Our Philosophy
At First Line Hockey, we embrace a traditional, blue-collar work ethic that prioritizes grit, determination, and accountability. Over time, we’ve observed a troubling shift in player development and coaching—marked by rising entitlement, diminished commitment, and subpar training standards. We are committed to reversing this trend.
Our mission is twofold: to deliver the most advanced hockey training available and to restore the culture of youth sports to one centered on teamwork, earning success through effort, and maintaining a no-nonsense attitude. As coaches and players ourselves, we set the bar high for professionalism, work ethic, intensity, accountability, commitment, and leadership. We expect nothing less from our players.
At FLH, we believe that success is earned—not given—and we are dedicated to fostering a mindset that values hard work and resilience both on and off the ice.
Meet the Coaches
Michael Cappiello
aka "Cappie"
Coach Cappie is a Level 4 certified hockey coach with over 20 years of coaching experience. Known for his commitment to player development and his ability to inspire athletes to reach their full potential, Coach Cappie is respected within the hockey community as a mentor and role model. His talent lies in guiding his players not only in hockey skills but also in character development, emphasizing the importance of integrity, sportsmanship, and perseverance. Under Coach Cappie's guidance, players not only excel in the game but also grow as individuals, embodying the values of teamwork, discipline, and resilience that are the hallmarks of a true student athlete.
Brock Hoffman
Coach Brock is a highly skilled hockey specialist with extensive experience at the highest levels of the sport. He excels in teaching a wide range of on-ice skills, from fundamental techniques to advanced maneuvers, ensuring players develop the precision and finesse needed to excel in the game. With a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed on the ice, Coach Brock is dedicated to helping athletes refine their skills and reach their full potential.
Ben Venerdi
aka "Sparky"
A former NCAA two-sport athlete, Ben "Sparky" Venerdi brings a unique edge to hockey development with his background in collegiate football and all-conference sprinting. Specializing in off-ice strength and conditioning, he designs programs that build power, speed, and resilience for high-level play. His multi-sport expertise allows him to craft elite training regimens that translate directly to on-ice success, helping athletes dominate through mental toughness and physical excellence. At First Line Hockey, Coach Sparky empowers players to excel both on and off the ice by fostering confidence, discipline, and peak performance.