlessly pursued excellence on the ice. His dedication and hard work propelled him to succeed at the highest levels of youth hockey, including earning the distinction of being a district champion. This success continued as he transitioned to junior hockey and culminated in a fulfilling collegiate career in NCAA Div III.
Anthony’s love for teaching and sharing his knowledge led him to collaborate with ex. Captain Bryce Salvador of the New Jersey Devils, where they coached one of the most esteemed 09’ teams in North America. Additionally, Anthony serves as a coach and plays a crucial role in directing a leading academy in the country. At the academy, he focuses on imparting the essential skills of shooting, skating, stick handling, and more to aspiring players. With his wealth of experience and expertise, Anthony is dedicated to refining existing skills and nurturing the growth of new ones in his players. He emphasizes versatility, efficiency, and dexterity, equipping players with the ability to outmaneuver opponents and conduct themselves with professionalism, earning the respect of everyone around them.
Thrilled to join Advocate Athlete, Anthony is eager to channel his passion and knowledge into empowering young players. He looks forward to collaborating with the team to guide and inspire aspiring athletes, enabling them to reach their full potential on and off the ice. Through his commitment to excellence and unwavering support, Anthony strives to make a lasting impact on the development and success of each player he works with.

Nick
Dobrowski

Executive producer and Director of video production

award-winning executive producer and director of video production at Advocate Athlete. With 10 years of experience in promotions, branding, and post-production, Nicholas has a true passion for creating compelling video content that captivates audiences and drives engagement. His expertise and creativity have made him a valuable asset to a variety of organizations, including the New York Jets, NBC Sports, the National Hockey League, IMG, WWE and USAA. As a freelance video editor, Nicholas has worked with a range of sports and entertainment clients, producing and editing content for broadcast and digital platforms. He has established strong relationships with his clients, which has helped him to create compelling branded content for pitch presentations, sales meetings, and internet delivery. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the art of storytelling, Nicholas has helped his clients to connect with their audiences on a deeper level, delivering results that exceed expectations. Nicholas’ work has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including an IOC Golden Rings Silver Award for the Rio 2016 Olympic Promotional Campaign and an Emmy nomination for his work on promotional content for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games. With a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast Telecommunications Mass Media from Temple University, Nicholas has a strong foundation in the technical aspects of video production, With his impressive credentials and extensive experience, Nicholas is a valuable asset to the Advocate Athlete team, bringing his expertise to bear on creating high-quality video content that is sure to captivate audiences.

Kristaps
bazevics

Director of European hockey operations

the Director of European Hockey Operations, is a true hockey prodigy who started playing the game at the age of 4 in Latvia. He played youth hockey alongside notable players such as Zemgus Girgensons, Elvis Merzlikins, and Rihards Marenis at the Edmunds Vasiljevs Hockey School. Kristaps then pursued his passion for the game by leaving home at the age of 13 to play at a higher level outside of Latvia. Kristaps has an impressive professional hockey career spanning across several countries including the USA, Canada, Finland, Austria, Russia, and Slovakia. He has also represented Team Latvia in several international tournaments and earned multiple awards for his exceptional skills on the ice, including the Raimo Helminen Award for Best +/- in Jr. A SM-liiga. As Director of European Hockey Operations, Kristaps brings his vast knowledge and experience in the sport to our athletes and parents. He understands the importance of developing young players and helping them reach their full potential on and off the ice. With Kristaps at the helm, our European prospects have a dedicated leader who is committed to helping them achieve their goals and dreams in hockey.

dylan
johnson

Director of Human Performance

As the Director of Human Performance at Advocate Athlete, Dylan Johnson brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the team. Dylan’s passion for hockey began in his hometown of Cloquet, Minnesota, where he played youth hockey and eventually became a varsity captain at Cloquet High School for four years. He then went on to play in the North American Hockey League (NAHL) for the Odessa Jackalopes and the Minnesota Wilderness, where he also served as captain. Dylan continued his hockey career at the University of Wisconsin-Superior, where he studied Exercise Science and earned a minor in Environmental Wellness. He was also captain of the university’s NCAA Division III hockey team. Dylan then went on to play professionally for the Motor City Rockers in the Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL) and the Birmingham Bulls in the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL). With his extensive background in hockey and exercise science, Dylan is uniquely qualified to lead Advocate Athlete’s human performance division. He holds certifications in CPR/AED, First Responder, and Personal Training, ensuring that the athletes he works with are in safe and capable hands. His dedication to the sport and commitment to excellence make him a valuable asset to the team.

