everest academy

faculty & staff

administrative team

karl subban

principal

Karl Subban is a former school principal in the Toronto District School Board.
 
He brings a wealth of leadership expertise to Everest Academy as he has worked with learners from the early years to adults taking high school credit courses.
 
In Karl’s thirty-plus years of coaching, teaching and parenting, he proved to be a leader with the gift of inspiring others. He believes that a leader sees the potential in those around him and then works with them to fulfill it. He has dedicated his life to helping young people to grow their potential – to be better at what they do, and to be better people.
 
Karl believes that every student was born with potential, which gives them the ability to learn, grow and develop over time. It is this potential in them that gives them the ability to do more than they think they can. It is the primary responsibility of school staff to help students to believe in their potential and to work with them to fulfill it.
 
Karl and his wife Maria have raised five accomplished children. Their eldest son, PK, was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens and won the Norris Trophy for top defenceman in the NHL. Their youngest two sons, Malcolm and Jordan, were selected and signed by the Bruins and Canucks. Also, their two daughters, Nastassia and Natasha, are educators in TDSB, one a university basketball star and the other a talented visual artist.
 
Since he retired from TDSB in 2013, Karl worked with Scott Colby from the Toronto Star to write and publish his memoir, How We Did It: The Subban Plan for Success in Hockey, School, and Life, which become an immediate, national bestseller. Karl works, leads and develops our parent partners and the Everest Academy team in ways that make a difference in the lives of all our learners.
 
“Your greatest gift is your potential,” he often says, “and your greatest gift to the world is the development of that potential.”
 
Karl is a registered member of the Ontario College of Teachers. 

johnny winstanley

President

Johnny Winstanley brings 15 years of experience in private school education. He began his career at The Hill Academy where he helped grow the program to over 150 students. In 2011, Mr. Winstanley was hired by Everest Academy as Athletic Director and Assistant General Manager and was instrumental in growing the student body to over 270 pupils. Mr. Winstanley is passionate about meeting new people building strong relationships; he looks forward to exercising that passion in his role as President. Mr. Winstanley lives in Etobicoke with his wife and three beautiful children.

clem d'orazio

ELEMENTARY VICE PRINCIPAL &
lacrosse director

Clem is the Vice Principal of the Junior and Intermediate department at Everest Academy and is the Lacrosse Director of the Men’s Prep Lacrosse team. His educational and coaching philosophy is based on character programming that will give the student-athlete the best opportunity to learn the necessary skills to succeed in post-secondary schooling. Clem is also a highly respected Lacrosse Coach and Assistant General Manager in the NLL with the Albany FireWolves. Clem graduated from Brock University with a Bachelor in Physical Education and a Masters of Science in Education from Medaille College. He is a successful coach, winning national and international titles throughout his playing and coaching career. Clem is a registered member of the Ontario College of Teachers.

trevor small

secondary Vice Principal &
head of academics

Trevor Small is the High School Vice Principal and Director of Guidance at Everest Academy. He has over a decade of combined teaching, guidance, and administrative experience in private schools, including ten years at Everest Academy. Trevor graduated from Lakehead University with a Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Education.  Pedagogically, his focus is to help provide a comfortable and enjoyable school environment that encourages risk-taking, all while maintaining a high academic standard. Alongside the teaching staff at Everest, Trevor strives to provide students with opportunities for personal growth, in areas such as responsibility, accountability, and self-advocacy. Trevor is a registered member of the Ontario College of Teachers.

Mathew sisca

ADMISSIONS

Mathew has been working in private school education for 6+ years in many different roles. He is well known around the arenas after his lengthy playing career which included him getting drafted to the Niagara Ice Dogs and playing four season with three different teams in the Ontario Hockey League. After the OHL, Mathew proceeded to play seven years professionally in leagues such as the ECHL, EBEL Austria, and EIHL England. Once Mathew retired, he began coaching in the GTHL and has been a coach in the AAA level for the past five seasons.

Mathew is Co-owner of CAD Hockey which has grown year over year due to the hard work he puts in with families every day.

Mathew brings the necessary on and off ice knowledge to Everest Academy that helps students and families take the next step in their academic and athletic journey.  

