2023 - 2024 STAFF ANNOUNCEMENTS
U15 AAA
Head Coach: Kelly Chesla
Returning for another season behind the U15AAA Northstar bench is Kelly Chesla. Kelly is very detailed, holds a high standard, and creates a culture that we are seeking within CNHA. Kelly has multi-year experience as a U15AAA Head Coach where he was named the AEHL (AMBHL) Coach of the Year in 2019. He also coached U16AAA and U15AA and U18AAA as an assistant. He has scouted in the NHL for the New York Islanders, was a video coach/coordinator in the NHL for the Calgary Flames and Video Coach for the Calgary Hitmen. Kelly also has previous work experience for Hockey Canada in a development role.
Assistant Coach: Braely Torris
Braely will be entering with 5th year in the AEHL coaching AAA hockey. He comes from a goaltending background where he played NCAA and Pro Hockey allowing him to see the game from a unique perspective and provide assistance to the team’s defensive skillset and tactics required to play as a connected unit. Braely also understands the value of being a great teammate and values the opportunity to teach young athletes how to be just that.
Assistant Coach: Zack Finlay
Zack started coaching in 2016 as an assistant coach at the U15 AA level. From 2016-2018 he moved on to the U18 AA level and progressed to being a head coach at the U15 AA level from 2018-2020. Before joining the Northstars in 2022/23, Zack led his U16AA team to a very successful season as they finished the season off as the city champions. Zack has built a strong and positive player growth and development program. Most recently he worked with CNHA as the Head Coach for U15AA Gold as well as a Team Alberta Peewee Prospect Assistant Coach. He is ready to take the next step in his coaching career and get behind a AAA bench.
Goalie Coach: Theo Zubot
Along with the Northstars, Theo is currently the goaltending coach for the Calgary Hitmen (WHL), and Red Deer Queens (ACAC). Coaching for the last 10 years, Theo has experience coaching elite levels of minor hockey, junior, pro and Canadian National level goaltenders. Theo’s experience, passion and energy has allowed him to continuously develop high end goaltenders and he looks forward to continuing with the Northstars organization.