SDIA Coaches

Coach Baxter, a San Diego native, has a deep-rooted history with hockey, evolving from the squirt house league at UTC to collegiate play at NCAA Div III University at Albany, NY. In his coaching role with the Oilers Hockey Club for 8 seasons, Coach Baxter focuses on developing bench depth, employing a custom-tailored approach that emphasizes player strengths/weaknesses, team systems, and fundamentals.

Ziga, a former goalie with a rich hockey background in Europe and Canada, brings extensive experience to SDIA. As a professional engineer, he guides young players, including his own son, contributing to both hockey and figure skating development at SDIA.

Jeff Glass, current goalie coach for the San Diego Gulls (AHL), brings NHL-level experience and a passion for goaltending. Mentoring players worldwide, he founded Jeff Glass Goaltending to help young goalies reach their potential in the San Diego area.

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Scott is dedicated to advancing players through fundamental skill development and fostering resilience and camaraderie in competitive hockey. With a background in junior hockey and collegiate experience at the University of Virginia, Scott brings a hard-working, physical approach to coaching. After a hiatus, inspired by his son's love for the game, Scott returned to share the invaluable lessons hockey has taught him with the next generation.

Greg joined SDIA this season as a High School coach, bringing a great love for hockey. Previously coaching for the San Diego Hawks, he began coaching in 2015 when his sons started playing at SDIA. Coach Greg, a level 4 USA hockey coach, has coached at SCAHA Squirt, Peewee, and Bantam levels. Currently, he serves as the Assistant Coach of the Jets JV High School team.

Growing up playing hockey at SDIA and LA Lions, Rebecca returned to SDIA to follow in her dad's coaching footsteps. As an assistant coach for the in-house bantams, her goal is to inspire more girls to embrace hockey and, eventually, coach an all-girls team.

Peewee A Coach Austin Miller, with 6 years of coaching and 38 years of hockey experience, brings a wealth of knowledge to SDIA. His extensive playing background includes various levels from junior leagues to the ECHL. Austin is passionate about improving players on and off the ice, emphasizing confidence, communication, and competitiveness.

Matt's hockey journey began in Chicago, leading to years of playing in various leagues across the country. After joining SDIA with his son, he embraced coaching and has been a valuable part of the Mites program since 2019. Currently, as the Head Coach of the Mites 6 team, Matt contributes to the growth and development of young players at SDIA.

With over 25 years of hockey experience, Coach Mike Langridge, a Southern California native, emphasizes family, effort, and dedication in coaching. Since joining SDIA three years ago, he coordinates the Mites league, coaches in-house and tournament teams, and led to a championship win at the California State Games in 2020.

Jeff Collins, driven by a deep passion for hockey, channels his energy into coaching to bring out the best in the young players. With almost 40 years of playing experience, he entered coaching in 2017, discovering the rewarding journey of guiding kids from beginners to seasoned players. Jeff's coaching style emphasizes connecting with the players, setting high expectations, and challenging them for continuous development.

Stephane Thibault, a dedicated coach, discovered his passion for hockey in Montreal's outdoor rinks. Transitioning from adult leagues to coaching, he has coached over fifteen teams (8U to 16U) with a focus on teaching basic skills in a fun and engaging manner.

Nathan, from a family of coaches and educators, joined ice hockey later in high school. After playing at Ithaca College, he moved to SoCal in 2000. With 20 years away from the game, Nathan returned to SDIA for pickup, men's league, and coaching with his 8-year-old son's teams. With a background in coaching and substitute teaching, Nathan looks forward to reconnecting with the ice at SDIA.

Dan Massey, a dedicated father of three kids at SDIA, found joy in assisting as an assistant coach. His rewarding experience involves watching the kids develop as hockey players and individuals. Dan feels honored to contribute to nurturing their love for the game, learning from top coaches, and building lasting friendships and memories.

Since 2010, Eric has coached at SDIA, progressing from mini mites to high school teams. Named San Diego Hockey Community Member of the Year in 2019-2020, he is a Level 4 coach in USA Hockey, leading a squirt house team and the Saturday Learn to Play class.

Dan Arel, an experienced coach with nearly 9 years at San Diego Ice Arena (SDIA), has led teams to tournament championships, International Silver Stick Finals, and success in SCAHA Finals. Recognized as the 2020 Coach of the Year by the San Diego Gulls Foundation, Dan contributes to player development through coaching and mentorship, aligning with the NHL Coaches Association's Mentorship Program.

Adam, with roots in roller hockey and SDSU ice hockey, now brings his positive attitude to player and team development as an SDIA Mites coach. Beyond hockey, he enjoys homebrewing and traveling with his family.

Originally from Fredericton, Canada, Dave Craft's hockey journey started on frozen ponds. Playing competitive youth hockey, he later pursued a PhD in Chemistry. Relocating to San Diego, Dave embraced coaching, leading teams to success with a philosophy of continuous improvement.

Corwin Nycholat, hailing from Calgary, Canada, brings over 40 years of hockey experience to his coaching role at San Diego Ice Arena (SDIA). With a background playing AA through Junior B in Calgary, Corwin creates a positive learning environment for players at SDIA, focusing on fundamental skills and game understanding. As a Level 3 USA Hockey coach, he emphasizes hard work, teamwork, and respect for the game. Currently serving as the Head Coach for the 2020-21 SDIA SCAHA 12U B/BB team, Corwin is dedicated to player development.

Dave Munsch, originally from Prior Lake, MN, began his hockey journey at age 3, playing on the lake in his backyard. After moving to San Diego at 12, he continued playing at SDIA, reaching the Midget AA level. His hockey career concluded at the University of Arizona.