Karen Cribari

admissions & transportation coordinator

Growing up in an athletic family, Karen brings a wealth of knowledge, passion and excitement to our program. Karen has built multiple Hockey development programs with great success. Her organizational skills and strong work ethic will be a great addition to the Everest Team.

kim Summers

financial controller

Kim brings many years of accounting experience to her role as Financial Controller. Having worked mainly in the Hockey industry, she has a great knowledge and understanding of the student-athlete. Kim is responsible for all day-to-day finance as it relates to enrolment and business activities around the school.

ruth hernandez

finance

Ruth brings many years of accounting experience to her role with our Finance Team. She studied at Seneca College in the Accounting and Finance program and then started her work experience in the corporate world. She later made the change to the academic sector and has a wealth of experience in assisting families and students with selecting their best financial options. Ruth works alongside Kim Summers, coordinating all day-to-day finance aspects of the school.

Blake Ricci

Director of operations

Blake Ricci brings 10+ years of management, operations, and admin experience in private school education and minor/junior hockey. Blake graduated from the University of Guelph with a BA in Sociology and went back to school to complete his Graduate Certificate in Sports Business at Durham College. He began his career at the Canadian Ice Academy and the Toronto Jr. Canadiens Minor Hockey Organization in a variety of different roles. He was hired as the General Manager with the Toronto Jr. A Canadiens of the Ontario Junior Hockey League and served in this role from 2015-2023 winning the Executive of the Year Award in the 2021-2022 season. He currently works as GTHL U16/U18 Scout with the Guelph Storm.

Hanna Burnett

Women's Lacrosse coach &
marketing & Operations manager

After serving two seasons as the Coach of the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks, four seasons with Evolve Elite Lacrosse, and six seasons with Team Ontario U15 and U19, Hanna brings a wealth of knowledge around Women’s Field Lacrosse and Field Lacrosse Goaltending with her to Everest. As an athlete, she was a member of Team Ontario and the starting goaltender at Wilfrid Laurier University through her undergraduate and Masters degrees. While at Laurier she was a two-time OUA MVP and four-time OUA All-Star. With the Golden Hawks she won two OUA Gold medals and one OUA Silver medal. She was inducted into the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks Hall of Fame in September 2019. Hanna is an internationally rated Women’s Lacrosse Official, having participating in the Women’s Lacrosse World Cup and Asia Pacific Championships in 2017 and the U19 World Cup in 2019. Beyond coaching, she is a member of the Admissions Team and serves in a Marketing role at Everest Academy. 

stephanie commisso

Digital Content and Social Media Coordinator

Stephanie brings a Communications background to her role at Everest Academy having obtained a BA in Communications and Media Studies, specializing in Journalism. Stephanie is also certified in Digital Marketing and has experience managing communications in a private school setting. Stephanie is excited to look after the marketing and social media aspects of Everest Academy.

Tanya divincentiis

Office Administrator

Tanya brings 15 years of Office Administrative experience to Everest. With expertise in administrative tasks, and organizational skills Tanya will be an important asset to the Everest Team.  Tanya worked as a Team Manager for five years within the GTHL for the Toronto Jr Canadiens. Her passion and love for the game of Hockey will make her feel at home at Everest Academy. Tanya lives in Bolton with her husband and two teenagers; on her down time she is an avid cyclist who has participated in the “Ride to Conquer Cancer” for the past 13 years. Tanya is excited about the vision Everest Academy has for the students and staff. 

academic team

rebecca buck

special education & resource teacher &
women's lacrosse coach

Rebecca Buck graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Sociology from Carleton University. She then pursued her Bachelor of Education from Nipissing University focusing on the Primary/Junior grades in North Bay. She also has a graduate certificate in Autism and Behavioural Science. She has has many years of experience working with adults who have exceptionalities as well as students with exceptionalities in an educational setting. Rebecca believes in inquiry-based learning and hitting the multiple intelligences in her classroom to allow achievement from all students. As an educator she works with the growth mindset and inclusivity in order to create positive and well-rounded students. Growing up playing and coaching both Hockey and Lacrosse her focus is to present student-athletes with transferable skills both inside and outside of the classroom. Rebecca is a registered member of the Ontario College of Teachers. 

Sam Layton

Director of guidance

Sam brings 8 years of teaching experience, in both private and public schools across Canada, South Korea, and New Zealand. She graduated from the University of Guelph, with a degree in Theatre Studies, and the University of Canterbury, with a Graduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning. Sam’s guidance practice is influenced by various experiences, garnered across multiple countries, cultures, and her 20+ years working in the camp industry. Sam is passionate about the performing arts, fostering creative work with learners, the outdoors, and is always up for a challenge, such as WWF’s annual CN Tower stair climb. She is also an avid rugby and football fan (Go All Blacks and Steelers!) Sam is a registered member of the Ontario College of Teachers.

