Meet The Team
Our team of dedicated instructors brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the rink | training facility | classroom, ensuring that each player develops their skills in a supportive and engaging environment. Our instructors are committed to fostering a love for the game while emphasizing teamwork, discipline, and personal growth. Join us as we inspire the next generation of athletes to reach their full potential on and off the ice!
Ken Dzikowski
Program Lead
A dedicated hockey professional with an impressive background as both a player and instructor. He began his career as a player at the University of Minnesota Duluth, competing at the NCAA Division I level. Following his collegiate success, Ken went on to enjoy a six-year professional career in the German Bundesliga, capturing a national championship in 2004.After retiring from professional play, Ken channeled his expertise into coaching and skill development, founding Find Your Stride Hockey School. As the owner and lead instructor, he is committed to mentoring players of all ages and skill levels, helping them develop their skills and build confidence on and off the ice. Ken’s commitment to excellence and his wealth of experience makes him a respected figure in the hockey community and a trusted mentor for aspiring athletes.
Cora Place
Cora Place is a dedicated hockey player turned coach with 24 years of experience in the sport. Her journey began in boys' minor hockey in Indus Alberta, where she played for seven years, before advancing to female AAA hockey for three seasons. She continued to excel in her career, playing two years in the Junior Women’s Hockey League (JWHL) for the Warner Warriors (CSSHL), further refining her skills at a competitive level. Cora then moved on to U SPORTS in 2014, playing for five years. With both the University of Lethbridge Pronghorns for three seasons and the Mount Allison University Mounties for two. Now a coach, Cora draws on her extensive playing experience to mentor and inspire the next generation of hockey players. Her diverse background, from minor hockey to university competition, equips her with a deep understanding of the game, which she uses to help athletes grow both in skill and confidence on the ice.
Sarah Portelance
My skating journey started in Medicine Hat while I was living in jenner. I eventually made my way to Edmonton to train, where I picked up a few titles along the way including novice and junior national figure skating championships. I even got to represent Canada internationally. I have been sharing my passion of skating for 25 years from figure skating to powerskating. I am currently the head coach at the Medicine Hat Skating Club.
Carlene Keetley
I'm a proud Medicine Hat native with a passion for sports and education. I have two boys who play competitive and travel hockey, so sports are a big part of my family's life. I hold a degree in Kinesiology from the University of Lethbridge and a teaching degree from the University of Alberta. For the past 18 years, I've been dedicated to teaching, sharing my love for movement and wellness with my students. Alongside my teaching career, I've earned my Level 1 and 2 coaching certifications and have a background in high-level soccer, which has given me a strong foundation in both athletic performance and coaching. Whether on the ice, the field, or in the classroom, I'm passionate about helping others reach their potential and stay active.
Shayne Brown
I am looking forward to beginning the SD76 academy to be able to help develop individual technical skills to apply them in tactical situations. I hope to use my previous experience as a player to help guide and develop athletes. I started playing hockey since I was 3 years old and grew up in Stony Plain, Alberta. I have played at various levels of hockey including U15 AAA, U18 AAA, Medicine Hat Tigers from 2005-2008 and the Everett Silvertips in 2008-2009. I have been a coach for 14 years in minor hockey where I have coached all levels up to U15. I have coach level 1, level 2, and checking skills certifications and also Respect in Sport coach.
Alysia Pidlisny
Family School Liaison Worker
I am excited to join our academy in supporting mental health as this is the perfect blend of my passions. I have been a registered social worker for the past 24 years and have been in working in schools for the past 11 years. I have supported kids in many capacities and am excited for this new opportunity with the athletes of SD76. In my personal life, I am also a Mom to 3 kids who have grown up through the likes of all levels of sport and have cheered them on in house leagues, club teams and academies . I am hopeful that the blend of professional and personal experiences can enhance my perspective in supporting your children and your families.