Tryout Schedule (Elgin Thames Minor Hockey)

Ryan Fletcher

I am truly excited and honored to be coaching the U9MD1 team this season. Hockey has always been a significant part of my life, from growing up and playing in Dorchester to living here my entire life. I’ve had the privilege of being an assistant coach with the U7 team and previously serving as the head coach for U9MD2 Dorchester Dragons, which has provided me with a wealth of experience working with young players.  

In my playing career, I had the opportunity to compete in Junior C hockey in Aylmer, which deepened my understanding and love for the game. This experience drives my passion for developing young players, teaching them not just the skills they need to succeed on the ice, but also instilling the confidence to be the best players they can be.  

As a coach, my goal is to create a positive team culture where every player feels included and valued, both on and off the ice. I want our players to learn the importance of teamwork, sportsmanship, and respect, while also developing their skills to reach their full potential.  

Additionally, I have served as president of the Dorchester Men’s NBC Hockey League for 10 years, further demonstrating my commitment to the local hockey community and the development of the game at all levels.  

I look forward to an exciting season, building relationships with these young athletes, and helping them grow in the game we all love!×

Mark John

Mark John is a Canadian hockey coach for the U10A Elgin Thames 73's. Born in Oakville, Ontario, Mark is the first Canadian-born member of his family, who originally comes from the Czech Republic. Growing up with influences from both Canadian and European hockey cultures, Mark has blended these philosophies into his coaching style.

After spending his first two seasons with the Dorchester Dragons, Mark is excited to begin his third year, now in the inaugural season for the Elgin Thames 73's. Mark’s coaching revolves around creating an environment where players are inspired to grow, both on and off the ice. He focuses on building strong relationships with his players, creating a fun and engaging atmosphere that ignites their passion for the game and excitement for coming to the rink.

As a head coach, Mark emphasizes the importance of teamwork and teaches valuable life lessons through hockey, preparing players for the challenges of advancing to the next level of competition. His expectation for all players is to bring hard work and dedication to every practice, with a focus on preparation for the upcoming games. Practices are designed to reflect game intensity, with a focus on Energy, Effort, and Execution. Looking ahead to the 2025-26 season, Mark sees this as a key opportunity to not only grow as a coach but also to continue teaching players the value of challenging themselves. He is focused on helping players develop leadership skills and reinforcing the mindset that hard work will always outpace talent.×

Rankin MacDonald

The 2025-2026 season will mark my third year as head coach of the 2015 group and my ninth year involved in minor hockey. I’ve been around the game nearly my entire life, having played hockey since the age of four. Since 2017, I’ve served in a variety of roles, gaining valuable experience and perspective at all levels of the game.  

My coaching philosophy centers around work ethic, attitude, respect, and a genuine love for hockey. I prioritize skill development, strong team play, and building a positive team culture on and off the ice. I believe in creating a competitive and supportive environment where players can grow as athletes and individuals. My goal is not only to help players succeed at their current level, but also support their growth as lifelong athletes who carry lessons of the game with them beyond the rink.×

Rob Belore

To say I am excited to represent the U11B team in the inaugural season of the 73's is a understatement!  

As a local employer I have seen the benefits of hiring youth that learn from the involvement in sport the importance of teamwork, dedication and the ability to take advice and criticism.  

This will be my first-year head coaching, and I am eager to put together a coaching staff that will help kids to develop skill sets and most importantly have fun. It’s important every child feels like a valued member of the team and is excited to come to the rink. It’s all for the children but I also understand the dedication it takes from the parents. Building a positive parent and player atmosphere will bring together a winning culture.  

My goal for the team is to build a hardworking culture that passes the puck well without fear of making a mistake but learning from it. Strive to win but understanding how to take a loss and represent your community in a positive way!×

Nathan Thompson

Nathan is a dedicated minor hockey coach, this will be his 3rd season coaching the 2014 age group. He was the assistant coach in 2023/2024 and head coach last season. Passionate about skill development, teamwork, and fostering a love for the game, Nathan focuses on creating a positive and competitive environment for players to grow both on and off the ice. Committed to continuous learning and development, Nathan emphasizes strong fundamentals, hockey IQ, and respect for the game.

Philosophy Development First: My primary goal is to help every player grow as a hockey player and as a person. Skill development, hockey IQ, and fostering a love for the game are more important than winning every game.  

Compete with Character: I teach players to play hard, play smart, and play fair. Effort, discipline, and respect for teammates, opponents, officials, and the game itself are non-negotiable.  

Team Over Self: We win and lose as a team. I emphasize unselfish play, communication, and accountability. Every player has a role, and every role matters.  

Positive Environment: Players learn best when they’re confident and having fun. I create a safe, supportive space where kids feel encouraged to take risks, make mistakes, and grow from them.  

Long-Term Success: My coaching aims to set players up for success at the next level — not just this season. That means building good habits, strong fundamentals, and mental toughness that will last beyond U12.×

Nathan Rowland

My name is Nathan Rowland and I'll be the inaugural head coach of the U13A Elgin Thames 73's. I bring over a decade of experience and a deep passion for player development to the role. After serving 11 seasons as an assistant coach at various levels within both the Belmont and East Elgin Minor Hockey Associations, I'm very excited to step into my first head coaching position — an opportunity I see as a chance to bring my full vision for youth hockey to life.  

