Coaching Staff

Born on December 8, 1926, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada to Ukrainian immigrant parents John and Dorothy Kormylo, Wally’s love for hockey began early. He first laced up his skates around the age of four and spent countless hours playing spirited games of pond hockey with friends—often concealing bumps and bruises from his concerned parents. His devotion to the game never wavered.

At 20, Wally moved to the United States and proudly earned his citizenship by enlisting in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. During his service, he began coaching the U.S. Air Force Academy hockey team, marking the beginning of an extraordinary coaching journey. Around the same time, his skating talents took him to the stage as a performer in a traveling ice show, where he became known for thrilling stunts like barrel jumping. It was during this chapter of his life that he met his beloved wife, Darlene. The two married in 1955 and settled in the Chicago area to start a family.

Over the decades, Coach Wally became a fixture in rinks across Chicagoland, most notably at Centennial Park Ice Arena in Highland Park and the Glenview Ice Arena. He held a number of esteemed coaching positions, including:

• Head Coach, U.S. Air Force Academy hockey team
• Power Skating Coach, Chicago Blackhawks
• Head Coach, Korean American National Hockey Team
• Hockey Director, Highland Park Leafs, Glenview Stars, and Falcons Hockey Association
• Head Coach, Chicago Minor Hawks
• Power Skating Coach, Chicago Young Americans & Team Illinois
• Power Skating Coach (20+ years), Turcotte Stickhandling Schools
• Volunteer Skating Coach (50 years), Stan Mikita’s American Hearing Impaired Hockey Association (AHIHA)
• Coach at the Falcons Hockey Association for over 40 years

Coach Wally’s dedication and influence earned him many accolades, including:

• 1989 “Gunzo” Trophy from AHIHA for his contributions
• 2005 Induction into the Illinois Hockey Hall of Fame
• 2007 Lifetime Achievement Award & Induction into the Falcons Hall of Fame
• 2010 William Thayer Tutt Award from USA Hockey
• Featured on Fox Chicago, NBC, ABC, and ESPN for his lifelong service to the game

Beyond the accolades, Coach Wally was revered for his warmth, integrity, and his deep belief in the potential of every player he worked with. He gave his time generously and mentored with humility, grit, and joy.

Wally passed away on October 3, 2023, just two days after celebrating his 68th wedding anniversary with Darlene, the love of his life. His legacy lives on in every skater he inspired, every team he guided, and every life he touched along the way.

Nick currently serves as Head Coach for multiple teams within the Falcons Hockey Association, where he has been instrumental since 2012 in preparing young athletes for the next level of competition. He also holds key leadership roles as President of the Falcons Hockey Association and Vice President of the Chicago United Hockey League (CUHL), helping guide the strategic direction and growth of youth hockey in the region. Prior to his current roles, Nick led Stevenson High School’s JV team from 2002 to 2012 and previously held head coaching positions at Deerfield and Highland Park High Schools.

Throughout his career, Nick has guided numerous teams to State and League Championships, demonstrating his consistent ability to build high-performing, disciplined teams. Most notably, during the 2022–2023 season, he led his Peewee Minor team to a standout double victory, capturing both the Central States Championship and the Illinois State Championship.

Passionate about player development and the values of teamwork, sportsmanship, and competitive excellence, Nick is committed to mentoring athletes to reach their full potential. His coaching philosophy emphasizes strategy, discipline, and personal growth—both on and off the ice.

A former Falcons player himself, Nick’s roots in the organization run deep. His family has been a foundational part of the Falcons community for over 40 years. Whether leading a championship team or guiding individual players toward their goals, Nick Meo continues to shape the next generation of hockey players with unwavering dedication and integrity.

Known for his energetic style, patient teaching, and the genuine relationships he builds with his players, Coach Agrest is the kind of coach kids remember for life. Whether he’s helping a first-time skater find their stride or guiding a team through a national championship, he brings enthusiasm, warmth, and an unwavering belief in his players.

Over nearly three decades, his teams have achieved incredible success, including:

• 1 NHL Gold Championship
• 8 State Championships
• 5 Central States Championships
• 1 National Championship
• 1 National Runner-Up Finish

But ask any player or parent, and they’ll tell you his real impact goes far beyond the scoreboard. Coach Agrest is known for making hockey fun, building confidence in every kid, and creating a team culture where players feel like family.

