FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 25, 2025
Elite Hockey Academy Names Jim Henkel as New 18U Head Coach; Matt Voity to Join as Assistant and Director of Goaltending for 2025–2026 Season!
Branford, CT – Elite Hockey Academy is excited to announce the hiring of Jim Henkel as the new Head Coach of the 18U Academy team for the 2025–2026 season. Joining him will be Matt Voity, who will serve as Assistant Coach and Director of Goaltending. Together, they bring a wealth of experience, professionalism, and a strong track record of player development at the highest levels of amateur and collegiate hockey.
About Jim Henkel
Jim Henkel, a Connecticut native, brings over 20 years of high-level experience as a player and coach. A former standout at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), Henkel played professionally in the ECHL and AHL before transitioning to coaching. He has held coaching roles at the junior level in the NCDC with the Connecticut Jr. Rangers, as well as with Selects Academy and Mid Fairfield Jr. Rangers, two of the most respected youth and prep programs in the nation.
Henkel is recognized for his player-first mentality, elite skill development systems, and success in advancing players to NCAA Division I programs and professional hockey.
“I’m honored to lead the 18U team at Elite Hockey Academy,” said Henkel. “This program has a reputation for developing not just top-level hockey players, but high-character individuals. I’m excited to build a competitive, fast-paced culture that prepares our players for junior, college, and beyond.”
About Matt Voity
Matt Voity brings more than two decades of coaching experience, with a specialty in goaltender and defensive development. Most recently, he served as Goaltending Coach for American International College (AIC) and UMass Amherst, both strong NCAA Division I programs. Voity has also coached professionally with the Danbury Hat Tricks (FPHL), in the NAHL, and held key roles within USA Hockey’s development system.
Voity is known for his technical approach, calm demeanor, and ability to bring out the best in goaltenders at every level.
“I’m excited to join Elite Hockey Academy and work alongside Jim,” said Voity. “This program is doing things the right way, and I look forward to helping our players grow into the best versions of themselves—on the ice and off it.”
Leadership Quote
“ We are thrilled to welcome Jim and Matt to our Elite Hockey Academy staff,” said Peter Alden, Director of Elite Hockey Academy. “Jim brings exceptional hockey knowledge and the kind of leadership that creates a winning environment. Matt’s track record with goaltenders and his experience across NCAA and pro hockey will immediately elevate our program. Our players and families should be very excited about what’s ahead.”
Elite Hockey Academy remains dedicated to developing high-character athletes and providing a clear path to the next level through elite coaching, strong culture, and competitive exposure.