Michael Byrne

Secondary TEacher

Michael graduated from Western University with a degree in Business Management and Organizational Studies (BMOS) and later completed his Bachelor of Education (BEd) at Nipissing University. As someone who has always been passionate about nurturing the potential in kids, Michael has enjoyed more than 10 years’ experience as a volunteer teacher, math tutor and sports coach.  As a former varsity athlete at Western and current player for the Albany Firewolves of the National Lacrosse League (NLL), Michael understands the rewards of a well-rounded education that includes participation in sport. Michael believes the priority of a teacher is to focus on the well-being and growth of each and every child. Michael’s objective is to empower young students to be all they can be, and respect others’ aspirations to do the same. Michael is a registered member of the Ontario College of Teachers.

Robert dunham

Secondary TEacher

Robert graduated from Lakehead University with a double major in History and Outdoor Recreation. From there he went on to complete his teaching degree in Australia, which ignited a love for travelling in him. This brought him to Cambodia (where he met his wife), Kosovo and South Korea, over the course of eight years. Robert has always enjoyed the rapport which is able to be built with students and looks forward to building this with the students at Everest. He is excited to be back in Ontario and to enjoy the ski season again.

Ryan kaszuba

On-Ice goaltending Skills Coach &
elementary teacher

Ryan graduated from Queen’s University with an Honours B.A. in the Humanities as well as a Bachelor of Education. Since graduating, he has been teaching mathematics in Sweden where he helped to develop a problem-solving based program as the Head of the Mathematics Department. As an educator, he believes teaching and learning is so much more than simply memorizing facts and formulas. He is dedicated to creating engaging lessons that challenge his students to think critically and solve problems both inside and outside of the classroom. Ryan joins us as a former student-athlete. While at Queen’s University he was a member of the Men’s Varsity Hockey Team. He has also worked as a Goalie Coach with the Franco Canadian Goalie School for over 5 years helping to develop young goaltenders through the AAA and Junior ranks. Ryan is a registered member of the Ontario College of Teachers.

natassia kopanos

french teacher

Natassia graduated with an Honours Bachelor of Arts in French Studies at Glendon College, York University. She received her certification of Bilingualism. Natassia feels that being exposed to the French language and the Francophone culture enriches your learning experience. With more than ten years of experience teaching in the private sector and various classroom settings, she has had the pleasure of working with students from Preschool to Grade 12. When she was an Education Director, she worked on developing and evaluating the curricula, teaching procedures and educational resources. As an educator, she feels that it is important to connect and grow alongside the students, and by investing a constant interest in their personal growth and learning. Natassia is driven to help students overcome any barriers that impact their learning, and she firmly believes that student success in education is created through meaningful relationships.  

Sarah lee

secondary teacher

Sarah graduated from Brock University with a Bachelor of Arts in French and English, as well as a Bachelor of Education, in 2012. Following graduation, she spent a year in South Korea, where she taught English as a Second Language.  Prior to joining Everest, Sarah has dedicated her career to teaching student athletes in various settings for 7 years.  Sarah has a passion for helping students discover their strengths and embrace challenges. She enjoys using her love of sports to create a classroom environment that makes students feel comfortable. She currently lives in Vaughan with her husband and two sons. Outside of school, you can find her at the rink watching her oldest son’s hockey games, and playing mini sticks with her youngest. Sarah is a registered member of the Ontario College of Teachers.

Nicole Mccauley

elementary teacher

Nicole graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology, in 2015. Before graduating, Nicole secured her first job as a High School Science Teacher in a Secondary School in Oldham, England. In her second year of teaching, Nicole was given the opportunity to train new teachers alongside the University, demonstrating her ability to effectively share her knowledge and skill with others. She was also appointed as the Literacy Advocate and Curriculum Lead of the department, where she played a key role in creating engaging lessons and fostering a love of learning among students. Nicole has over 5 years working in the Education Industry with experience educating Grade 4 up to Grade 11. She is deeply committed to nurturing students in an environment where they learn because they want to, not because they have to. Nicole is a registered member of the Ontario College of Teachers.

blaze mccullough

elementary teacher

Blaze Graduated from the University of Guelph with a Bachelor’s degree specializing in Accounting, where he also played 4 years of Varsity Lacrosse and won 2 National Championships. After working for 3 years as an Accountant, Blaze decided to follow his passion and chase his dream of becoming a teacher. He then graduated from the University of Toronto OISE program with a Master of Teaching. Blaze has years of experience teaching in both public and private education and also coached the U14 lacrosse team at St. Andrew’s College. Blaze had the opportunity to play lacrosse at the professional level in the NLL, but that came to an abrupt ending due to multiple injuries. Blaze has a strong passion for teaching and especially loves the opportunity to mold young athletic minds into not only great athletes, but more importantly, great people. One of his biggest priorities is getting to know each and every one of his students on a personal level to truly advocate for their well-being and intellectual growth.