Matthew
weisner

Director of ATHLETiQ dept.

a driven and passionate hockey player and businessman born in Newport Beach, California. Matthew started playing hockey at the young age of 4 and has been dedicated to the sport ever since. He continued to pursue hockey throughout California, playing 16 and 18 AAA hockey for the Los Angeles Jr. Kings Organization. Matthew’s skills and dedication earned him a spot in the Eastern Hockey League (EHL) for one year and the North American Hockey League (NAHL) for two years. After his successful junior career, Matthew earned a commitment to play Division III College Hockey at Babson College. While at Babson, he received a concentration in marketing and a focus in finance, taking advantage of Babson’s reputation as the #1 Entrepreneurship school in the country for the last 25 years. The connections made and lessons learned during his time at Babson will enable Matthew to reach unimaginable heights. After Babson College, Matthew decided to pursue professional hockey by playing for the Birmingham Bulls in the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL). He is extremely passionate towards anything he sets his mind to and has a deep desire to give back to the game. With his experience and expertise, Matthew is a valuable addition to the Advocate Athlete team and is committed to helping players achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

logan
fredricks

Head of finance & accounting

an accomplished finance and accounting professional with a passion for hockey. Logan grew up playing AAA hockey for the Mercer Chiefs before moving on to play junior hockey for the Kirkland Lake Gold Miners in the NOJHL. His hard work and dedication on the ice paid off when he helped lead his team to the 2019 NCAA D3 National Championship while playing for Wisconsin Stevens Point. In addition to his success as a hockey player, Logan has also excelled academically, earning three degrees in Accounting, Marketing, and F.I.R.E. (finance, insurance, and real estate) as well as a minor in Communication. His expertise in finance and accounting has led him to work for Ultra Chemical Inc. as an Accounting Associate. Despite his busy career, Logan remains committed to hockey and currently plays for the Guilford Flames in the EIHL. He also brings his passion for the game to the coaching realm, and serves as Head of Finance and Accounting for Advocate Athlete while also coaching and mentoring young athletes. His extensive experience in both finance and hockey make him an invaluable asset to the Advocate Athlete team.

Mike
Gillespie

Director of skills

a dedicated hockey player and coach with a passion for the game. Born in 1996, Mike grew up playing locally for the New Jersey Rockets and Westchester Express, honing his skills and developing a love for the sport. His hard work and dedication led him to play in the highly competitive USHL for the Lincoln Stars, where he excelled and earned a Division 1 scholarship to Ohio State University. After Ohio State, Mike continued his hockey career at one of the nation’s top Division 3 hockey schools, Oswego State College, where he earned a degree in business administration. His commitment to the game didn’t end there, as he now plays professional hockey for the Birmingham Bulls in the SPHL. In addition to his playing career, Mike has worked with groups like Top Line to share his knowledge and passion for hockey with young players. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Advocate team and is dedicated to helping players achieve their goals both on and off the ice.

megan
knight

Director of Operations

the Director of Operations at Advocate Athlete. Megan is a highly motivated and experienced professional with a passion for health and wellness. She holds an associate degree in leadership and a degree in recreation and sports management, which has equipped her with the knowledge and skills to excel in her role at Advocate Athlete. Megan’s expertise also extends to fitness theory (BCRPA) and nutrition , which she utilizes to help athletes achieve peak performance both on and off the ice. Her dedication to promoting a healthy lifestyle and her ability to motivate and inspire others make her an invaluable asset to the Advocate Athlete team. With her strong background in sports management and leadership, Megan is well-equipped to oversee the daily operations of Advocate Athlete. She is committed to ensuring that the company provides top-notch service to its clients and that each athlete receives personalized attention and guidance tailored to their unique needs and goals. Megan’s passion for health and wellness drives her to constantly seek out new and innovative ways to improve the services offered by Advocate Athlete. As the Director of Operations, she is dedicated to helping athletes achieve their full potential both on and off the ice.

