⭕Your Leaders

Welcome to Becoming Player X

Are you ready to learn from those who have been where you want to go? Over 1,000 students before you have chosen this path and emerged as stronger leaders who are more informed and passionate players. You're about to join a lineage of learners, many of whom have gone on to make a positive change in the game we all love.

Leading you on this path: Mike Valley, Willie Desjardins and Stacey Meyer.

Mike Valley – Your Mentor & Guide: To give you a bit of a background in his journey, he began in the BCHL, advanced to NCAA at Wisconsin, and then had the incredible opportunity to sign with the Vancouver Canucks, playing professionally for six years. But his love for the sport didn't stop there. He transitioned to coaching and spent 8 years as the goalie coach for the Dallas Stars. Furthermore, he devoted a year as a development coach with the Nashville Predators. He's eager to share his insights, lessons, and experiences with all of you.

Willie Desjardins – Your Mentor & Guide: Willie Desjardins is a distinguished coach with experience at all levels of the game. Notably serving as head coach for the NHL's Vancouver Canucks (2014-2017) and Los Angeles Kings' interim coach (2018–19), he's left an indelible mark on the sport. His accolades include leading Canada's men's team at the 2018 Winter Olympics and winning the Dunc McCallum Memorial Trophy for Coach of the Year. Presently, he's the head coach and general manager of WHL's Medicine Hat Tigers.

Rick Carriere – Your Teacher: Your primary point of contact for this course will be Rick Carriere. He is the former Senior Director of Player Development for the Edmonton Oilers.

Rick was an assistant coach with the Saint John Flames of the American Hockey League from 1992 to 1994, before moving to the Western Hockey League where he was the head coach of the Red Deer Rebels from 1994 to 1996, and of the Medicine Hat Tigers from 1996 until 2000 when he became the team's General Manager. He remained GM until 2004, and stayed with the Tigers as a scout until 2012.

He will oversee your learning experience, helping you navigate through assignments, scores, and any questions you might have. With a deep understanding of the sport and a passion for education, Rick is dedicated to ensuring that your journey in "Becoming Player X" is smooth, insightful, and transformative.

"Becoming Player X" isn't just a course; it's a transformational journey enriched by the knowledge and experiences of those who have lived and breathed hockey. So, lace up your skates and prepare for the course of a lifetime!