In addition to coaching, he’s been a dedicated leader within the Falcons organization—managing teams since 2000 and serving on the Falcons Executive Board for 22 years. He’s also helped guide and shape the growth of youth hockey at a district and state level, serving 12 years on the Central States Board and currently holding the role of Executive Vice President of the Central States Developmental Hockey League. He has also served on the AHAI Board Committees for 6 years.

A USA Hockey Level 4 Certified Coach, Glenn continues to be a driving force in youth hockey—coaching not just to win games, but to build character, passion, and love for the game.

Tom’s resume speaks for itself:

• 20+ State Championships

• 20+ League Championships

• 10 CUHL D1 Championships

• 150+ players coached who advanced to NCAA hockey, with several reaching the NHL and even the Olympics

In 2015, Tom was recognized for his outstanding contributions to the sport with an induction into the Illinois Hockey Hall of Fame.

A former NCAA Division III player, Tom brings not only high-level playing experience, but a philosophy centered on passion and effort. He firmly believes that the most important part of coaching is inspiring players to work hard, have fun, and develop a lifelong love for the game.

Tom continues to be a cornerstone of the Falcons Hockey Association, shaping the next generation of players with dedication, integrity, and a deep love for hockey.

Throughout his tenure, Bob has led multiple teams to nearly 30 State, CSDHL, and NIHL Championships, and has guided six teams to the USA Hockey National Championships, achieving a runner-up finish and securing a National Championship title . His leadership has been instrumental in advancing numerous former Falcon Midget players to AAA, Junior, and collegiate hockey programs.

In addition to his coaching accomplishments, Bob has contributed significantly to the broader hockey community in Illinois. He has served on various Tier 2 AHAI and CSDHL committees and has been an evaluator at the AHAI Player Development Camps. Currently, he continues to mentor young athletes as the head coach for the Falcons’ Midget U15 and Bantam Major teams.

He was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2004 and played at every level—winning championships at Shattuck-St. Mary’s, the University of Wisconsin, and later in the AHL with the Grand Rapids Griffins. Along the way, he shared the ice with some of the biggest names in the NHL, including Sidney Crosby, Leon Draisaitl, and Joe Pavelski.

 In 2020, Matthew launched Ford Hockey School with a clear mission: to help players master the game by focusing on purposeful development. His training emphasizes puck control—handling, passing, and shooting with intent—along with the awareness and decision-making needed to apply those skills in real game situations.

 With the Falcons Over the past three years, Matthew has coached multiple Falcons teams, leading two to first-place regular season finishes and capturing a CUHL D1 High Championship this past winter. As Skills Director, he works with players across the program to sharpen their fundamentals, improve their confidence, and elevate their hockey IQ. A

True Hockey Family Matthew’s sons, Bennett (2016) and Charlie (2019), both play in the Falcons program—and his father, John, also volunteers as a coach. The Ford family’s deep involvement reflects their love for the game and their strong commitment to the Highland Park hockey community.

He played his youth hockey right here in Chicagoland before making the Varsity team at Notre Dame High School in Niles as a freshman. After that, it was juniors with the Kimberley Dynamiters (KIJHL) and Bay State Breakers (EJHL), then on to Robert Morris University, where he played ACHA Division I. RMU was a powerhouse during his time — four straight national tournament appearances, top 5 national rankings, and back-to-back best seasons in program history. Oh, and he wore the ‘A’ as assistant captain his junior and senior years.

Once his playing days wrapped up, he jumped right into coaching at RMU — and never looked back. Now entering his 11th year behind the bench, Coach Moser has helped players at nearly every level, mostly between U14 and U18, with a focus on building skills, confidence, and character that lasts long after the final buzzer.

These days, he lives in Libertyville with his wife, two energetic kids, their dog, and one more future Falcon arriving this summer. He’s fired up to join the Falcons and bring his passion, experience, and a whole lot of energy to the rink.

Joe is a lifelong Falcon, having played at the Falcons throughout his own career from Mites through Midgets. As a player, Joe won a State Championship, Regional Championship, and a National Championship runner-up as a Peewee with the Falcons.

