Dan Mackin - Head Coach 2016BY

Dan Mackin’s lifelong connection to hockey runs deep, stemming from his family's rich history in the sport. His father, Mike Mackin, was instrumental in coaching at Duquesne University and played a key role in the founding of SHAHA, shaping Dan’s passion for the game from an early age.

Dan’s playing career began in the SHAHA program, where he competed from Mite through Midget before continuing his hockey journey at Bethel Park High School. There, he won a Pennsylvania State Championship in 2000 and served as team captain in both 2001 and 2002. Following his high school career, Dan played Junior A hockey in Toledo, OH, for the 2003 and 2004 seasons, gaining valuable experience at a highly competitive level.

Transitioning into coaching, Dan returned to his alma mater as an Assistant Coach for Bethel Park High School in 2004 and 2005, helping guide the team to another State Championship in 2005. In 2021, he brought his expertise to SHAHA, where he has been coaching Mites ever since, focusing on the development of young players and instilling in them a love for the game. As a USA Hockey Level 4 Certified Coach, Dan brings a strong knowledge of the sport and a dedication to teaching fundamental skills to the next generation of players.

Off the ice, Dan resides in Washington, PA, with his wife, Heather, and their two children, Madalynn (14) and Brantley (9). He continues to stay involved in the game as an active player in an adult league, further demonstrating his lifelong commitment to hockey.

With his deep-rooted history in the sport, extensive playing and coaching experience, and passion for player development, Dan Mackin is a key contributor to the SHAHA Mites Program, helping to build a strong foundation for the future of the organization.

Jason Zivkovic – Co-Head Coach, 2015BY Team

Jason Zivkovic brings a rich tapestry of hockey experience to his role as Co-Head Coach of the 2015BY Team, having navigated the sport from competitive playing to dedicated coaching. His journey included high school hockey, playing for Bethel Park Varsity from 1990 to 1994, before moving on to play at the AAA level for the Mt. Lebanon Hornets. Jason's prowess on the ice led him to the Cleveland Barons Jr A team (NAHL) for the 1994-95 season, culminating in a significant collegiate hockey career at Penn State from 1995 to 1999.

Transitioning to coaching, Jason has been an integral part of SHAHA since 2017, contributing to the development of young athletes across the Mites, Squirts, and Peewee divisions. His coaching acumen extended to the Pittsburgh Pens Elite, where he served as an assistant coach for the girls 10u and 12u teams from 2019 to 2023, further demonstrating his versatility and commitment to fostering young talent. In the 2023-24 season, he also took on a role as an assistant coach with the Steel City Selects girls 14u team, showcasing his expertise in guiding female athletes in the sport.

A USA Hockey Level 4 certified coach, Jason's coaching philosophy is informed by his comprehensive playing career and his subsequent experiences behind the bench. His approach is characterized by a focus on development, teamwork, and a passion for the game, all of which are crucial in shaping young players' careers.

Off the ice, Jason resides in Bethel Park with his wife Lisa and their two children, Allie (2010 - Steel City Selects) and Tyler (2015 SHAHA red mites), highlighting a family deeply embedded in the hockey community. As Head Coach of the 2015BY Team, Jason Zivkovic is poised to leverage his vast experience and personal commitment to hockey to inspire and lead his team to success.

Tim O'Brien – Co-Head Coach, 2015BY Team

Tim O’Brien, a Bethel Park native, serves as the Co-Head Coach for the 2015BY Team, bringing with him a deep-rooted passion for hockey that has been cultivated in the South Hills, where he resides with his wife and three children. His hockey path was charted through his amateur days with the Pittsburgh Hornets and his high school career at Bethel Park, which laid the foundation for his move to collegiate hockey at Penn State.

O’Brien’s playing career was highlighted by a Pennsylvania High School Hockey State Championship in 2005, followed by a stint with the NAHL Youngstown Phantoms in 2006. At Penn State, he continued to develop his on-ice expertise from 2007 to 2011.

After his collegiate career, Tim transitioned into coaching, bringing his experience and knowledge to the Bethel Park Varsity team as an Assistant Coach from 2011 to 2016. His coaching tenure boasts significant achievements, including a Penguin Cup win in 2012 and contributing to a U.S.A. Hockey National Championship in 2014, both as an assistant coach.

