The goal of the Hockey Academy program is to provide each student-athlete an opportunity to pursue excellence, and to improve and develop the physical, mental and tactical demands of the game of hockey. Throughout the training, students will improve their time management, independence, and organizational skills. Students will participate in a variety of on and off ice training sessions. On-ice sessions include fine-tuning hockey fundamentals such as skating, puck-handling, checking, passing, and tactics. Off-ice sessions include team-building, cross-training, weight training, uni-hockey, floor hockey, mental training, character development and various field trips.
All of our programs have access to superior athletic instruction and a wide-range of cross-training and fitness opportunities.
Sport Academy schools charge a program fee that varies by school and by sport in order to offset the costs of things like equipment, field/rink rental, staffing of sport-specific coaches and trainers, as well as administration costs.
History
Edmonton Catholic Schools has been offering sport specific programming for students as a program of choice since 1997. The Sport Academy schools offer superior athletic instruction for those students whose educational experience would be enhanced with sport specific training. Academy students benefit from participation in these sports in terms of learning to be responsible, organized, and committed to an education that is both academic and athletic.
Shadow Days
Are you ready to take your hockey skills to the next level? A Shadow Day at one of our ECSD Hockey Academies is the perfect way to experience firsthand what makes our program exceptional.
What Are Shadow Days?
Shadow Days offer prospective students the chance to observe and participate in aspects of our Hockey Academies. From on-ice training to classroom visits, you’ll gain valuable insight into how we blend academics and athletics.
What to Expect
During your Shadow Day, you can expect to:
- Engage in on-ice training with our expert coaches.
- Explore our dynamic academic environment and see how we support student success.
- Meet our dedicated coaching staff, teachers, and current students to learn about the program from all perspectives.
How to Sign Up
Signing up for a Shadow Day is easy! Simply visit the Hockey Academy webpage of the school you’re interested in and follow the instructions to request your visit. Each school may have its own process, so be sure to check their page for specific details.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olmcschoolecsd/
Philosophy
- Our goal at the Mount Carmel Hockey Academy is to provide each student-athlete an opportunity to pursue excellence, and to improve and develop the physical, mental and tactical demands of the game of hockey.
- Throughout the training, students will improve not only their on ice fundamentals but their time management, independence, collaborative and organizational skills.
- Providing a positive faith-based learning environment and experience that will assist the student-athlete in his or her total development.
- Follow us on Instagram and Facebook @OLMCschoolecsd.
Motto
At Our Lady of Mount Carmel Elementary Hockey Academy, excellence on the ice is just the beginning. Rooted in the belief of nurturing the whole student, our motto, "Head, Hands, and Hearts," encapsulates our commitment to holistic development. Beyond honing their hockey skills, we strive to cultivate responsible citizens who excel intellectually, contribute actively, and lead with compassion. At OLMC, we empower students to engage their minds (head), apply themselves diligently (hands), and embody empathy and integrity (hearts). Join us on this journey where every stride on the ice is matched with growth in character and community.
Staff
Matthew Martin - Program Director
Matthew Martin has played both professionally in Europe and at the University level. He graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor's Degree in Kinesiology. Upon Graduation, he pursued his second Bachelor's Degree in Education at King's University. Matthew has been involved with coaching for the last 10 years. He Joined Our Lady of Mount Carmel Hockey Academy in 2022. He strives in creating a safe and positive learning culture while providing high-level coaching and development for students' skills, leadership, and teamwork.
Experience:
- Hoosac school (USHS - Prep) 2011-2012
- Harrington College (Jr A, QC) 2012-2014
- IFK ORE (SWE - 2) 2014-2015
- Bjorbo IF (SWE - 2) 2015-2016
- Augustana Vikings (ACAC) 2016-2020
Jason Strudwick - Lead Instructor
With over 600 NHL games and 17 years of professional hockey, there is no doubt that Jason Strudwick is a valuable member of our coaching staff at OLMC Hockey Academy. Jason brings drills that players use every practice in the NHL to improve their game and thinking. He is an important figure with not only the Edmonton Oilers but the hockey community surrounding areas and has been working with hockey players of all ages since retiring. We are fortunate to have such a long-lasting relationship with Jason within our Academy.