In addition to teaching, Blaze has coached for the Toronto Beaches organization at the U12 to U16 ages for both box and field lacrosse. “Adversity only makes us stronger” is something Blaze has lived by over the past several years, and this is a message he plans on bringing forward to all his future students. 

tyler mcdermid

elementary curricular chair &
elementary teacher

Tyler McDermid graduated with a Bachelors of Health and Physical Education from Laurentian University. He pursued and completed his Masters of Education at Griffith University located on the Gold Coast, Australia. Tyler believes in an integrated approach to learning and has achieved positive results in response to his pedagogy. Teaching a curriculum that emulates relevance is a priority within his philosophy. Cross-curricular learning, inquiry based teaching practices and the growing success ideology has become the mediums for student success as it accurately reflects life outside the classroom. Tyler is a registered member of the Ontario College of Teachers. 

taylor milburn

Women's Lacrosse coach &
secondary teacher

Taylor has been involved in Lacrosse for over 15 years, during which time she won multiple provincial and national championships and had the opportunity to take on leadership roles with many of her teams. Within the classroom, her goal is to create a positive learning environment that encourages students to take ownership of their learning while developing the necessary skills to promote success in post secondary opportunities. From a coaching standpoint, she works to develop well rounded athletes that will build up the Lacrosse IQ to allow them to bring creativity to the field. Taylor serves a teaching and coaching role at Everest Academy. Taylor is a registered member of the Ontario College of Teachers. 

lesley oliva

student support

Lesley grew up in Toronto in a family surrounded by competitive sports. She graduated from York University with an Hons.BA in Psychology, and a B.Ed. She has had the pleasure of gaining many years of experience in both the public and private teaching sectors, working within the school boards and running a private tutoring business. Her approach to teaching includes teaching to the whole person, where she aspires to bring out the best in each learner by focusing on individual needs, learning styles, and interests. Her goal is to nurture self efficacy and inspire passion for learning, sports, and life itself. Lesley is a life long learner who strives to continually grow as an individual.  She lives in Vaughan with her husband, two teenagers, and dog. Lesley is a registered member of the Ontario College of Teachers. 

cory pond

secondary teacher

Cory Ann Pond is a secondary teacher at Everest Academy. She grew up on a farm in Norfolk County and possesses over 10 years of coaching and teaching experience. Recently, she graduated from OISE with a Masters of Teaching degree. Her passion for golf is exemplified by her Class A PGA of Canada Golf Professional certification, and she competes internationally, having recently returned from the World Championships in Japan. Additionally, Cory’s background includes a competitive figure skating upbringing, and she continues to enjoy her time at the rink.

Karim premji

secondary teacher

Karim is an individual with a diverse range of experiences and a genuine passion for his pursuits. He holds a Bachelor of Applied Science Degree (B.A.Sc.) in Aerospace and Biomedical Engineering from the University of Toronto’s Engineering Science Program. Over a span of 15 years, he made significant contributions to the telecommunications industry, where he played a pivotal role in designing and developing software for two-way radio systems essential for the seamless operation of public safety services. In the realm of education, he has dedicated himself to his students for more than a decade, teaching subjects including Math, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Computer Science, and Robotics at the college and high school levels. Beyond his professional commitments, Karim has nurtured his lifelong love for hockey, having guarded the net as a goaltender in house leagues in Toronto during his youth. His journey reflects his dedication to learning and his appreciation for a well-rounded life.

Bronwyn williams

elementary teacher

Bronwyn graduated from the University of Toronto OISE program with a Master of Teaching. Prior to obtaining her masters, she graduated from Toronto Metropolitan University, formerly Ryerson University, with a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Studies. During her time at TMU, Bronwyn was also a member of the university’s Varsity Women’s Basketball team. As a former varsity athlete, she understands the positive influence sport has on children’s development both inside and outside of the classroom. Having worked with children aged 6-14, she has had experience teaching a wide range of students, in a variety of classroom environments. Her goal is to create strong relationships with students, where their strengths and areas of growth are celebrated and developed through relevant and engaging activities. Bronwyn hopes that by maintaining these relationships, this will foster a classroom community that builds students up, while challenging each one to be the best student, athlete, and person they can be. Bronwyn is a registered member of the Ontario College of Teachers.