More recently, Tim has been leading the future of hockey through SHAHA, serving as the Blue Mite Head Coach in the 2021/2022 season, the White Head Mite Coach in 2022/2023, and the Red Head Coach for the 2023/2024 season. His continuous involvement at various levels of the game demonstrates his adaptability and dedication to fostering young talent.

As a Co-Head Coach for the 2015BY Team, Tim O’Brien brings his winning pedigree and a wealth of experience to the bench, ready to guide and inspire the young athletes in their hockey pursuits and personal growth within the sport.

Dave Andros - Head Coach, 2014BY Team

Dave Andros is at the forefront as the Head Coach of the 2014BY Team, bringing a high caliber of hockey proficiency and leadership to the role. A native of the Pittsburgh area, Dave's hockey journey is marked by his time at the Army's NCAA Division I hockey program, where his dedication and skill earned him four varsity letters. In his senior year, he achieved team MVP status and was honored with the ECAC Merit Award for his performance on the ice.

Before his collegiate success, Dave was a prominent player with the Pittsburgh Hornets, now known as Pittsburgh Penguins Elite, and represented Team Mid-Am at USA Hockey's Select Festivals. He further sharpened his competitive edge playing in the esteemed New England Prep School Hockey league, known for its high level of play.

Holding a USA Hockey Level 4 coaching certification, Dave has an extensive coaching background that includes experience at the NCAA Division I level down to foundational learn-to-play programs. His extensive network within the hockey community spans collegiate, prep school, and junior levels, ensuring that he remains at the forefront of hockey's evolving tactics and philosophies.

With his experience as a player and coach at the DI collegiate level, coupled with his connections to elite coaches across various tiers of the sport, Dave Andros is exceptionally well-equipped to guide the 2014BY team. His knowledge, experience, and ongoing engagement with the sport are pivotal assets that will undoubtedly benefit the team and contribute to their development and success on the ice.

Johnny Dingle - Head Coach, 2013BY Team

Johnny Dingle is at the helm as the Head Coach of the 2013BY Team, backed by an impressive array of experiences both as a player and coach. His playing career includes an esteemed tenure with The Ohio State University Men’s Ice Hockey Team (NCAA D1) from 2004 to 2008, where he competed at the highest collegiate level. Prior to that, Johnny demonstrated his prowess on the ice with the Tri-City Storm (USHL) during the 2003-2004 season and with the Pittsburgh Forge (NAHL) in 2002-2003. His foundational skills were built with Team Ohio Midget AAA and through a solid high school career at Shaker Heights High School Varsity from 1998 to 2002.

In the realm of coaching, Johnny has been a guiding force within SHAHA from 2019 to 2024, sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm for the game. He served as an Assistant Hockey Coach for Seneca Valley in the PIHL from 2008 to 2011, where he began to translate his on-ice experience into coaching acumen. Additionally, he enhanced his specialization in player development as the Power Skating Coordinator at the Cleveland Skating Club from 2011 to 2019. Johnny holds a USA Hockey Level 4 certification, underscoring his dedication and expertise in coaching.

On a personal note, Johnny is a proud resident of Bethel Park and a father to twin boys who play in the 2013 BY division and a daughter in the 2017 BY division, reflecting his deep personal connection to the sport and to nurturing young talent.

As Head Coach of the 2013BY Team, Johnny Dingle brings a wealth of knowledge, a history of competitive success, and a passion for teaching the game, making him an inspiring leader for the young athletes under his guidance.

Walter Keller - Head Coach, 2012BY Team

Walter Keller returns as Head Coach for the 2012BY Team with a wealth of experience both on the ice and behind the bench. His playing career is notable for its breadth and depth, beginning with A & AA levels in the PAHL and advancing to AAA with the Pittsburgh Amateur Penguins. Walter's dedication and skill in hockey were evident early on, playing for Bethel Park High School during his freshman and sophomore years before moving on to the competitive arena of New England Prep School Hockey at Kimball Union Academy in Meriden, New Hampshire, for his junior and senior years. His passion for the game carried him to Union College in Schenectady, NY, where he continued to excel in college hockey.