Experience:
- 10th year at Mount Carmel Hockey Academy
- Kamloops Blazers (WHL) 1993-1995
- Lugano (Swiss-A) 2006-07
- Sodertalje SK (Swe-1) 2011-12
- New York Islanders, Vancouver Canucks, Chicago Blackhawks, New York Rangers, Edmonton Oilers (NHL) 1997-2011
Paul Manning - Lead Instructor
Paul Manning brings tremendous playing and coaching experience to the OLMC Hockey Academy. Paul has played professional hockey for over a decade between NHL, AHL, and top European leagues and is now passionate about teaching and providing students with his knowledge and experience. Paul coaches not only skill development but understanding and mental thinking of the game. He is well-known in the community and works with several other Hockey Academies in our district.
Experience:
- 9th year at Mount Carmel Hockey Academy
- Colorado College (WCHA) 1997-2001
- Syracuse Crunch (AHL) 2001-03
- Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL) 2002-03
- Hamburg Freezers (DEL) 2003-10
- Hannover Scorpions (DEL) 2010-12
Jessica Healey - Lead Instructor
Jess Healey brings a wealth of experience to the OLMC Hockey Academy. Jess grew up here in Edmonton. She played minor hockey in the women's league and went on to win a gold medal in the women's U18 world junior championship with Team Canada. That earned her a scholarship to play four seasons at University of Minnesota - Duluth NCAA division 1. Following her university career she went overseas and played three professional years with the elite Swedish women's league. Jessica is now working with our hockey academy and playing in the Professional Women's Hockey League in North America with some of the best female players in the world. She is also a Master of Counselling Psychology.
Experience:
- Canada U18 (WJC-18) 2013-2014
- University of Minnesota-Duluth (NCAA) 2014-2018
- HV71 (SDHL) 2018-2021
- Buffalo Beauts (PWHL) 2022-2023
- Boston (PWHL) 2023-2024
Ian Gordon - Goalie Instructor
Ian Gordon brings a wealth of knowledge to our goalies and all student-athletes at OLMC. He provides experienced goalie instruction and constantly brings his experiences from a decorated playing career in the AHL and top European leagues. On top of working with our academy, he is the goalie coach of various WHL teams and is involved with Hockey Canada's development program. OLMC is lucky to have Ian as part of our staff.
Experience:
- 9th year at Mount Carmel Hockey Academy
- Swift Current Broncos (WHL) 1992-95
- Saskatoon Blades (WHL) 1994-95
- Saint John Flames (AHL) 1995-97
- Grand Rapids Griffins, Utah Grizzlies, Cleveland Lumberjacks (IHL) 1996-00
- Schwenningen Wild Wings, Frankfurt Lions, Ingolstadt ERC (DEL) 2000-13
Darryl Marchuk - Skating Instructor
Darryl played through the AAA system here in Edmonton and furthered his career playing Junior A hockey. Darryl decided to focus on his studies where he received a degree in Physical Education with a specialization in sports performance at the University of Alberta. In the skating and strength conditioning domain, Darryl has worked with numerous athletes and taught sports performance related continuing education courses to other trainers and coaches.
Experience:
- Spruce Grove (U15 AAA)
- Leduc (U18 AAA)
- Quesnel Millionaires (BCHL)
- Hockey Canada Skills Academy
- Work with players from various level such as WHL, AHL, and NHL
Stephanie Eliuk - Yoga Instructor
OLMC Hockey Academy is very lucky to have Stephanie as our yoga instructor. She brings an amazing feature to our academy. Introducing yoga to our young students has brought benefits that expand beyond the ice. Stephanie has been teaching yoga since 2004. She has attended a 200 hour Iyengar teacher training in Costa Rica. She now shares her passion to teach and the benefits of Yoga with our students. She works with a variety of athletes and has worked with teams in the Professional Women's Hockey League.
