STAFF

JEFF HAMILTON

Co-Founder

Jeff Hamilton is a versatile individual who has dedicated his life to hockey and business for thirty years. He has significantly impacted both arenas with a distinguished career that spans the National Hockey League (NHL), Ivy League, Prep school, and private equity. As a Yale University and Avon Old Farms graduate, Coach Hamilton emphasizes inspiring young athletes to excel athletically and academically. After graduating from Yale as the school’s all-time leading scorer, Jeff enjoyed a lengthy professional career playing for many NHL clubs, including the Chicago Blackhawks, Toronto Maple Leafs, Carolina Hurricanes, and the New York Islanders.

Jeff’s experience fostering talent and development led him to transition seamlessly into coaching, with positions at College, Prep School, and Junior levels. His high-paced practices demonstrate his commitment to excellence, drawing upon techniques and drills acquired during his professional playing career in the NHL, AHL, and various European leagues. His extensive network of contacts across all levels of the hockey community demonstrates his commitment to fostering talent and development.

Jeff’s entrepreneurship and vision became evident when he took over the Connecticut Yankees program with his partner Bob Crawford, transforming it into something extraordinary. By partnering with the New York Rangers, he created the Connecticut Junior Rangers Hockey Club, ushering in a new era of excellence in youth hockey development. With a profound understanding of the game and an unwavering drive for success, Jeff Hamilton continues to shape the future of hockey and business, leaving an enduring legacy of excellence, mentorship, and innovation.

BOB CRAWFORD

Co-Founder

Bob Crawford is a towering figure in hockey, celebrated for his outstanding career as an NHL player and a highly respected coach. He was born and raised in the thriving hockey community of Long Island. Crawford’s journey to the pinnacle of the sport was marked by his innate talent and unwavering commitment to excellence. As a player, Crawford was known for his determination and skill. He proudly represented the Detroit Red Wings and the Colorado Rockies, showcasing his resilience and strategic prowess on the ice over several seasons.

Crawford’s transition from player to coach was a natural progression, as his passion for hockey burned brighter than ever. His coaching career spans decades, and he generously shared his knowledge and experience with players at all levels. He has nurtured young, aspiring talents and guided collegiate athletes towards success. His leadership and insights have indelibly impacted the sport’s evolution. Crawford’s coaching philosophy is a harmonious blend of technical expertise, teamwork, and personal growth. His remarkable ability to inspire and motivate players has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of hockey stars in the tri-state area. Bobby Crawford’s enduring legacy continues to flourish, a testament to his profound and lasting impact on the sport that holds a special place in his heart.

CHRISTINE LANG

Mental Health + Performance

Dr. Christine Lang received her Ph.D. and Master’s degree from Columbia University, with a concentration in health and behavior studies, and her undergraduate degree in psychology from Fordham University. She is a nationally board-certified and Licensed Behavior Analyst specializing in implementing positive behavior principles to bring about lasting, meaningful change.  Her current practice focus, through advanced graduate training at Boston College, involves mental health, performance, and student-athlete development.  

Through her private practice of behavior consultation and therapy, Dr. Lang and her clinicians work closely with individuals, families, schools, teams, and organizations to develop personalized solutions to address goals across a broad spectrum of repertoires. From education to sports, we utilize evidence-based approaches centering around the science of behavior and principles of positive coaching to bring about impactful growth and development.  Our process-driven approach strives to support and facilitate balance for those we collaborate with to achieve optimal performance.

LIZ EINIGER

Director of Education
Elizabeth has focused her career and her life around children and education, emphasizing the importance of a healthy body with a healthy mind.
Born and raised in Manhattan, Liz is a classically trained ballerina who became a Prima Ballerina at Interlochen in Michigan. Knowing the importance of education, she matriculated to the University of Pennsylvania, where she obtained both a master’s and a bachelor’s degree in three years. For over forty years, she has served as an alumni interviewer for College Admissions of UPenn, keeping her abreast of the changes in education over the years.
Working with children of all ages and all neurological capabilities,  she made a career creating a personalized approach driven by each individual to educate, tutor, mentor, and coach. Committed to every student’s social and academic development, she listens carefully to each child’s “inner voice” to better enable them to thrive and move forward successfully. Our “Coach 203” provides warmth, understanding, knowledge, and sensibility to our ever-growing dynamic student-athletes.
Her leadership provides mentorship of our educational goals so that kids will thrive in this competitive world as they move forward, being the best student-athletes they can be.

IVAN SKOBREV

Power Skating and Strength Director

Ivan is an accomplished former athlete and experienced Strength and Conditioning Coach. He was a World and European All-round Champion in Speed Skating and won Silver and Bronze Medals at the Vancouver Olympic Games. Ivan also holds multiple records for the Russian Federation. He has been recognized as an Honored Master of Sports and an Athlete-Instructor of the National Team of the Russian Federation.