Transitioning from player to coach, Walter has amassed over a decade of coaching experience across various levels of youth hockey in Pittsburgh, including Mite, Squirt, Peewee, Bantam, and Midget, in A, AA, and AAA divisions. His coaching journey includes significant roles such as the Head Coach at Clearfield High School in Utah for two years and an Assistant Coach at Bethel Park High School. Walter is also a Level 4 USA Hockey Certified Coach, underscoring his comprehensive understanding of the game and his commitment to developing young talent.

His experience at various competitive levels of hockey provides him with a unique perspective that he brings to his coaching philosophy, aiming to foster not only skilled players but also individuals who exhibit sportsmanship, dedication, and a love for the game.

Joe Thomas - Head Coach, 2011BY Team

Head Coach Joe Thomas brings a wealth of local hockey experience to the 2011BY Team, having developed his skills in the Pittsburgh area from an early age. His formative years were spent with the Arctic Foxes organization, where he progressed through the ranks from mite to midget, demonstrating his growth and dedication to the game. Additionally, he showcased his abilities with the Bishop Canevin Crusaders, where he played from middle school all the way to the Varsity level.

Transitioning from player to coach, Joe began his coaching career within the PIHL, contributing to the Bishop Canevin Crusaders' program both as an assistant and head coach at the middle school level, and as an assistant coach at the varsity level. With a USA Hockey Level 4 certification, he has a proven track record over ten seasons of coaching in both the PIHL and PAHL. His experience includes five seasons as a head coach in the PAHL, particularly at the 14U and 16U levels where he has been instrumental in player development.

Most recently, Coach Thomas led the South Pittsburgh Rebellion's 2006 BY team for three consecutive seasons, a testament to his ability to build and maintain a competitive and cohesive team unit. As he steps into the role of Head Coach for the 2011BY Team, his extensive coaching background and intimate knowledge of the local hockey scene make him ideally suited to guide the team in their athletic and competitive endeavors.

DJ Zeh - Assistant Coach, 2011BY Team

Assistant Coach DJ Zeh comes to the 2011BY Team with a solid background as both a player and a coach, making him a valuable addition to the coaching staff. His playing career took him through a variety of competitive environments, starting with the Southpointe Rink Rats and advancing through the Pittsburgh Predators AA program. DJ further showcased his skills at the high school level with Bishop Canevin Varsity, before moving on to collegiate hockey with the University of Pittsburgh's ACHA Division 1 team.

Transitioning into coaching, DJ Zeh has accumulated nine seasons of coaching experience, spanning the PIHL and PAHL, where he has contributed to the development of middle school and varsity teams, as well as teams at the 14U and 16U levels. His recent coaching tenure includes serving as an assistant coach for the South Pittsburgh Rebellion's 06BY team for three consecutive seasons, where his expertise and approach to coaching have positively impacted young athletes.

Coach Zeh's comprehensive understanding of the game, derived from his experiences across various levels of play, equips him with the insights and strategies needed to guide and develop the 2011BY Team. His commitment to fostering a competitive and supportive environment will be instrumental in helping the team achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

BIO COMING SOON

Ray Conway - Head Coach

Ray Conway, esteemed for his dynamic coaching career and dedication to developing young athletes, serves as the Assistant Coach of the 15O AAA Team. His return to SHAHA has been impactful, further highlighted by his leadership of the SHAHA skills team over the last two years. This role underscores Ray's commitment to enhancing player abilities and his innovative approach to coaching.

Having spent 16 years at the helm of Pittsburgh Penguins Elite teams, Ray's coaching expertise is both broad and deep. His tenure with Pens Elite was characterized by an emphasis on skating proficiency and hockey acumen, positioning him as a pivotal figure in youth hockey development. Beyond his head coaching responsibilities, Ray's dedication to conducting skating and skills sessions for over a decade has made him a key asset in player development.

Ray's connection to the local hockey community is further strengthened by his personal roots; as a teacher and lifelong resident of the South Hills, he brings an educational approach to coaching, blending discipline, learning, and athletic growth. His familiarity with the South Hills community enhances his ability to build strong relationships with players and their families, fostering a supportive and ambitious team environment.

In his current role with SHAHA, and specifically with the 15O AAA Team, Ray leverages his extensive experience and passion for the sport to inspire and educate young athletes. His leadership of the SHAHA skills team demonstrates his ongoing commitment to not only the 15O AAA Team but to the broader organization, ensuring that all players have the foundation they need to succeed both on and off the ice. Ray Conway's return to SHAHA and his multifaceted role within the organization highlight his invaluable contribution to nurturing the next generation of hockey talent.