Christopher
shearer

Director of Player Safety and Security

an experienced law enforcement professional who brings over 25 years of expertise to Advocate Athlete as the Director of Safety and Security. He is a graduate of Bridgewater-Raritan High School West and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from West Virginia University. Throughout his career with the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, Christopher served as a Detective Captain and oversaw all aspects of criminal investigations. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy Class 275 and has been recognized as an expert witness in narcotics by the Superior Court. Additionally, Christopher has taught various narcotic-related courses and classes, showcasing his dedication to maintaining a safe and secure community. With his wealth of knowledge and experience, Christopher is a valuable asset to Advocate Athlete and its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of its athletes and staff.

jimmy
soper

Director of Coaching and Instructor

a passionate and driven individual who has spent his life dedicated to the sport of hockey. His career began with the Waterloo Wolves minor hockey team in southern Ontario and he went on to play juniors hockey in the OHL for the Kitchener Rangers, where he honed his skills and gained valuable experience. After finishing with the Truro Bearcats, he played and attended Wilfred Laurier in USports for university. In addition to his hockey career, Jimmy has obtained a financial advisor license in both Canada and the USA, showcasing his versatility and business acumen. His professional hockey career includes playing 7 years in various leagues such as the ECHL, SPHL, FHL, and even a chance in the AHL. As the Director of Coaching and Instructor at Advocate Athlete, Jimmy brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the organization. He is dedicated to developing and cultivating the skills of young athletes and helping them reach their full potential. His passion for the sport is evident in everything he does, and he is committed to ensuring that every player under his guidance receives the best possible coaching and instruction.

Aaron Huffnagle 

Director of Player Development 

Introducing Aaron Huffnagle, our dynamic Director of Player Development at Advocate Athlete. With an impressive hockey journey from youth leagues to the professional ranks, Aaron brings unparalleled experience and passion to our team.
Aaron’s hockey career began with the Igloo Jaguars and Flyers Youth, where his talent and dedication set him apart.
Through later years, Aaron’s abilities led Cherokee High School, earning the titles of State Champions and Flyers Cup Champions.
Transitioning to junior hockey, Aaron made an impact with the Northern Cyclones EHL and Philadelphia Flyers USPHL, proving his abilities on a bigger stage.
Aaron’s pursuit of excellence continued in college, where he competed with SUNY Oswego, leaving a lasting impression on the ice.
At the professional level, Aaron showcased his adaptability and talent in leagues such as the SPHL with the Birmingham Bulls, Roanoke Railyard Dawgs, and Evansville Thunderbolts, as well as the ECHL with the Fort Wayne Komets and Norfolk Admirals.
With a strong educational foundation, Aaron is a proud graduate of Cherokee High School and holds a degree from SUNY Oswego, highlighting his commitment to both academics and athletics.
As our Director of Player Development, Aaron’s knowledge and dedication are unmatched. Whether you’re a budding talent or a seasoned player, his guidance will help you to reach your full potential. Join Advocate Athlete and embark on a transformative journey to success under Aaron Huffnagle’s leadership.

Jack
lane

head of scouting

the Head of Scouting at Advocate Athlete, a company dedicated to promoting and supporting hockey players. With over 15 years of experience playing hockey at various levels, Jack is a true veteran of the sport, and his passion for the game has led him to take on various roles within the hockey community. Jack’s journey in hockey began in youth hockey, where he developed his skills and love for the game. From there, he went on to play in several prestigious leagues, including the Eastern Hockey League (EHL) and the North American Hockey League (NAHL). Jack’s experience as a player, both at the junior and collegiate level, gives him an in-depth understanding of the game  He served as an assistant coach for the Jersey Shore Whalers, where he quickly made a name for himself in the hockey community. The following season, Jack was offered the head coaching job and head scout for the New Jersey 87’s U16/U18 team.  His vast knowledge of the game and experience both on and off the ice make him an invaluable asset to the hockey community. As the Head of Scouting at Advocate Athlete, Jack is committed to helping players achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

