Rep Coaches, Rep Hockey (Erin-Hillsburgh Minor Hockey Association)

Jon Forbes

My hockey background: 
I grew up in the London area and played at the AAA, High School, and JR level.  Because of this, I feel that I have a good understanding of what it takes to compete at a high level.  I have learned a great deal from the coaches that helped me develop at every one of these levels as well as the players who I competed against.  These lessons have influenced my philosophy of the importance of developing both players and people and creating a culture of learning, respect, and fun.  When my body allows, I still love to get out and play the game I love.

My coaching history:
I am a Hockey Canada – Coach Development 1 Level Coach (working my way higher), and have coached in the Erin-Hillsburgh association since 2015.  I started as a CHIPS on-ice helper from 2015-2018 and then moved on to be an assistant coach for the Novice LL team in 2018-2019 and the Novice BB team for the 2019-2020 season.  Last season, 2020-2021, I had the pleasure of being named the head coach for the U-10 BB team. To go along with my experiences in Erin-Hillsburgh, I have over 15 years of experience coaching at the high school level and am a certified power skating instructor.  As the coach of the U-11 team for this season, I am so excited to continue with the development of the players on this team, some of whom I've had the opportunity to coach since they were CHIPS!

What I am most looking forward to accomplishing with my team this season:
Development is the primary goal for the team this season, helping each member of the team strive to become the best player and person that they can be.  A key is to have the players understand the importance of hard work, attention to detail, commitment, and a good attitude. This will be honed through experiences both on and off the ice. Following Hockey Canada's Player Development Pyramid I will look to develop individual technical skills as a base, along with individual and team tactics.  While skill development will be a major focus throughout the year, in addition, team play systems will also be introduced with the opportunity for all players on the team to learn and participate in the systems that are taught.  Overall, I want the players to want to come to the rink, see their friends, grow and get better. Every success will be celebrated.

What will you be looking for at tryouts:
For tryouts I am looking for players who are excited to be at the rink and are willing to work hard and get better.  Also, coachability, sportsmanship, and respect will be requirements.  Overall, players are encouraged to compete hard for a place on the team and the opportunity to represent their town! ×

Jeff Oakley

My hockey background:
I grew up playing hockey with the Hillsburgh Minor Hockey Association. Once Erin and Hillsburgh amalgamated, I began playing with the current EHMHA. After my minor hockey ended at Juvenile, I played a season with the Grand Valley Tornadoes in a senior hockey league. I then moved on to play in the Sunday night men’s league (which became the Friday night league) in Hillsburgh and played with the Cedar Valley Selects for close to 20 years. Once my son started in hockey I changed my focus from playing to helping him and many other new players learn and develop the necessary skills to play the great game of hockey. 

My coaching history:
I have been involved with the EHMHA as an on-ice helper for 4 years of CHIPS, and trainer/assistant coach for the past 5 years. 

What I am most looking forward to accomplishing with my team this season:
For me a successful season is one where each player develops and improves in all aspects from individual skills to team tactics and gain a better overall understanding of the game. 

What will you be looking for at tryouts:
Once tryouts begin, I will be looking for players that have the desire to learn and improve their game. Skating, agility, and shooting are all key components of the game that will be observed. I encourage all players that plan to attend tryouts to do some off ice training that will improve their cardio, strength, and flexibility. Shooting pucks in the basement or driveway is a great way to increase the power and accuracy of their shot for the upcoming season. I look forward to getting back on the ice and seeing all the smiling faces! ×