Matt Inman - Head Coach, 16UAA Team

Matt Inman returns to the ice as the Head Coach of the 16UAA Team, backed by an impressive 35-year journey through the ranks of hockey. His career began as a youth playing Mite through Midget for the Cambria County (Johnstown Warriors) in the PAHL Program, where he captained five teams and led several to PAHL league championships. Matt's leadership skills were further recognized as he wore the captain's "C" throughout his hockey tenure.

In high school, Matt was a multi-level athlete, playing for the Greater Johnstown Trojans on the Freshman, Junior Varsity, and Varsity teams. His passion for the sport carried him into college, where he played for the University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown from 1999 to 2003 in the ACHA Division III College Hockey East. As a three-year captain at UPJ, he led his team to notable success, including a 2003 College Hockey East Championship and earning a spot on the 2003 College Hockey East All-Star team, underscoring his dedication and skill on the ice.

Shifting gears to coaching, Matt is a Level 4 USA Hockey Certified Coach, bringing his on-ice experience and leadership to his coaching philosophy. His recent roles have included serving as the Head Coach for Bishop Canevin Middle School during the 2022-2023 season and as an Assistant Coach for the two years prior. Additionally, Matt has been a volunteer skills coach for various PAHL teams, showing his commitment to developing young players’ skills and love for the game.

As a coach, Matt Inman is known for his ability to instill confidence and a strong work ethic in his players, promoting both individual and team success. His extensive playing and coaching background, filled with highlights and accomplishments, positions him as an exceptional mentor for the young athletes of the 16UAA Team.

Kenny Lehmann - Head Coach

Kenny Lehmann returns in the role of Head Coach for the 16UAAA Team with a history as both a player and a coach, deeply rooted in the local hockey community. His playing career was marked by significant achievements, including AAA hockey for SHAHA and playing varsity hockey for Bethel Park. Notably, Kenny was a vital contributor to the Bethel Park 2005 championship team, assisting on the game-winning goals in both the Penguin Cup and the Pennsylvania State Championship. His leadership qualities were further recognized as he served as captain of the 2007 Team Pittsburgh, the first and only local team to clinch the prestigious Chicago Showcase.

Kenny's coaching career is equally impressive now entering its 10^th year. As a USA Hockey Level 4 coach, his tenure includes leading a team to a State Championship game in 2012, securing a USA Hockey National Championship in 2014, and winning a Silver Sticks International Championship in 2022 as well as successful 2023-24 campaign. Beyond his competitive successes, Kenny has demonstrated a commitment to the community, assisting young adults in recovery programs and leading hockey skill sessions for skaters and goalies, showcasing his dedication to developing talent and character on and off the ice.

Married to Aubrey and a devoted father to their young daughter Falyn, Kenny embodies the values of family and hard work. In February 2020, he channeled his work ethic into entrepreneurship, founding Above & Beyond Landscape and Design, applying the same dedication and leadership he brings to the rink to his business endeavors.

As Head Coach of the 16U AAA Team, Kenny Lehman is set to bring his rich background, competitive spirit, and personal dedication to the forefront, guiding his team with experience, passion, and a deep understanding of the game's impact beyond the ice.

Tom Chiappetta - Assistant Coach

Tom Chiappetta brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his role as Assistant Coach for the 16U AAA Team, underpinned by a strong foundation in competitive hockey and a dedication to athlete development. A USA Hockey Level 4 certified coach, Tom has accumulated nine years of coaching experience, during which he has established a proven track record of fostering development and achieving success, particularly at the AAA and AA levels.

His journey in the sport began as a player, where he showcased his skills with both the Pittsburgh Hornets and Upper St. Clair High School. This diverse playing background has equipped Tom with a deep understanding of the game, from the grassroots to the competitive high school level, allowing him to connect with and inspire the young athletes he coaches.

Beyond the rink, Tom embodies the spirit of a multi-sport family man, actively involved in supporting his children's pursuits in soccer, lacrosse, and basketball. As a husband and father, he understands the importance of balance, teamwork, and dedication in all aspects of life, values he imparts to his players both on and off the ice.

