2026-27 Coaching Staff
ELITE GOLDEN KNIGHTS – INAUGURAL SEASON COACHING ANNOUNCEMENT
The Elite Golden Knights are proud to announce the coaching and hockey operations staff that will lead the program into its inaugural season in the Eastern Hockey League.
As a newly established junior organization, we are excited to launch our first season with a staff whose credentials span NCAA Division I hockey, the USHL, NHL scouting, Team USA experience, and elite performance training. From day one, the standard is set.
Peter Alden – Head Coach
Former NCAA Division I player at UMass Amherst and Quinnipiac University, Peter Alden brings high-level playing experience and a deep understanding of the collegiate pathway. His leadership, structure, and attention to detail will set the foundation for the Golden Knights’ culture in year one.
Matt Beck – Assistant Coach
Matt Beck most recently served as an Assistant Coach in the USHL with the Omaha Lancers. He also previously held the role of Director of Player Personnel and Video at the University of Nebraska Omaha hockey program. A former Division I goaltender at the University of Vermont, Matt brings Tier I junior experience, NCAA staff experience, and proven player development to the bench.
Jared Waimon – Goalie Coach
Jared Waimon’s background includes serving as goaltending coach at Quinnipiac University, where he was part of the staff that captured the 2022–23 NCAA National Championship, along with roles as goaltending scout for Team USA U20, assistant coach for Team USA U18, and most recently as goaltending scout for the Tampa Bay Lightning. His experience spanning NCAA championship success, international competition, and the NHL level provides elite level development for our goaltenders.
Michael Brueler – Strength & Performance Coach
A former Wesleyan University football player who competed professionally in Europe, Michael Brueler brings high-level athletic performance training to the Golden Knights. His background developing Elite Hockey Academy’s 16U and 18U teams ensures our players are prepared physically for the demands of junior hockey.
Zach Schatz – Hockey Operations
Zach oversees hockey operations for Elite Hockey Academy and will play a vital role in maintaining structure and daily execution throughout the Golden Knights’ inaugural season. He coordinates scheduling, communication, and logistics, ensuring a professional environment that allows players and staff to focus fully on development and performance.
Randy Walker – Senior Scout & Advisor
With extensive junior hockey experience including the Sioux City Musketeers, Jr. Titans, USA Hockey, and the Peterborough Petes, Randy Walker strengthens the Golden Knights’ recruiting reach and roster construction strategy. His expertise in player identification and long-term advancement pathways will be instrumental in building a competitive EHL roster.
Prospect Tryouts
The Elite Golden Knights will hold Prospect Tryouts March 28-29 at
Total Mortgage Arena
Bridgeport, Connecticut
We are excited to begin this new chapter in the EHL with a staff built for advancement, structure, and long-term player development.
The inaugural season starts now.