Executive Leadership

 Tessa Lucas has been involved with Hockey Mentors since its founding and plays a key leadership role in program safety, community outreach, volunteer coordination, and event planning. She helps oversee participant safety at events while also leading sponsorship outreach and silent auction fundraising efforts that directly support adaptive skating and hockey programs.

Tessa is a paramedic with the Rochester Fire Department and recently completed her master’s degree in biology. She is currently applying to medical school with the goal of becoming an emergency medicine physician.

Her background in emergency medicine, combined with her passion for community service, helps Hockey Mentors provide a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for participants and families of all abilities.

 Gail Lucas oversees the administrative and operational backbone of Hockey Mentors, supporting program logistics, registration, communications, and community outreach. She helps coordinate events, volunteers, and partnerships while ensuring families and participants receive a welcoming and organized experience. Gail has played a major role in the organization’s growth and sustainability since its earliest days.

 Scott Hartsell serves as Treasurer for Hockey Mentors, overseeing financial stewardship, budgeting, and accountability. He helps ensure donations and sponsorships are directed toward adaptive equipment, programming, and participant support while helping guide the organization’s long-term sustainability and growth. 

  Josh Deneau brings both experience and heart to the ice as a coach with Hockey Mentors sled hockey program for veterans . A Tier 1 Sled Hockey player, 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.

 Katarina “Kat” Irvine began skating at just 3 years old and developed a lifelong passion for figure skating that led to a successful competitive career spanning nearly a decade. A former Team USA synchronized skating member and national medalist, Kat represented both the Detroit Skating Club and Birmingham Skating Club while competing with Team Elan and the Birmingham United Figure Skating Team. She tested through Senior Moves, Gold Dance, and Novice Freeskate, and later coached as a USFSA Basic Skills Instructor. Today, Kat brings her experience, patience, and love of skating to Hockey Mentors’ adaptive skating programs, helping participants build confidence and enjoy the ice in a supportive environment. 

 Ken Murphy holds a PhD in technology and has been a longtime mentor and supporter of Wyatt and Hockey Mentors. He provides guidance in technology systems, problem-solving, and organizational development while continuing to support Wyatt’s academic and long-term professional growth. 

 Michael Perron is the owner of Michael Perron Photography and the official photographer for Hockey Mentors events. Through his photography, Michael captures the energy, joy, and meaningful moments shared on the ice, helping showcase the impact Hockey Mentors has on participants, families, volunteers, and the community.  Michael Perron Imaging 

 Cindy Stewart has been a longtime supporter and advocate for Hockey Mentors since its earliest days. As Troy’s former Community Affairs Director, she helped connect the organization with community partners, resources, and outreach opportunities that supported its growth and visibility throughout the region.