Ironbound Elite is excited to announce that former NHL, AHL, US National, and current Princeton Day School coach, Blake Kessel, will head up our 16u Premier team for 2021-22 season.

Blake will work to develop players to advance to the collegiate level. His passion and understanding for what is required is second-to-none and he will full-time assist with the 19U Premier and 14U teams when available.

In 2020-21 season Blake assisted with the 19U premier and 16U Premier teams and has gone on to teach defensive skills to our groups. Blake’s resume speaks for itself after being drafted by the New Islanders in 2007.

Blake went on to play for UNH hockey for 3 seasons where he was added to the all-hockey east team 2009-10 season and represented the USA at the 20U World Jr Championships.

Blake signed with the Philadelphia Flyers in 2010 and played for within 13 professional organizations over his 10-year professional career.

Now, Blake has settled in New Jersey with his wife Courtney (Birchard) Kessel – who also coaches for Princeton University. Blake has 2 siblings who also play hockey – Amanda and Phil – who are both currently playing in the US national team and NHL respectively.

Hockey Director Sam Cheema notes that “we are extremely fortunate to have someone of Blake’s hockey pedigree within our organization. Blake has played at every level, worked alongside coaches at every level, and has a deep understanding of what is required to advance elite-level hockey players. His passion for the game speaks volumes and he is deeply rooted in the growth of female hockey with his sister and wife both at the pinnacle of the sport.”

 

Learn about May 17th tryouts. 

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