shannon yates-hawkey

secondary teacher

Shannon grew up in the Toronto area and comes from a family of teachers. She has more than 15 years of experience teaching Biology and Life Sciences both internationally and in Canada. She graduated from Vancouver Island University with Bachelor of Biology and Bachelor of Education degrees. She also completed a Masters of Education degree at the University of British Columbia. Shannon taught Biology, Science and Environmental Science internationally for 12 years in South Korea, China, Malaysia and Indonesia. Most recently she taught IB Biology at Mulgrave School in Vancouver for four years. In the classroom, Shannon strives to create a positive and engaging learning environment in which students can achieve their potential and share in the wonder of life’s complexities. Shannon is a registered member of the Ontario College of Teachers. 

wellness team

james gardiner

strength & conditioning director

James is a Certified Athletic Therapist, Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist, holds a Masters Degree in Kinesiology and Health Science and is a Hatha Yoga practitioner. He has worked with top-level athletes in all major sports, blending therapeutics and performance training into a holistic approach to athlete wellness. He has held positions as the Head Athletic Therapist with Vancouver Whitecaps FC (MLS), Halifax Thunderbirds (NLL) as a Head Athletic Trainer in the Blue Jays system (MiLB), a Rehab Coordinator at York University and various therapy, conditioning and sports injury rehab roles, including working as a performance consultant with the University of the Bahamas. He is the creator of novel wellness/lifestyle programming for enhanced athletic performance, is the host of ‘Let’s chAT: the Official Podcast of WFATT, and has also held teaching and mentorship roles in two Athletic Therapy Certification programs within Ontario and presented at conferences across multiple disciplines. 

Rob barbieri

strength & conditioning coach

Born and raised in Toronto where he was part of the York Yeomen Rugby club, Barbieri was spotted by Italian selectors while playing for Canada U-19. He made the move to Overmach Parma in 2003 along with older brother Mike. Robert opted for the Azzurri and was quickly called up to the national U-21 squad. His test debut came against Japan in June 2006, and in 2007 Barbieri made the move from Parma to Treviso, playing with Benetton for the rest of his career with the exception of a single season in the English Premiership with Leicester Tigers in 2014-15. He earned 43 caps for Italy, 14 in the Six Nations, and was part of the 2011 World Cup squad after missing the 2007 event with injury. Barbieri would play just one test against Canada, a 25-16 victory at BMO Field in his native Toronto in June 2012. His last test appearance came against Scotland in June 2017. After a 16-year professional career as a rugby player, Robert now looks to utilize the training and skills acquired to pass on to other athletes. Robert understands what it takes to perform at a high level, and his professional experience is a key fundamental tool in his training regiments. His programs are not theoretical. This is hands on training from a former professional that will help elevate your fitness to the next level.

Matthew arnone

strength & conditioning coach

Matthew is a former professional soccer athlete, who is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, with an Applied Specialization in Mindfulness Meditation. Matthew’s passion for optimal performance in his professional playing career drove him to explore performance in more than just a physical way. With a focus on growth and a healthier approach to sport and life, aims to maximize the potential of every human in body, mind, and heart. 

jen mark

REGISTERED KINESIOLOGIST
head of health and safety

Jen is a Registered Kinesiologist, Certified Athletic Therapist, and Registered Yoga Teacher. Jen is the AT with the Pickering Panthers Junior A Hockey Club and AT with the Junior Men’s team with Field Hockey Canada. Jen has worked with the Toronto Argonauts, our Men’s National Field Hockey team, and other Olympians. Jen worked with York University’s Track and Field team, winning three national team bronze medals and one national championship. With Field Hockey Canada, she has won numerous international medals and took the Men’s Junior team to the World Cup twice. She also travelled with Field Hockey Canada twice to the Men’s Pan Am Cup, placing silver both times. Jen has worked with the Stouffville Spirit, winning the OJHL Championship, with the Newmarket Hurricanes, and the Pickering Panthers, National Finalists. With the York Simcoe Express 2000’s she won the International Silver Stick, OMHA, and OHL Cup. She was a medical manager at the Toronto Pan Am Games. Jen focuses on re-patterning the body with a big focus on balance and core.  Jen also uses her athletic therapy for manual treatments including soft tissue massage, joint mobilizations, and muscle energy. Yoga links flexibility and mindfulness as a pillar to good health and peak performance!

julie macdonald

Registered Massage Therapist
Registered Kinesiologist
Certified Athletic Therapist

