Instructors
Pat Loyer
13 years ago, Pat Loyer started the first Defenders Hockey School. Over the years the school has grown, but Pat has made sure that Defenders keeps its personal touch. Pat always manages to deal with the human aspect of teaching and relates directly to the players. As a former WHL defenceman, Pat's ideas and concepts are widely respected. Every year, Pat proves that fun and hard work are the cornerstones to creating a great hockey player.
Joe Deiure
Joe has been with Defenders from the start. As a Fire Inspector with the City of Calgary Firefighters, he has known Pat for many years including coaching at Defenders Hockey School for its entire history. Joe is also involved with the Calgary Royal's AA program.
Warren Renden
Not only is Warren a seasoned coach, he also has many years experience in both hockey and lacrosse. He is a scout with the Kamloops Blazers and also coaches lacrosse. After coaching over 2000 elite players, Warren has the knowledge and experience that demands respect. His achievements speak for themselves, but probably his greatest achievements come one player at a time. His down-to-earth attitude helps him to relate to the players. If you listen, you will find that his knowledge is contagious. He is more than willing to share his knowledge with all players, giving them the chance to improve their hockey skills.
Cole Vindevoghel
After 8 years of attending the school, Cole finally got his chance to move from pupil to teacher. As a former Junior C hockey player, he has always had to work hard to improve his skills. With a knowledge of what it is like to be a pupil in the camp, Cole is able to relate to many of the players.
Bruce Cowie
Bruce, in addition to his years as a Defenders Hockey School instructor is also the Head Coach of the Midget AA Blazers. He has 6 years experience as an assistant coach for Bantam AA, AAA and Midget AA in the NE, SE and NW. His knowledge, experience and helpful attitude all make Bruce an ideal instructor for Defenders. He believes in Pat's school, as it teaches at lot of basic defensive skills as well as the proper checking technique. Bruce insists that the power skating is not only a great for conditioning, but for strengthing as well. He adds that he "[has] seen great improvements in all players that attend this school."
Jim Bender
Jim is another instructor with Defenders Hockey School who has extensive experience within the hockey community. A former player in Europe, he now coaches for Trails West community. He is actively involved in hockey all around Calgary and is able to give excellent advice to aspiring players.
Alex Dayman
Alex is the newest addition to Defenders Hockey School. With 7 years of experience in the school, Alex is able to relate to the players as well as give them valuable pointers .