Experience:
- 200 Hour YTT (Marianne Wells Yoga School)
- 100 Hour Level 2 YTT ( Ryan Leier & One Yoga Faculty)
- 200 Hour Rocket YTT (Carson Clay Calhoun School of Yoga)
Features
Synthetic Ice
XtraIce Synthetic Ice
XtraIce synthetic ice was developed with the most exclusive clientele in mind. Synthetic ice replicates real ice without refrigeration costs. It is the only synthetic ice used by an NHL team and it can be found in over 40 countries on five different continents. XtraIce is also the only Eco-friendly ice and is 100% recyclable. The synthetic ice is used by OLMC Hockey students to develop their shot power, accuracy, and shot release as well as their puck-handling skills during off-ice sessions without the need for an arena. Academy students wear their skates and gloves during these sessions for their own skill development. OLMC is fortunate enough to have two synthetic ices in our school to allow more students to utilize them during off- ice sessions.
Fitness Centre
Our school boasts a state-of-the-art fitness center dedicated to honing the athleticism of our students through rigorous off-ice training programs. Here, students engage in a comprehensive regimen targeting aerobic and anaerobic conditioning, agility, flexibility, explosiveness, and strength endurance. Under the guidance of experienced trainers, athletes develop the physical prowess necessary to excel in the fast-paced world of hockey, ensuring they are primed to push their limits and achieve their fullest potential both on and off the rink.
Equipment:
- Stationary bikes
- Box jumps
- Hurdles
- Ladders
- Reactionary fitlights
- Medicine balls
- Balance beams
- Skipping ropes
- Rowing machines
- Explosive parachutes
Instructional phases
The OLMC Hockey Academy employs a strategic approach to skill development by selecting monthly focal points that emphasize repetition and muscle memory. By honing in on specific skills for a designated period, such as stickhandling, shooting, or defensive positioning, players can delve deeply into mastering these techniques. This concentrated focus allows for consistent practice, reinforcing neural pathways and enhancing muscle memory, which are crucial for skill retention and execution during gameplay. Moreover, this structured approach enables players to progressively build upon their abilities, leading to more confident and proficient performances on the ice. Ultimately, the emphasis on monthly skills cultivates a foundation of excellence, fostering both individual growth and team success within the OLMC Hockey Academy.
Key points:
- The hockey academy utilizes a number of phases throughout the year to focus on different aspects of our students’ skill and hockey development.
- Our instructors pinpoint individual and collective areas for improvement and strive to continually provide a variety of techniques to keep on-ice sessions productive and engaging.
- Whether it’s through station work, full-ice instruction or game specific drills, the experience of the instructional staff ensures maximum player participation and movement on the ice while simultaneously maximizing development of individual skills.
Field Trips & OLMC classic
OLMC Hockey Academy often embarks on exhilarating field trips throughout the year! Beyond the rink, our dedicated athletes explore the benefits of diverse physical activities. From rock climbing adventures to team-building challenges, and various sports our program emphasizes the importance of holistic fitness. Engaging in various sports cultivates well-rounded athletes, fostering resilience, agility, and teamwork skills essential both on and off the ice. Join us at OLMC Hockey Academy, where every journey is an opportunity for growth and exploration.
Our annual OLMC classic is a charity game put on by the hockey academy and school community that allows us to give back to certain organizations in need. Our academy plays a game with the entire school community in attendance.