Julie is a graduate of the Athletic Therapy program at York University. She has a Masters in Kinesiology and is a Registered Kinesiologist and Registered Massage Therapist.  Julie has worked with active individuals of all ages and abilities, and with numerous athletic programs including the Toronto Argonauts, Toronto Rock Lacrosse, Canadian National Women’s Lacrosse, and Canadian Accredited Independent Schools athletics. Julie is a strong proponent of a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation that treats the body as a whole rather than as independent conditions of pain, injury, or dysfunction.  Integrating her love of anatomy and exercise science with a global approach to the joints, muscles, and connective tissues of the body, Julie enjoys helping each patient achieve their unique lifestyle, performance, and recovery goals. Julie also brings to the table significant experience in the rehabilitation and management of Sports and Exercise Related Concussion. She implements and advocates for inter-dispilinary concussion management practices that are comprehensive, evidence-based, and individualized to meet the unique needs of each patient. Julie is thrilled to join the team at Everest Academy.

athletic staff

lindsay hofford

director of hockey operations

Lindsay Hofford joins Everest Academy with more than 30 years of professional Hockey and business experience. He is the Founder & CEO of Pro Hockey Development Group, which was established in 1992. Pro Hockey Development specializes in hockey development for players of all ages. Hofford is also the founder of NASHA Sports Insurance Company, Highlight Sports Inc. and Bahama Ice. Hofford served as the Director of Amateur Scouting for the London Knights (OHL) from 2010 to 2015 the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL) from 2015 to 2019 and most recently as the Assistant GM of the Arizona Coyotes (NHL). Lindsay also coached for six years in the CHL with the London Knights (OHL) and Lethbridge Hurricanes (WHL). He has worked with over 200 current or former NHL players, including Rick Nash, Brent Seabrook, Auston Matthews, Corey Perry and Mitch Marner. He has won at every level including Championships at the AHL, OHL, WHL, CJHL and Minor Hockey levels. He has an extensive history in coaching, scouting, management and player development. Hofford graduated with political science and sociology degrees from the University of Guelph. 

Daniel Sisca

managing Hockey Director

As a former player, Daniel Sisca brings a wealth of hockey knowledge, skill, and experience. Daniel spent his entire minor hockey career in the GTHL, followed by five years in the OHL, where he spent one year as the captain of the Mississauga Ice Dogs and one year as captain of the Sarnia Sting. His professional hockey career began in the ECHL and extended to the AHL and three years in Europe. During his time in the ECHL, Daniel was awarded to the ECHL All-Rookie Team. Daniel has worked with players of all age groups and various skill levels. He brings his firsthand hockey experience and genuine understanding of the game to help players improve their skills and perform at their highest level.

Ian humphries

hockey instructor

Ian grew up in Canada playing youth hockey in the city of St.Catharines.  He brings 15 years of coaching, mentoring , skill development and training to Everest Academy. He has been involved in hockey for several years. He has coached many teams to success, among them, winning a provincial championship with the Stoney Creek Sabres.  His goal is to provide each player an opportunity to grow in their strengths. Ian believes in developing players with a strong foundation of skills and performance mindset, understanding that success relies on a balance of both. He is also the current Girls Director of Pro Hockey Development Group overseeing their spring program. 

dave d'ammizio

hockey instructor

Dave has extensive experience executing skills training for players at the beginner level through to the NHL. Dave began his coaching with the Toronto Marlboros. He went on to coach the Vaughan Kings, the Stouffville Spirit, and the Junior Canadians. He has enjoyed great team and individual successes, winning GTHL championships and Provincial Championships, watching players move on to win scholarships and be drafted. Dave has also been actively involved in spring and summer Hockey coaching training some of the NHL’s elite players in the BioSteel Hockey Camp. Dave has also been the Toronto Bulldogs head coach for the prestigious Edmonton Brick tournament for the past 10 years, winning it 5 times. Dave continues to train players of all ages and levels with the mindset of helping each and every player reach their full potential. As a hands-on instructor with a big personality, he gets the most out of his players every time they are on the ice. With a focus on developing the players on and off the ice, he exposes them to the skills required for effective leadership, teamwork, nutrition and off ice strength training. He addresses the mental aspects of being involved in the sport in regards to try outs, wins and losses and overcoming adversity and challenges.

justin teakle

Hockey instructor

Justin Teakle brings 19 years of experience working in Hockey Development Programs to Everest Academy. After four seasons playing in the Ontario Provincial Junior League (OPJL), he transitioned into coaching and coached over 1000 games over a 14 season span. That run included one record setting season with the Cobourg Cougars in 2011, where the team finished with a 38-9-3 record. Since 2005 he has served as the Director and Head Instructor of PassHockey and has served as the Head Instructor and Coach for Pro Hockey since 2013. Most recently, he served as Head Coach and General Manager of the Brampton Admiral (2018 to 2020), as Co-Coach of the Markham Majors 06 AAA team (2019), and in 2020 was named Director of Operation for Can-Ice.

