Coaching Staff
Head Coaching Staff
Coach Smbat grew up here in Southern California and spent most of my youth inside of ice rinks. I fell in love with the game at an early age and have dedicated my life to it ever since. I have been fortunate enough to play in international competitions, Juniors for the Valencia Flyers, and ultimately at the NCAA level at Worcester State University in Massachusetts. Hockey has introduced me to some of my closest friends, some of my favorite experiences, and has made me a better person off the ice. I owe everything to this game and when my playing career ended, I knew it was my responsibility to share my knowledge and love for the game with our young players.
Coach Tuck's unwavering dedication to personal and professional growth as a coach is evident in his steadfast commitment to continuous learning and improvement. With each passing day, he approaches his coaching duties with a spirit of curiosity and humility, recognizing that there is always more to learn and new ways to evolve.
Coach Pavel was born and raised in Slovakia has competed at the International level alongside current NHL players. Pavel worked with young hockey players on individual and team basis in Slovakia before coming to the United States, for the last 10 years, coaching in Southern California where he built a winning youth hockey program that advances players to the next level. Pavel has guided his AA Riptide teams to appearances at three straight USA Hockey National Championships where he was able to take home a well earned banner for 3rd place in 2013.
Coach Aram started playing hockey at the age of 8 in Los Angeles and haven’t stepped away since. Hockey has played a huge role in my life with some incredible experiences, friends, and life lessons. Long before I stopped playing competitive hockey, I knew I had to give back to the game and the great hockey community that gave me so much. I started my journey as a hockey coach and have been able to grow my passion for hockey even more since.
As a coach, I am proud to help commit our players to better themselves both on and off the ice. I look to teach our players the crucial qualities of respect, sportsmanship, work ethic, teamwork, goal setting, and responsibility that will help them grow as better athletes and better people. I look to do all this, while most importantly emphasizing the fun that this amazing sport brings to all of our kids and the relationships it builds for a lifetime. At the end of each season, I look forward to seeing each player's massive improvement and development.
There is not a game I go into with our team where I do not believe we do not have a chance to win. My philosophy revolves around fostering a positive and work driven environment where players can develop both in athletics and as young men in the world. I prioritize getting the most out of every player and holding them accountable for actions taken on and off the ice. I believe in setting clear expectations, providing constructive feedback, and encouraging the players to bring more out of themselves. Additionally, I emphasize the importance of discipline to themselves and dedication to their craft and our team.
Coach Todd has been playing hockey since he was 8 years old. He has played Tier hockey, high school and played Juniors for the first Valencia Jr. Flyers Team, then played Juniors for the Minnesota Junior Owls in the MNJHL. He started his coaching career when he came back after playing Juniors in Minnesota at the age of 21 with the Valencia Express. From there he has been coaching B, A, AA, AAA hockey including several 1st place Tournaments including a Silversticks Championship, two CAHA Championships and two SCAHA Championships. Currently he holds a non expiring Level 4 USA Hockey Coaching Card.
Coach Caleb has a deep passion and understanding for the game, especially the position of Goaltender. He has shifted his focus to coaching and helping other hard-working goaltenders continue to develop their skills and love for the sport. During his time as a coach, he has worked with goalies of all ages and emphasizes the fun along with the hard work that comes with the position. His goal is to continue to develop goalies with a passion and undeniable work ethic for the position and the sport.
Assistant Coaching Staff
Mathieu Fradet
Taylor Hickman
Nick Gallo
Colby Mead
Gabe Gifford
Dave Tebo