UPCOMING EVENTS APRIL 18 & May 23 10:30am-1pm Learn to skate / Adult Sled June 21
UPCOMING EVENTS APRIL 18 & May 23 10:30am-1pm Learn to skate / Adult Sled June 21
Hockey has been part of my life since I was four years old, teaching me discipline, teamwork, and leadership both on and off the ice. Hockey Mentors for Special Players began as my Eagle Scout project—originally planned as an in-person hockey experience for individuals with special needs.
When COVID made that event impossible, I pivoted. With support from the Motor City Veterans Hockey team, I created a hockey parody video and donated the proceeds to Special Olympics Michigan, while committing to bring the original event to life when it was safe.
In 2022, that promise became reality with the first Hockey Mentors skate. The response from families was immediate and overwhelming, leading to continued events and the formation of Hockey Mentors as an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Today, the program includes a large annual event and grant-supported monthly skates held from November through May.
I am currently a junior at Lawrence Technological University studying Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering Technology and am also working toward my private pilot license. Leading Hockey Mentors continues to shape how I approach leadership, problem-solving, and service.
Contact: hockeymentors@gmail.com

Hockey Mentors- How Not to play Hockey parody
Hockey Mentors is a proud member of the Troy Chamber of Commerce, strengthening our connection with local businesses and community leaders.
In partnership with Motor City Veterans Hockey (MCVH), Hockey Mentors is helping create a pathway for veterans and adaptive athletes to learn, grow, and transition into competitive hockey programs.
Scott Hartsell serves as Treasurer for Hockey Mentors, overseeing financial stewardship, budgeting, and accountability. He supports responsible use of funds to ensure resources are directed toward programming, equipment, and participant needs. Scott is committed to transparency and long-term sustainability in support of the organization’s mission and growth.

Gail Lucas oversees the administrative and operational backbone of Hockey Mentors, supporting program logistics, communications, registration, and community outreach. She works behind the scenes to ensure events run smoothly and that families, volunteers, and partners have clear information and support. Gail has been deeply involved in the organization’s growth and sustainability, helping translate vision into execution while keeping the focus on the athletes and families served.

Ken Murphy holds a PhD in technology and has been a longtime supporter of Wyatt and Hockey Mentors across all of Wyatt’s projects. He serves as the organization’s go-to resource for computer systems, technology guidance, and practical problem-solving. Ken continues to mentor Wyatt on academics and long-term planning, offering steady advice grounded in both professional expertise and years of personal support.

Cindy Stewart has been a longtime friend, advocate, and supporter of Hockey Mentors since its earliest days. As Troy’s former Community Affairs Director, she played a key role in helping raise awareness of the program through media coverage, community connections, and award nominations that helped establish its credibility and reach. Cindy remains a trusted supporter of Hockey Mentors and a respected leader in the Troy nonprofit community, with decades of service dedicated to strengthening local organizations and civic engagement.

Safety Officer & Community Outreach
Tessa Lucas serves as the Safety Officer and Community Outreach lead for Hockey Mentors for Special Players. She plays a key role in ensuring participant safety during events while also building relationships throughout the community to expand awareness and support for the program.
Tessa works directly with local businesses and organizations to develop partnerships, sponsorships, and silent auction donations that help sustain Hockey Mentors’ mission of providing adaptive skating and hockey opportunities for individuals with special needs.
She is a paramedic with the Rochester Fire Department and an American Heart Association CPR Instructor Coordinator. Tessa holds a Bachelor of Science from OU and is currently a graduate student preparing to apply to medical school, with the goal of becoming an emergency medicine physician.

Michael Perron is the owner of Michael Perron Photography and the official photographer for Hockey Mentors events. With a passion for capturing genuine moments, Michael specializes in documenting the energy, joy, and connection that make each Hockey Mentors skate so meaningful.
Through his lens, Michael focuses on the real stories happening on the ice — participants gaining confidence, mentors offering support, and families sharing unforgettable experiences together. His photography helps preserve these moments and allows the Hockey Mentors community to share its impact with supporters, volunteers, and sponsors.
Michael generously donates his time and talent to Hockey Mentors, helping showcase the mission and the incredible athletes who take part in the program. Michael Perron Imaging

Josh Deneau brings both experience and heart to the ice as a coach with Hockey Mentors sled hockey program for veterans . A Tier 1 player with Metro Detroit Sled Hockey, Josh’s connection to the sport started early—his aunt and uncle founded the adult sled hockey program in Fraser, and by age six, he was already helping the team however he could, from carrying equipment to supporting players.
At 14, Josh began playing sled hockey himself when the team needed more players, and he’s been dedicated to the sport ever since. A U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Josh combines his service-driven mindset with a passion for giving back. As the equipment manager for Metro Detroit Sled Hockey, he ensures every player has what they need to succeed on the ice.

Come for a free afternoon of fun, laughter and ice skating/hockey. Saturday, April 18th, 2026 at the Buffalo Wild Wings Arena, 1819 E. Big Beaver, Troy, MI 48083