Field trip experiences:
- Edmonton Oiler games
- Edmonton Oil King games
- OLMC classic charity game
- City fitshop
- Curling
- Saville centre
- Fitset ninja
- Zip Lining
- Racket sports
- Swimming
- Golf
OLMC Alumni
NHL
- Stuart Skinner
- Tyler Benson
- Mark McNeil
WHL
- Caleb Belter
- Stephane Legault
- Nolan Yaremko
- Dylan Bredo
- Liam Keeler
NCAA
- Karly Heffernan
- Ryan Berlin
- Brec Christenson
- Cade Christenson
Shadow Days
OLMC Hockey Academy is once again able to offer shadow days for students who wish to see the school, view our hockey facilities, and to discuss the program with our Lead Teacher and Instructor. For those interested in applying to the program, and/or to book a shadow day, please email Matthew Martin at matthew.martin@ecsd.net for more information.
Training Schedules
The elementary academy runs Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoons.
Grades 4, 5, and 6 receive two on-ice sessions and two off-ice sessions per week.
Grade 3 receives one on-ice session and one off-ice session per week.
For privacy reasons, group-specific schedules are emailed directly to parents. Please contact Program Director Matthew Martin if you need assistance: Matthew.Martin@ecsd.net
Hockey Academy Fees and Budgets
Sports Academies are programs of choice that involve significant program fees. As such, it is important that parents are aware of how funds are being allocated. Each spring, a preliminary budget for the current school year, along with actual expenditures for the previous year, are posted on the school academy website pages. Sport Academy Fees are spent on student programming, including basic apparel packages, professional coaches and instructors, transportation, venue and tournament fees. For your information, Academy Fees do not include the cost for instruction by certified teachers or instructor apparel. Those costs, as well as additional costs for advertising, are covered by the school.
Academy Fees do not include basic school fees. Basic school fees are charged separately and are in addition to Sports Academy Fees.
If we do not spend all of the funds collected through Sports Academy fees, then the remaining dollars are credited toward the following year fees or reimbursed.
Upon acceptance into one of our Sports Academies, families are required to secure the athlete's registration by May with either:
- A non-refundable deposit that covers apparel, venue, and coaching costs for September, or
- Full payment of the annual fee schedule.
For your convenience, fees may be paid online through PowerSchool. We also accept Visa, or Mastercard in our school office. Please contact our school office at (780) 433 - 1062 for more information about fee payments.
Fee Schedule
2025 - 2026 OLMC Hockey Academy Projected Fee Report
2024 - 2025 OLMC Hockey Academy Projected Fee Report
Academy Registration Timeline
| New Students | Current ECSD Students | ||
| February | Registration Open for NEW STUDENTS to ECSD
Register at www.ecsd.net | February | Pre-Enrolment on Parent PowerSchool
Complete Pre-Enrolment on Parent PowerSchool |
| Early April | Academy Admission Process Begins
| Early April | Academy Continuation
Returning academy students must have met academic standards in the previous year to continue.
|
| April - After Spring Break | Confirmation of Acceptance and Contracts Distributed
| April - After Spring Break | Confirmation of Acceptance and Contracts Distributed
|
| April 30 | Contract Deadline
| April 30 | Contract Deadline
Failure to meet the deadline may result in the loss of a secured placement in the academies. |
| May 31 | Deposit Due & Apparel Order Completed
OR
| ||
Eligibility
- Grades 3 - 6
- The Academy programs can accommodate male and female hockey players of all skill levels (Intermediate and Advanced)
- Students who are considering the Our Lady of Mount Carmel sports academies have a desire to learn and a commitment to better themselves both physically and intellectually
- Is Organized, Dedicated, Works Hard, Achieves Academic Potential
New Applications
- New students accepted on application
- Teacher and/or coach referral is required
- Students in our sports academies take part in training in the afternoons, and as such, academics is condensed into the morning schedule. This requires students to be actively involved in their learning and demonstrate consistent effort in completing their schoolwork.
- Due to safety regulations, OLMC Hockey Academy must keep an adequate ratio of students to coaches. Hockey Academy capacity will depend on available coaches year to year.