After retiring as an athlete, Ivan transitioned into coaching and performance enhancement. During his time as a Strength and Conditioning Coach in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), he made significant contributions to the development and success of HC Dynamo Moscow. Ivan created customized exercise and aerobic plans for each team member, which played a pivotal role in consistently propelling players to advance to the KHL playoffs. He also trained Tomas Jurco and Michal Cajkovsky, guiding them to win a bronze medal in Korea.

Ivan’s academic foundation from UNECON – Saint Petersburg State University of Engineering and Economics complements his practical experience and visionary insight. His holistic approach, which encompasses dedication, mindfulness, and an exceptional work ethic, has proven instrumental in guiding athletes towards their highest potential and fostering a culture of excellence.

As a former record holder, medalist, and seasoned coach, Ivan’s expertise is invaluable to The 203 staff.

Mike Bonelli

Director of Advising

Mike Bonelli has over 40 years of experience in the sport of hockey. After a successful college playing career, he moved into coaching, skill assessment, and recruiting. He has effectively developed numerous hockey programs, including camps, clinics, and growth initiatives, in partnership with USA Hockey and NHL clubs. Throughout his career, Mike has been a coach at various levels, ranging from youth and high school to preparatory schools, colleges, and professional teams. His extensive experience covers player assessment, development, recruitment, and placement.

Mike has held the position of Head Coach at Plymouth State University and has founded programs such as the Snapple Express and the Western Junior Colonials. Additionally, he has coached at The Harvey School, Immaculate High School, Iona Prep School, NYU, and the Connecticut Whale, among others. He played a significant role in establishing the Westchester Skating Academy, Danbury Ice Arena, Montclair State University Ice Arena, and most recently, the Peconic Hockey Foundation’s Ed Westvall Arena.

Since 2012, Mike has been a USA Hockey NYSAHA player assessment team member and has served as the Coach in Chief for the NYSAHA East District for over 10 years. He is also a coaching ambassador for several organizations, including CoachThem, Helios, Sense Arena, GelSTX, and True Hockey.

With a proven track record, Mike has the expertise to identify strengths and weaknesses in a player’s skills and potential. He provides guidance to players and their families on improving their game. Drawing on his extensive experience in recruiting and player assessment, he assists players and their families in navigating the recruiting process, offering advice on interacting with coaches and staff about playing time, evaluating skill levels, and asking essential questions. This helps players advocate for their interests while understanding team dynamics.

ARLEN MARSHALL

Director

Arlen Marshall is a dedicated hockey coach who has significantly impacted the sport with his coaching career. In August 2020, he became Assistant Coach for Army West Point hockey, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise. Marshall’s coaching journey began at Manhattanville, his alma mater, where he played from 2006 to 2010 and became one of the few players to score 100 points. He returned to the Valiants as an assistant coach in 2010 and quickly moved to the head coaching position in 2012.

During his eight seasons with the Valiants, Marshall led the team to unprecedented success, winning over 100 games and securing seven conference tournament berths. His coaching career peaked during the 2018-19 season when Manhattanville won the UCHC Tournament Championship and was invited to the NCAA Division III Tournament after over a decade. The team reached the NCAA Quarterfinal Round, a significant achievement for the program. Marshall’s influence extended beyond the ice, as he helped his players achieve numerous accolades, including 35 all-conference selections, five Conference Players of the Year, five All-America selections, and two Academic All-Americans. Currently, as a member of the Yale University hockey staff, Arlen Marshall continues to shape the future of hockey by leveraging his profound knowledge of the game and his dedication to developing the next generation of athletes to ensure that his legacy endures.

R.A. Mobile

Sports Innovation and Athletic Development

R.A. Mobile is a dynamic leader with over thirty years of experience in elite hockey and eighteen years in business and manufacturing. He has a proven track record of delivering results, achieving long-term growth, and successfully leading teams through rapidly changing environments. Known for building lasting relationships, R.A. applies his strategic mindset to sports development as well.

