Dane Hill

Dane’s hockey journey began in Calgary’s NWCAA leagues, where he skated for U15 and U16 tiers before earning a spot on the Bruins’ Junior B roster. Transitioning behind the bench last spring under seasoned SDR mentors, he gained invaluable practice-planning and coaching experience—complemented by two seasons officiating U9–U15 games. His coaching philosophy centers on building a rock-solid skill foundation—prioritizing skating mechanics, puck control, and shooting—while nurturing the physical and mental aspects that forge complete athletes. Dane structures each session with dynamic warm-ups, focused skill stations (edge-control drills, passing circuits, shooting lanes), and small-group scrimmages, always wrapping with a team huddle to reinforce sportsmanship and set personal goals.

Off the ice, Dane fuels up on chicken and rice, dreams of drawing plays for his childhood favorites the Tampa Bay Lightning, and admires Steven Stamkos’s blend of elite skill and championship leadership. His coaching style—positive, collaborative, and reliable—is underpinned by his mantra, “While skill is important, it can be overcome with a strong work ethic!” He kicks off practices with ACDC’s “TNT,” emphasizes strong skating as the gateway to advanced play, and recalls winning the Esso Minor Hockey title as proof that preparation and teamwork pay off. Dane’s holistic approach—balancing on-ice training with strength and conditioning, mobility work, nutrition, and rest—ensures every player thrives as both an athlete and a teammate.