CAHA Scottsdale Staff Announcement / Update

Kristy Aguirre Named President
_______________________________________

Mike DeAngelis Named Director of Hockey Operations and Program Advancement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Friday, April 8, 2022 

Scottsdale, Arizona – Building on the remarkable success achieved during the 2021-22 youth travel hockey season, the Coyotes Amateur Hockey Association – Scottsdale (CAHA Scottsdale), the association that manages and operates the Jr. Coyotes Hockey Club, is reorganizing its management team. Competing in the first season as the single Tier I Program in Arizona, resulted in a historical season for the club winning not one, but two, Tier I Elite League Championship Titles, a Rocky Mountain District Title, and advancing the 16U Tier I team to the Youth Tier I USA Hockey National Championship stage. In addition, the program had nine (9) players drafted to the WHL (Western Hockey League) from one team roster. The CAHA Scottsdale earned USA Hockey Model Program status, had program alumni committing to multiple college and junior teams, several players drafted to the USHL, twelve tournament titles from all over the country, and five AZYHL State Championship titles. These results provide unparalleled momentum and the opportunity to broaden and strengthen its leadership team.

Since its inception, CAHA Scottsdale has grown and thrived as a premier youth hockey option in the Valley. The combined commitment, loyalty and passion for the sport exhibited by leadership, the coaching staff, players, and their families has set the stage to enhance and advance the program operations for many years to come.

Kristy Aguirre joined the Arizona ice sports community in 2004 as a new hockey parent. She was introduced to the CAHA Scottsdale family in 2012 when her then 16-year-old son earned a roster spot on the program’s premier 16U Tier I team. Her first official role was as team manager where her contributions and dedication to the program got the attention of CAHA Scottsdale leadership. She continued in the role as she honed her management skills, learned program operations, and provided exceptional support which led to being hired by CAHA Scottsdale in 2014, with a promotion to Executive Director, just two seasons later. 

Kristy has been a member of the Arizona State Affiliate Board for many years and strives to make an impact where and when she can for the entire Arizona hockey community. Kristy is a proven leader who leads the pack with passion, productivity, and purpose. She has seen all sides of the youth hockey industry, which enables her to have a unique perspective few can offer which exhibits compassion, understanding, and experience. Kristy will continue to lead the organization now as President and will look to expand community and program resources that will strengthen and reinforce CAHA Scottsdale‘s mission statement, influence, and growth. “I am extremely excited and appreciate the opportunity to continue with such a strong and respected program,” said Aguirre. “There is much work to be done and I look forward to making more historic advancements together with our leadership team, coaches, players and families.”

Mike DeAngelis has been recognized as CAHA Scottsdale’s youth travel hockey founder since he joined the team in 2005 when the program was still defining its identity. He, alongside long time CAHA Scottsdale Youth Hockey Director, Scott Gruber, designed and developed the CAHA program from the ground up. He continued to invest and create program opportunities for many years seeing much success along the way. Mike has been instrumental in the development of countless Arizona youth hockey players investing his time and sharing his experience to make each individual player better, which in turn, makes the teams and program stronger.

Mike has been an extremely valuable asset to the Tier I program as a tenured, knowledgeable elite level coach. He has led numerous teams to success including 3-time entry into USA Hockey National Championships, Rocky Mountain District Championships, and numerous Arizona State Championships. His connections as liaison with the Tier I Elite League has elevated the exposure of our program and players. Mike’s commitment to excellence is contagious and inspires program members to emulate. In Mike’s new role as Director of Hockey Operations and Program Advancement, he will provide experienced insight, vision, and strategy to define our hockey program landscape. Through his existing network and relationships, he will help lead CAHA Scottsdale into the strongest future possible.

We know our players and families share our pride for recent accomplishments and the growing excitement for the upcoming season. The potential is limitless, and the experienced, knowledgeable, CAHA Scottsdale staff stands ready to make the future of CAHA Scottsdale the best ever! We look forward to you joining our community this next season!

Kristy Aguirre President
Mike DeAngelis Director Hockey Operations and Program Development
Marc Fritsche Tier Program Director
Kenny Corupe Youth Program Director
Mike Nepsa Goaltending Director
Brian Slugocki Skills Program Director
Scott Gruber Youth Development Program Director
Rhonda Alcaraz Program Coordinator