Raised in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, R.A. developed his skills with Team Illinois before advancing to a notable junior hockey career in the competitive OHL and NAHL. He furthered his success at New England College, where he won the ECAC East Championship, competed in the NCAA Frozen Four, and served as captain of a nationally ranked team. These experiences sharpened his leadership skills, dedication, and work ethic—qualities he now instills in players as an elite coach. Since 2006, he has coached in Illinois, New York, and Connecticut, helping to shape athletes with the same focus and determination that define his own success

MIKE STANAWAY

Director

Coach Mike Stanaway is a seasoned and accomplished leader with an impressive track record. He spent many years leading the New York Aviators to success and is now looking forward to taking on new challenges with the Connecticut Junior Rangers Elite Hockey Club

In his recent role with the New York Aviators, Coach Stanaway was crucial in securing the USPHL Premier Regular Season Title last season. His coaching skills and incredible recruiting prowess helped the team achieve an impressive record of 38 wins, five losses, and one tie. As a result, they went on to compete in the highly competitive USPHL National Championship. Coach Stanaway has led his teams to four league titles, including the coveted USPHL Championship. This demonstrates his ability to inspire and guide his players to success in high-stakes situations. With over 450 victories, he has established himself as a master strategist and mentor on the ice.

In addition to his leadership skills, Coach Stanaway is known for his player development expertise. He has helped numerous players advance to the NCAA hockey stage, including three NCAA All-Americans. His guidance has assisted aspiring athletes in transitioning smoothly to the collegiate level. He has been recognized for his talent in nurturing talent and refining skills to their fullest potential.

JIM HENKEL

Director

Jim Henkel is a New Jersey native with a lifelong dedication and passion for hockey. He has achieved remarkable success in his career, including winning the NJ State Championship three times with his team at Christian Brothers Academy. Jim graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) with a degree in Business Management and continued to excel in hockey throughout his college years. After completing his studies, he had an impressive 8-year professional career competing in the AHL and ECHL.

In 2014, Jim transitioned into coaching and has been a valuable CT Jr Rangers coaching staff member. He has contributed to the development of players at all levels. He holds a Level IV coaching card from USA Hockey and a Level III USA Hockey Officials Certification. Jim’s commitment to the growth and development of the sport is evident in his coaching credentials.

Outside of hockey, Jim’s family is his greatest source of joy. He lives in Branford, Connecticut, with his wife and two daughters, who share his passion for the sport.

CHERI ELEAZER

Development Specialist

Cheri is a results-oriented senior-level professional passionate about leading organizations and implementing programs that enhance operational efficiency. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Hartford and a Sports Industry Essentials certification from Columbia University, providing a solid foundation in business and marketing.

Currently, Cheri serves as the assistant athletic director and Head Women’s Basketball Coach at SUNY Maritime College, where she oversees all game-day operations and has successfully developed a structured basketball program from the ground up. Her responsibilities include ensuring NCAA compliance, managing recruitment, and designing training programs focused on maximizing athlete performance.

With extensive coaching experience at various levels, Cheri has directed travel basketball teams and held positions within NCAA programs. Additionally, she has served as the Wellness and Sports Director at the YMCA in Stamford, CT, where she significantly enhanced community engagement and increased participation in sports and fitness initiatives.

As the founder of a private fitness club, Cheri has created education-based fitness programs to promote long-term health and wellness in clients of all ages. Her commitment to fostering environments supporting individual and team growth reflects her dedication to athlete development and community enrichment.

KATE PELLEGRINO

Development Specialist

Kate Pellegrino is an experienced health and fitness specialist with a strong exercise science and nutrition background. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a minor in Community Health from Hofstra University and a Master of Science in Exercise Science and Nutrition from Sacred Heart University.

With a diverse career in the fitness industry, Kate has served as a Health Fitness Specialist at EXOS, where she designed and led engaging workouts for diverse clientele, fostering a motivating atmosphere to help clients achieve their fitness goals. She also worked as a Senior Coach and Facility Manager at Gold Coast Strength and Conditioning, where she managed facility operations and provided personalized coaching to enhance client performance.

Kate is the Head Coach for OLE Soccer, overseeing multiple teams and implementing training drills to improve athlete performance. Her coaching experience includes working with collegiate and professional soccer teams at Hammer Athletics, where she focused on technique and performance assessments.

A dedicated professional, Kate has received accolades for her athletic performance, including the Regis Achievement Award and the IMG Soccer Academy Coaches Award. Her passion for fitness and coaching drives her commitment to promoting healthy living and empowering individuals to reach their goals.

JIMMY IUCCI

Development Specialist

Jimmy Iucci has 20 years of playing experience at the travel, high school, junior, and professional levels. He is a USA Hockey Certified Level 4 coach with 10 years of coaching experience. Iucci has managed teams from Mite to Midget across Tier III, Tier II, and Tier I Youth Travel levels with the. During his tenure, he has been part of championship teams in the LIAHL and HVHL, regular-season champions, and participants in invitational weekends and international tournaments.

Currently, he is coaching juniors with the national champion Connecticut Junior Rangers. In the off-season, he runs training programs and battle camps designed for competitive athletes. These programs aim to challenge players on and off the ice with workouts specifically targeted for skill advancement.