All of my playing years were spent in the Belmont minor system before moving on to play a couple of seasons with the Jr D Bombers.   
My coaching philosophy is built on three pillars: teamwork, individual development, and inspiring young players to become the best version of themselves—both on and off the ice. I believe that when players understand their role within a team and commit to growing personally, the entire team benefits and reaches new heights together.  

Coaching Style

My coaching style is structured, positive, and player focused. I believe that development comes from a balance of accountability and encouragement. There will be an emphasis on skill-building through purposeful drills, game-situation scenarios, and consistent feedback—always with an eye on each player's long-term development. I will encourage open communication and make it a priority to build strong relationships with my players, earning their trust and helping them feel confident in their roles. I am a teacher at heart – patient, detail-oriented, and passionate about helping young athletes understand not just what to do, but why it matters. This season there will be strong emphasis on character, teaching players how to handle adversity, work through challenges, and support one another both in games and in the locker room.  

Expectations for the Season:

Show up ready to learn, work hard, and give your best effort every time you hit the ice.
Support your teammates, communicate openly, and always put the team first.
Take responsibility for your growth—both as a hockey player and as a person.
Represent Elgin Thames Minor Hockey with pride, respect, and sportsmanship.
Most importantly, have fun, enjoy the journey, and embrace every opportunity to improve.  

I am committed to helping every player on the U13A team grow their skills, strengthen their character, and walk away from the season with lasting memories and a deeper love for the game.

Go '3's!!!×

Jamie Harwood

Hockey has been a passion of mine from my minor hockey days to my Junior C and Senior A years. I’ve not only enjoyed playing the game but have also valued the many opportunities I’ve had to coach. I have over 12 years’ experience coaching a variety of minor hockey teams ranging from Timbits to Junior C and have been General Manager of the Aylmer Spitfires Junior C team since the 2022-23 season.  

My goal is to ensure both team and individual player growth throughout the season and I expect players to make the most of their time on the ice to achieve this. I believe effort and dedication are essential for player development and building a successful team. I look forward to helping players develop into well-rounded athletes and aim to instill values such as sportsmanship and respect.×

Derek Stead

I love the game of hockey. I have been playing hockey since I was a young boy, and I have over 20 years of head coaching experience. As a coach, I am continually trying to grow and learn new ways to guide my players in the development of their skills, while promoting a positive and engaging environment.  

Two of my core values are commitment and teamwork. I expect players to show up prepared, ready to give their best effort, and be great teammates and people on and off the ice.     

I am excited to be working with the 2012 age group, and I am looking forward to a great inaugural season with the Elgin Thames 73s! ×

Wade Fitzgerald

Wade is excited to join the 2025/2026 inaugural season with Elgin Thames Minor Hockey Association. Wade brings over 35 years of hockey experience to the U15 team this year, playing competitive minor hockey in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia at various levels.

Wade has coached with the Aylmer Flames, East Elgin Attack, Dorchester Dragons and St Thomas Panthers. He also hosts a not-for-profit hockey development called "Caper Hockey" in the summer.

Wade loves being at the rink helping players and his kids develop their individual and team skills through high performance on ice activities and drills. Understanding the challenges at every level of hockey his philosophy is to coach with high expectations while instilling teamwork and fostering a love for the game.×

Brendan O'Brien

Growing up in St. Thomas, hockey was a huge part of my life from an early age. My playing career took me through various levels of competitive hockey, and I was fortunate to experience the game at a high level. At 15, I was one of the few undrafted players to make it to the final camp for the IIHF U17 World Hockey Challenge. The following year, I played a handful of games with the St. Thomas Jr. B Stars before spending the remainder of the season with the Jr. D Belmont Bombers. I went on to play two more seasons of junior hockey with the Jr. C Aylmer Spitfires, gaining valuable experience and insight into the game.  

My coaching journey began a few years ago, and I’ve enjoyed the transition from player to mentor. Last season, I worked with the U13 BB East Elgin Express as a skills coach, helping players refine their abilities and develop their confidence on the ice. The year prior, I served as the Head Coach of the U13 Aylmer Flames LL team, and before that, I was an assistant coach for the U11 Aylmer Flames LL. Coaching at different levels has given me a strong understanding of player development and the importance of fostering a positive team culture.  

My coaching philosophy is built on hard work, accountability, and continuous improvement. I believe that success in hockey—and in life—comes from putting in the effort every day, embracing challenges, and pushing yourself beyond your limits. My goal as a coach is to help players maximize their potential while instilling a strong work ethic, teamwork, and a love for the game. I’m excited to be leading the Elgin Thames 73s this season and look forward to working with our players to build a competitive, hardworking team.×

Jeff Doherty

I am excited to have been selected as the U16A coach for the Elgin Thames 73s inaugural season. I have coached within the London Junior Knights organization and the Dorchester Minor Hockey Association in varying capacities and age groups since 2005. I am a D1 – Certified Coach and have been fortunate to be part of two groups that have won their respective OMHA championship.  

My philosophy on hockey is to maximize all players’ skill development, hockey IQ and to encourage teamwork in a positive and competitive environment.  Trust, respect, preparation (on and off the ice) and overall work ethic will make up the foundation of the team. Team building will also be a priority with three centre’s coming together as one this year.  

Looking forward to the upcoming 2025-26 season!×