 

marc slawson

on-ice skills director

Marc brings eight years coaching and skill development experience with him to Everest Academy. Currently coaching with the Toronto Junior Canadiens organization, Marc spent seven years as the Head Coach of the Don Mills Flyers 2003 program. His achievements with this team were considerable. With a structured plan and a vision to build a premium program, Marc and his DMF players finished the 2018-2019 season winning both the GTHL League and the OHL Cup. They also won an OHF Bantam Championship, and an OHF Peewee Championship. The crowning moment was having 14 of 14 eligible players drafted into the OHL – four 1st round draft picks all in the top 10, including the first, second and fourth overall selections. In addition to the on-ice success of his DMF program and the individual development of his players, Marc has gained many valuable insights into what drives winning, how to achieve the best performance from his players, how to create performance consistency, how to build culture, and what it takes to be successful. These are all assets that Marc has proven lead to a winning formula and Marc is excited to work, share and blend his ideas with all the amazing student athletes and staff that make up the Everest Academy family. 

dave franco

goaltending coach

Dave has coached some of the world’s most elite goalies in the world throughout the last 20 years. Jordan Binnington, Curtis Joseph, Jamie Storr, Steve Mason and Robb Zepp have all spoken about the difference Dave made in their career.  Dave has spent his entire dedicated to excellence in goaltending from his humble beginnings as a young goalie in Toronto to playing pro in Europe through coaching goalies at the NHL, AHL, OHL and European Pro Levels. Dave’s unsurpassed knowledge of the position and proven track record of developing talent for the OHL, NCAA, NHL and European Professional leagues is unrivaled.

marco franco

goaltending coach

Marco’s clients have included numerous NHL stars, CHL stars and European Pros. He has traveled the world and his 20 plus years experience coaching elite level goalies gives FCGS the unique advantage of having two world-class leaders to build the development programs that produce results unlike any other goalie school in the world. Marco is also a fitness expert who understands the physical requirements to play at each level. He also possesses a pro level shooting ability that allows Marco to work with pro goalies on very specific deficiencies.

Alexa Giantsopoulos

hockey instructor

Born in Markham Ontario, Alexa has played hockey since she was four years old. She started playing boys hockey with the Unionville Jets and later joined the Markham Waxers. In 2017 she made the move to girls hockey with the Markham-Stouffville Stars at the Bantam AA level. In her major bantam year, Alexa played for the Central York Panthers and continued with that association for her Midget AA year and then earned a spot on the Junior Panthers for two seasons which she captained in her final year. Cuurently Alexa is entering her second year as a forward for the York Lions in the OUA. Alexa is Coach 1 and 2 Certified and holds Development 1 Trained staus. Alexa has been coaching for the past 2 years and this coming season she will be an assistant coach for the U13AA Panthers

Anthony Nigro

Hockey Instructor

Anthony Nigro is a former first round draft pick of the Guelph Storm of the Ontario Hockey League. He went on to play four seasons split between Guelph and the Ottawa 67’s. Anthony was selected by the St. Louis Blues in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft. He then played for their farm team in the AHL for three seasons before heading over to Europe playing a combined 6 seasons in Italy, Switzerland and Denmark. Anthony finished off his pro career in the ECHL playing for the Brampton Beast winning the ECHL Player Of The Week award in the final week of the 2019-2020 season. Anthony has gained valuable knowledge of the game over his 10 year professional playing career at different levels around the world and uses that to help the next generation with their skill development. 

matt chiarantano

Defensive specialist coach

Matt Chiarantano is currently an Assistant Coach with the Mississauga Steelheads in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Matt works primarily with the defense core of the Steelheads amongst other roles with the club. Prior to his role with the Steelheads, Matt served as an Associate Coach with the North York Rangers in the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL). Matt played junior hockey in the OJHL for the Georgetown Raiders before moving on to the NCAA. Chiarantano is a graduate of Niagara University and was a member of the Purple Eagles from 2012-2016, where he earned a Master’s Degree in Education. Chiarantano had a brief stint in the ECHL as a member of the Brampton Beast before retiring due to injuries. As a member of Team Canada East, Chiarantano won a Silver Medal in the 2010 World Junior A Challenge. Along with coaching, Chiarantano works with many junior and professional players as a skills development instructor and is the owner of MAC Hockey Development. 