In his role as Assistant Coach of the 16U AAA Team, Tom Chiappetta's expertise, coupled with his personal approach to coaching, positions him as a valuable asset to the team's development. His commitment to nurturing talent and building character in young athletes ensures that the 16U AAA Team is in capable hands, poised for growth and success under his guidance.

Lee Penascino - Coach, SHAHA Girls Hockey Program

Lee Penascino, with a lifelong passion for hockey that began at a young age, brings an extensive background in the sport to his dual roles within the SHAHA organization. As a coach for the SHAHA Girls Hockey Program and the Director of Development and Placements, Lee's deep-rooted experience in hockey and his commitment to the development of young athletes are invaluable assets to the community.

His playing journey, which included significant contributions to the Mt. Lebanon Hornets and collegiate competition with Mercyhurst College's ACHA Division 1 team from 1999 to 2003, provided Lee with a solid foundation in the sport. These experiences, combined with his early start in hockey, have equipped him with a broad understanding of player development and the pathways to success in the sport.

As a Level 4 USA Hockey Certified coach, Lee has demonstrated his commitment to coaching excellence through his roles with SHAHA, including three years as a head coach for coed teams and two years specifically focusing on the development of the 12u Girls team. His coaching philosophy emphasizes skill building, teamwork, and instilling a love for the game, all while fostering an environment where young athletes can thrive.

In his strategic role as the Director of Development and Placements, Lee works tirelessly to ensure that SHAHA athletes have the opportunities and resources they need to reach their potential. His efforts in this capacity focus on creating pathways for player advancement, overseeing developmental programs, and ensuring that SHAHA's young athletes are placed in environments where they can succeed and grow, both on and off the ice.

A lifelong Pittsburgh (South Hills) resident and a hockey parent to two daughters in the SHAHA program, Lee's personal and professional life is deeply intertwined with the local hockey community. His comprehensive approach to development, his extensive experience as a player and coach, and his leadership within SHAHA underscore his dedication to enhancing the sport for future generations. Lee Penascino's contributions to SHAHA and his vision for its athletes set a standard for excellence and community engagement in youth hockey.

Denis Kirstein - Coach, Girls Program

Denis Kirstein brings an extensive background in hockey, both on and off the ice, to his role as a coach with the Girls program. As a father of four daughters and a resident of Bethel Park, Denis is deeply rooted in the community and embodies the family values that are essential to youth sports.

A proud alumnus of SHAHA, Denis has given back to the program as an assistant coach for both the BY2014 team and the 12U Girls team, demonstrating his commitment to developing young talent across genders. His expertise is recognized with a USA Hockey Level 4 coaching certification, and he has dedicated the last five seasons to coaching within the SHAHA organization.

Denis's coaching experience is further highlighted by his previous roles as the head coach for Seneca Valley and Upper St. Clair Varsity hockey teams in the PIHL. However, his knowledge of the game is not just limited to coaching; Denis has enjoyed a distinguished playing career as well. He skated professionally with the Youngstown Steelhounds of the CHL and the Toledo Storm of the ECHL, and he competed at the NCAA Division I level with the Mercyhurst College Lakers, where he was a four-time Atlantic Hockey All-Academic Team honoree.

Before his professional and collegiate achievements, Denis was a standout player for the Pittsburgh Hornets and the Bethel Park Blackhawks, further cementing his local legacy, which was recognized with his induction into the 2010 Bethel Park Sports Hall of Fame.

Off the ice, Denis is just as committed to his community, serving as a volunteer for Big Brother/Big Sister, showcasing his dedication to mentorship and positive role modeling. With his comprehensive experience, family-focused approach, and passion for hockey, Denis Kirstein is an invaluable addition to the coaching staff of the Girls team.

Amanda Carlson - Coach, Girls Program

With over two decades of playing and coaching experience, Amanda has passionately committed to nurturing young athletes in the world of hockey. Since 2003, she has empowered players to reach their highest potential as both individuals and athletes. Amanda has embraced significant roles behind the bench, including head coach for girls' and co-ed teams in both Pennsylvania and Minnesota, and has previously guided youth teams across various age and skill groups, instilling a love for the game. With a bottom-up development philosophy and a Minnesota style, she has played a vital role in advancing girls' hockey in our area.

She is dedicated to the short and long-term development strategies that embody every SHAHA team.

Todd Schnirel - Coach, Girls Program