ryan
romeo

Director of Amateur Scouting

a native of Rochester, New York, developed a passion for hockey at a young age, starting his journey in the sport at the age of 5. Throughout his career, Romeo played at the highest levels of youth hockey, earning a spot on the Tier 1 Elite League U18 Junior Sabres team. From there, he moved on to play for the New Jersey Hitmen of the USPHL, where he continued to excel and further hone his skills. Romeo’s success on the ice culminated with a championship win with the New Hampshire Monarchs. After his successful junior career, Romeo went on to play Division 3 hockey for SUNY Brockport, where he was recognized as Athlete of the Year by his school and was nominated for Best Player in the country. He earned an undergraduate degree in Business and Finance and a Master’s degree in Business Administration. Following his collegiate career, Romeo signed with multiple teams in the ECHL, including the Reading Royals, where he showcased his skill and leadership on the ice. Romeo’s drive and determination led him to his current role as the Director of Amateur Scouting, where he utilizes his knowledge and experience to identify and recruit the top up-and-coming talent in the hockey world. Romeo currently plays for the Birmingham Bulls in the SPHL while dedicating his time to scouting and developing the next generation of hockey stars.

ivan
bonderenko

Associate director of European Hockey Operations

a true international hockey player and coach with a wealth of experience. Born and raised in Moscow, Russia, he began his hockey journey playing for several clubs in his hometown, including CSKA (Red Army), Olympiets, and Vityaz AAA. Ivan then made his way to the United States, where he played junior hockey in the WSHL and GMHL. After his junior career, Ivan turned pro and won a championship with the Columbus River Dragons in the FHL. He continued his pro career with stints in the SPHL for the Pensacola Ice Flyers and the ECHL for the Wichita Thunder. Ivan also has experience as a coach and instructor in both Canada and the USA. As the associate director of European hockey operations at Advocate Athlete, Ivan brings a unique perspective and a deep knowledge of the game to the Advocate Athlete team.

Laurie
lane

Director of Education

the Director of Education at our organization. Hailing from South River, New Jersey, Laurie has always had a passion for teaching and inspiring others. She attended The College of New Jersey (TCNJ), where she earned dual degrees in Childhood Education and Elementary Education. With over 20 years of experience in education, Laurie has taught in various settings, including 12 years in Kindergarten and 12 years in 3rd grade. Her passion for teaching extends beyond the classroom, as she has also worked as a tutor, a teacher of adult English classes, and has even published several children’s books. As a mother of five children, Laurie understands the importance of a quality education and is committed to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to learn and grow. She brings her extensive experience and passion for teaching to our organization, where she is dedicated to providing the best educational resources and support for our community of learners.

joe
minerva

assistant general manager

As Assistant General Manager of Advocate Athlete, Joe brings a wealth of experience and passion for ice hockey to our team. Joe has been involved in the sport for over a decade, having played tier 1 for the New Jersey Rockets, and one season for the Oklahoma City Blazers in the WSHL. Joe’s experience as an Assistant Coach for the New York Applecore, coupled with his extensive playing experience, has given him a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed on the ice. His dedication to the sport and to his players is evident in his approach as a coach and mentor. At Advocate Athlete, we’re dedicated to helping athletes of all levels achieve their goals, and Joe’s passion for the sport and his commitment to his players makes him a valuable member of our team. He stays up-to-date with current events in the hockey world, and is always looking for new opportunities to learn and grow. Outside of hockey, Joe enjoys spending time with friends and family, playing sports, and exploring the great outdoors. His inspiring attitude and desire to challenge himself makes him an asset to the team and a great role model for athletes of all ages. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, Joe and the team at Advocate Athlete are here to help you reach your full potential and achieve your goals.