Samantha skene

skating coach

Samantha is a Skate Canada figuring skating coach as well as a skating coach for the OHL’s Sudbury Wolves. Samantha comes to Everest with expertise honed through training OHL/NHL players. Samantha is also a skating consultant at Quartexx Management. She was also a guest coach at the recent Pittsburgh Penguins development camp, contributing exceptional guidance to aspiring talents. Samantha is a driving force in enhancing skating techniques and performance, consistently leaving a mark on both professional and aspiring athletes.

bryan cole

men's lacrosse coach

Bryan Cole attended the University of Maryland as a student-athlete where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in American Studies. He was selected as a USILA First Team All-American as well as a team captain in his final season. He currently competes for the Georgia Swarm (NLL) and the Whipsnakes Lacrosse Club (PLL).  Bryan competed for Canada’s national team that won gold at the WILC in 2019. He won an NLL championship in 2017 with the Georgia Swarm and an MLL championship with the Ohio Machine later that summer. Bryan also won a Gold medal at the World Games in Alabama in the summer of 2022 in Men’s Sizes Lacrosse. Prior to joining Everest Academy, Bryan worked as the defensive coordinator for the Pace Academy Lacrosse program in Atlanta, Georgia. Over the last ten years, Bryan has been assisting in the development of High School and youth Lacrosse players who hope to reach the next level.

aaron forster

men's lacrosse offensive coordinator

Aaron Forster attended Everest Academy for his PG year and is thrilled to be back as Offensive Coordinator for the Men’s Prep Team. After Everest Academy, Aaron went on to attend NJIT where he would play NCAA division 1 lacrosse on a full scholarship and make an immediate impact on the field. He currently holds every scoring record at NJIT (10+) and was featured as national player of the week his senior year (2019) after notching 9 goals and 2 assists against Quinnipiac. After his senior year he was drafted 1st round, 15th overall to the Toronto Rock in the National Lacrosse League. He’d go on to score his first goals and points with this club and would later be traded to the Albany Firewolves and reunited with men’s lacrosse director and defensive coach of the Albany Firewolves, Clem D’Orazio.

leo stouros

men's lacrosse defensive coordinator

Leo Stouros attended the University of Colgate as a student-athlete where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in History with honours and dean’s list. He was selected as a team captain in his final season. He currently competes for the Albany FireWolves (NLL) and played for the Chesapeake Bayhawks (MLL).  Leo competed for Canada’s U19 national team that won silver at the 2012 Field World Championship where he received All-World honours. He won an NLL championship in 2017 with the Georgia Swarm as well as 2 Minto and 1 Mann Cup with Six Nations. Prior to joining Everest Academy, Leo works as the Head Coach for the Laurier University as well as the Founder of Spartan Lacrosse Academy in Kitchener, Ontario. Over the last ten years, Leo has been assisting in the development of High School, youth & University Lacrosse players who hope to reach the next level.

jason booth

baseball coach

Jason Booth owns The Dugout Baseball and Softball Academy in Vaughan, ON. He has coached and served as the Director of Baseball Operations with Team Ontario (18U) in the Canadian Premier Baseball League since 2012 and has helped place 150+ players in College Baseball. He attended Tiffin University, Ohio (NCAA) from 1999 to 2001 and Goshen College, Indiana (NAIA) from 2001 to 2004. He also served as the Pitching Coach and Recruiting Coordinator for the University of Saint Francis, Indiana (NAIA) for five years and as a Coach with the Oakville Royals in the Premier Baseball League of Ontario from 2009 to 2012.

KYLE McKay

baseball coach

Kyle McKay is a former professional Baseball player and current coach at The Dugout Baseball and Softball Academy in Vaughan, ON. He is also the Head Coach of Team Ontario 16U. Playing for teams in the Frontier, Pecos, and Mount Rainer Pro Baseball Leagues, Kyle also represented Canada at the World Baseball Challenge in 2013, earning a second best tournament ERA of 1.29 and posting strong outings against Team Cuba and Team Japan, two powerhouses in international Baseball. Kyle attended Kaskaskia College (NJCAA), the University of South Carolina Upstate (NCAA DI), and University of Saint Francis, Fort Wayne (NAIA), earning multiple honours and becoming the all-time career ERA holder.

We'd love to hear from you!

We'd love to hear from you!