Jimmy Iucci is dedicated to player development, specializing in footwork, shooting theory, skill enhancement, high-tempo game scenarios, and puck management. He has helped develop players who currently compete in AAA, prep school, Tier II and III junior leagues, USHL, and NCAA college hockey through his training approach.

BOBBY PAULS

Strength and Conditioning Specialist

Bobby has been dedicated to training professional, collegiate, and amateur athletes for over 10 years. He is a native of Harrison, NY, and pursued his passion for sports at New England College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology while actively playing ice hockey and lacrosse. Bobby’s athletic journey continued beyond college as he played for the Danbury Mad-Hatters in the Eastern Professional Hockey League, experiencing the intensity and competition of professional sports firsthand.

After concluding his playing career, Bobby transitioned into coaching, embracing his desire to share his knowledge and passion for the game with the next generation of athletes. As a USA Hockey Level 4 Certified coach, he has worked with players of all ages, from Mites to Juniors, instilling essential skills and a strong understanding of the game. His coaching approach emphasizes not only technical development but also the importance of teamwork, sportsmanship, and mental resilience.

Bobby specializes in hockey and lacrosse skill training at 203, offering tailored sessions that enhance athletes’ performance in their respective sports. His expertise extends to power skating, where he helps athletes develop optimal skating techniques and efficiency on the ice. Additionally, Bobby is well-versed in strength and conditioning, designating individualized programs that enhance overall athletic capabilities while incorporating key components of plyometric training to improve explosiveness and agility.

Bobby’s commitment to his athletes goes beyond physical training; he prioritizes fostering a positive and motivating environment that encourages growth, dedication, and passion for the sport. His experience as a player and coach provides him with a unique perspective on the challenges athletes face, allowing him to guide them effectively on their journey toward excellence.

With a firm belief in the potential of every athlete he trains, Bobby is dedicated to helping individuals unlock their full capabilities, making a lasting impact on their development in hockey and lacrosse. Whether on the ice or in the gym, Bobby remains committed to promoting athletic achievement and inspiring those he coaches to strive for greatness.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RISK AND AGREEMENT: I consent to my child's participation in the Summer Series. I understand that going away to camp involves some risks, including the possibility of damage to my child's property or serious injury to my child. I agree, on behalf of myself and my child, that I should assume all the risks concerning my child's participation in the Summer Series. Excellence in Hockey LLC and Sacred Heart University cannot provide refunds for cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of Excellence in Hockey LLC, including but not limited to labor disputes, governmental actions, pandemics, COVID-19 or other communicable diseases or illness, acts of God, including facility damage/closing complications or weather related rink/facility cancellations. While these events are highly unlikely to occur, in the event unforeseen circumstances do occur, we will issue credit vouchers prorated for the remainder of the affected program.

I agree that my child will follow relevant Summer Series directions, rules, and policies and obey directions. I acknowledge that the Summer Series has the right to remove my child from participation in the Camp if they are not complying with the rules and regulations of the Camp. Summer Series has a zero-tolerance policy concerning uncontrollable behavior, bullying, hazing, alcohol, tobacco, drugs, controlled substances, weapons of any kind, or any other activity that we deem illegal or not in conformance with Summer Series standards. No refunds will be given if a camper is expelled due to the above circumstances.

HEALTH AND SAFETY: I know of no health-related reasons or problems that prevent my child from participating in the Camp.

MEDICAL RELEASE: I grant medical personnel permission to provide medical care for conditions that may arise during participation at this camp. Summer Series and Excellence in Hockey LLC does not assume any responsibility nor provide any insurance for medical expenses incurred by your dependents due to any accident or sickness while participating in this Camp.

RELEASE OF LIABILITY: I agree to release Summer Series, Excellence in Hockey LLC, and Sacred Heart University, its trustees, officers, employees, volunteers, members, and representatives from any liabilities and claims whatsoever arising out of, or in connection with, my child's attendance and participation in the Camp, even those that the ordinary negligence of Summer Series may have caused.

MEDIA RELEASE: Summer Series, Excellence in Hockey LLC, and Sacred Heart University may make and use images, film, video, and audio recordings of my child and take and use quotes or statements from my child during the activity without compensation. I release all claims against Summer Series, Excellence in Hockey LLC, and Sacred Heart University concerning privacy, copyright ownership, and publication related to the use of the quotes, images, or recordings.

REFUND POLICY: After registration is complete and payment is received, there are no refunds due to limited availability for this Summer Series.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT: By reading and signing this legally binding document, I know I am voluntarily waiving the right to sue Summer Series, Excellence in Hockey LLC, and Sacred Heart University if my child is injured while participating in this Program. In case of my incapacity or death, this agreement binds my heirs, executors, administrators, and representatives.