Capitals Academy is pleased to announce that Jeff Chistolini will be the Head Coach of the 2018-19 Squirt Blue team.

This will be Jeff’s third season coaching teams at Kettler Capitals Iceplex, which includes coaching RHL mini-mites, mites, squirts, and RHL Selects teams.

Jeff Chistolini grew up in Westfield, Mass. (Hometown of USA Hockey women’s gold medalist Kacey Bellamy!) Jeff played baseball, basketball, hockey, and skied growing-up. Jeff is currently playing in the Kettler Capitals Iceplex Adult Hockey League.

His coaching philosophy includes a primary focus on player development through the USA Hockey American Development Model (ADM – see more at admmkids.com) and believes that the most important skills players take from hockey have nothing to do with skating, skills, or gameplay but rather are the lessons players learn about teamwork, dealing with adversity, and the importance of proper preparation. 

In addition to coaching, Jeff serves as the RHL coaching coordinator. In this role, Jeff strives to assure that all players at KCI (from RHL to Travel) receive high-quality coaching and develop a life-long love for hockey and sports.

When not on the ice, Jeff enjoys outdoor activities with his wife Meredith and two sons, John and Michael. 

Jeff is a Level 2 USA Hockey certified coach and intends to receive his Level 3 certification this summer.