derek
schultz

roller hockey director

an accomplished hockey player and experienced coach with a passion for the sport. Born and raised in Philadelphia, Derek began playing ice hockey at a young age and quickly developed a love for the game. He played for Archbishop Ryan Middle School and the Bucks County Glaciers before transitioning to roller hockey and joining the Black Ice Youth Program. Derek’s dedication and hard work paid off, as he went on to play for Black Ice’s Pro roller hockey team. Today, Derek is not only an elite player on the Black Ice Pro Roller Hockey Team but also serves as the Director of Roller Hockey at Advocate Athlete. In his role, he brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the development of our roller hockey players, working tirelessly to help them achieve their goals both on and off the rink. Derek’s achievements in the sport speak for themselves, with accolades including being the 2015 NARCh Shootout Skills Competition Winner, 2017 PIHA Pro Champion, 2020 PAMA Pro Invitational Champion, and Team USA Roller Hockey 3rd Place finish. His passion for the game and commitment to developing the next generation of roller hockey players make him a valuable member of our team. At Advocate Athlete, we’re proud to have Derek as part of our coaching staff, where his dedication and expertise continue to inspire our athletes and elevate the level of play across our programs.

olivia Ann

mental health consultant

is an accomplished mental health professional with a diverse range of experiences in education and customer service. She began her journey in Monroe Township High School and went on to work as a customer service representative before dedicating her time to working with children in a preschool setting from 2014 to 2017. Olivia also worked as a nanny in 2019, providing care and support for families in need.

Olivia went on to pursue her passion for psychology and graduated from Georgian Court University with a Bachelor’s degree. She continued her education at Georgian Court University, earning a School Counseling M.Ed., an M.A. in Administration & Leadership leading to School Supervisor Certificate, Principal Certificate, School Administrator Certificate, and/or School Business Administrator Certificate, as well as an Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate.

With this comprehensive education, Olivia is well-equipped to support athletes and their families in their mental health needs. She has a deep understanding of the complexities of the human mind and the importance of providing customized care and support. Her dedication to her profession is evident in her commitment to ongoing education and professional development. Olivia’s skills and experience make

julia
elizabeth

health consultant

Julia Elizabeth is a health consultant with an extensive background in athletics and healthcare. She began her athletic journey with travel softball teams, North Brunswick Blast and Jersey Girls, before transitioning to Monroe Township Varsity Cheerleading and Varsity Softball, where she served as captain. Graduating from Monroe Township High School in 2019 with a passion for healthcare, Julia pursued a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Georgian Court University. She is BLS, NA, and ALCS certified, and has worked as OR/ICU staff at Deborah Heart and Lung Center in Browns Mills, NJ, and ER staff at Southern Ocean Medical Center in Manahawkin, NJ.

Julia is dedicated to advancing her career in healthcare and is set to obtain her RN license by the spring of 2024. With her athletic background and extensive healthcare experience, she brings a unique perspective and a wealth of knowledge to her role as a health consultant.

carson
vance

associate of player development

the Associate of Player Development at Advocate Athlete, brings a wealth of hockey experience and knowledge to his role. Growing up, Carson honed his skills with the Junior Coyotes in youth hockey before embarking on a successful junior hockey career. He competed in the NAHL and primarily in the USHL, gaining valuable experience at the highest levels of junior hockey.

Continuing his passion for the game, Carson pursued a college education, initially attending Western Michigan University. He later transferred to Oswego, where he completed his studies and obtained a degree in business. Throughout his college years, Carson showcased his dedication and commitment both on and off the ice, preparing himself for the challenges of professional hockey.

Carson’s professional career has taken him to the SPHL and ECHL, where he has spent the last three years competing against top-level players and further developing his skills. His experience at the professional level provided him with valuable insights into the game and a deep understanding of the physical and mental demands of playing at that level. Now, as the Associate of Player Development, Carson utilizes his vast hockey background and expertise to guide and support athletes on their journey to success

Austin Albrecht

Associate of Advocacy

 a driven and accomplished Associate Director of Advocacy with a passion for hockey and communication. Growing up in Flemington, NJ, he honed his skills playing for the Mercer Chiefs before moving on to play at the junior level for the Muskegon Lumberjacks USHL. From there, he played NCAA DI hockey for UMass Amherst and earned a degree in Communications, utilizing his strong communication skills in all aspects of his career. As a professional hockey player, Austin has traveled the world and played in various leagues, including the ECHL, EIHL, and France. This international experience has given him a unique perspective on the sport and allowed him to work with players from diverse backgrounds. Throughout his career, Austin has consistently demonstrated strong leadership skills, serving as a role model and mentor to young players and earning the respect of his peers. His passion for advocacy and helping others has led him to become an Associate Director of Advocacy, where he uses his communication skills to promote causes and initiatives that align with his values. Austin’s commitment to excellence and his love for the game make him an invaluable asset to the Advocate Athlete team.

troy 
button

Associate Director
of Hockey Ops

a highly experienced Associate Director of Hockey Operations who brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our organization. He began his hockey journey with the Saint Claire Shore Saints AA and played high school hockey for Royal Oak Shrine. As a captain for Junior Hockey NOJHL Elliot Lake Wildcats, Troy’s leadership and dedication were evident. He went on to play for Buffalo State in NCAA Division 3, serving as captain in his final year, and earning a Bachelor’s degree in Economics with a concentration in Finance. After college, Troy continued his hockey career as a professional player for the Pensacola Ice Flyers. Alongside his passion for hockey, Troy also holds professional certifications such as LAH, SIE, Series 6, and Series 63, and is a Financial Advisor at Northwestern Mutual. His experience and expertise in both hockey and finance make him an invaluable member of our team. Troy’s leadership skills, coupled with his dedication and passion for the sport, make him an excellent addition to our organization.

BLAKE
CUDMORE

MENTOR / AGENT

With over 20 years of experience in hockey, Blake is driven and passionate about helping others reach their full potential, both on and off the ice. His journey through minor hockey, climbing the ranks to AAA in minor midget, and playing three years of Junior A in Canada, exemplifies his dedication and perseverance. Earning a scholarship and progressing from ACHA to the SPHL, and now playing in the FPHL, demonstrates his commitment to trusting the process and overcoming obstacles.

​Blake firmly believes that a player’s value extends beyond their on-ice performance. While achieving results and contributing to the team is crucial, being a likable and positive presence every day is equally important. His career is a testament to the importance of intangibles and personal growth in achieving success in hockey and life.

MIKE COSENTINO

HEAD GOALIE AGENT

Mike Cosentino brings a wealth of experience to Advocate Athlete, having coached and managed at various levels of hockey. He served as the interim head coach and assistant general manager for the Elmira Mammoth in the FPHL and has held coaching roles with the Old Bridge Knights, Brick Hockey Club, Swain’s Hockey Skills and Development, and Norwalk High School in CT. His positions have ranged from head coach to goalie coach.

​Hailing from Point Pleasant, New Jersey, Mike’s playing career includes youth hockey with the New Jersey Titans AAA programs, varsity hockey and baseball at Red Bank Catholic High School, and junior hockey with the Philadelphia Revolution of the EHL. Mike also played NCAA college hockey for King’s College and Neumann University and had a professional stint in the FPHL with call-ups to the SPHL and ECHL.

​Mike’s coaching philosophy centers on the belief that consistent daily improvements lead to significant changes over time. He emphasizes attention to detail and discipline to ensure players have a successful and rewarding hockey experience.

Jackson

Bohan

advisor

Jackson Bohan brings 18 years of hockey experience to Advocate Athlete. He started his journey with minor and major midget hockey, followed by a season with the Kimberley Dynamiters in the KIJHL. Jackson then played three years of junior A hockey for the Humboldt Broncos, Melville Millionaires, and Whitecourt Wolverines. After his junior career, he transitioned to professional hockey in Sweden with Osby IK for two seasons, before joining the Blue Ridge Bobcats in the FPHL.

​

Jackson believes in the power of a strong work ethic and a positive attitude, both on and off the ice. He values players who work hard, never quit, and give their all, even in practice. His extensive experience and dedication to the game make him a valuable asset to Advocate Athlete, where he inspires and guides the next generation of hockey players to reach their full potential.