Joe is a dedicated coach who cares deeply about both player and team development. He is passionate, some would say obsessive, about staying on top of the latest tactical strategies and trends being used across all levels by watching endless film. This helps ensure his players and teams not only operate at the highest level in-season, but are also prepared as they continue to develop their playing careers at the next level.

As a player, Jake came up through the Falcons program, skating under coaches Bob Heelan, Glenn Agrest, and Joe Mirretti at the bantam and midget AA levels. He captained the 2011 Falcons team that made a thrilling run to the Illinois state championship game.

Jake continued his playing career at the University of Maryland–College Park, where he competed in ACHA Division II and served as co-captain. During his time there, he helped lead the Terps to a spot in the ACHA National Championship Tournament.

Off the ice, Jake works in public service as Deputy Chief of Staff to U.S. Representative Brad Schneider, representing Illinois’ 10th Congressional District. Whether it’s on Capitol Hill or in the rink, Jake knows what it means to lead, support a team, and rise to the challenge.

He’s proud to give back to the program that shaped his hockey journey and looks forward to helping develop the next generation of Falcons.

One of his proudest coaching moments? Helping lead the 2022–2023 Peewee Minor team to a double title season — Central States Champions and Illinois State Champions. Not too shabby!

Before trading in his skates for a whistle, Dave played ACHA Division II hockey at both Illinois State University and Northern Illinois University, bringing that competitive edge to everything he does behind the bench.

Off the ice, Dave is a Finance Manager and proud full-time girl dad which means he’s no stranger to multitasking, early mornings, or glitter.

After college, Ross came full circle, returning to the Falcons to give back to the program that built him. Over the past 11 years, he has been a driving force behind the Bantam and Pee Wee teams, helping shape the next generation of Falcon athletes. His connection to the organization runs deep, and he brings with him a sense of pride, tradition, and a personal investment in every player who wears the Falcons jersey.

Ross isn’t just a coach—he’s a mentor, motivator, and role model. With a full-time career as a middle school math teacher, he has a unique ability to connect with young athletes, meet them where they are, and guide their growth far beyond the ice. He understands how kids learn, how they thrive, and how hockey can be a powerful tool for teaching life lessons—teamwork, resilience, accountability, and respect.

On the ice, Ross brings a coaching style that’s upbeat, hands-on, and full of heart. He’s known for making practices fun, fast-paced, and focused—building not just better hockey players, but confident young people who love coming to the rink. His players respond to his enthusiasm and energy, and parents trust him as a steady, positive influence in their children’s lives.

Ross’s lifelong journey through the Falcons program, from player to coach, has made him an invaluable part of the organization. He continues to give back to the club that shaped him, helping ensure that the Falcons legacy remains strong for years to come.

He went on to play four years of NCAA Division I hockey at the University of Notre Dame, coached by Dave Poulin and Jeff Jackson. Those five coaches—Murray, Ward, Carlson, Poulin, and Jackson—along with his early youth coaches, played a major role in shaping both his playing career and his approach to teaching the game. He considers himself fortunate to have learned from such influential mentors and aims to pass that knowledge on to the next generation of players.

After his playing career, he served as Manager and Director of Hockey Operations for the United States Hockey League (USHL) from 2009 to 2013, gaining valuable experience in the administrative and developmental side of the sport.

Since 2011, Tony has been coaching with the Falcons across multiple age groups and competitive levels. During his tenure, he has coached:

·      8 AHAI State Championship teams and 3 State Finalists

·      4 CSDHL Championship teams

His coaching philosophy centers around preparation and teamwork:

“My goal for each team is to strive to have the perfect practice and game. If the players work with each other to try to reach that goal, the team and individual players will keep improving.”

Over the years Mike has had the privilege of helping teams achieve success on the ice, including three State Championships as an Assistant Coach and two CSDHL titles. As a Head Coach, Mike has led his teams to the State Tournament 10 consecutive years, focusing on developing well-rounded players with strong fundamentals, a team-first mentality, and a passion for the game.

In 2020, I came full circle and returned to the Falcons as a coach. Since then, I’ve had the chance to work with players at every level from squirts to bantams in both the travel and house programs. It’s been a blast helping young players learn the game, grow their skills, and fall in love with hockey just like I did.

When I’m not at the rink, you can probably find me on the golf course—or at least trying not to three-putt.

After leaving the Ice Dogs, Jason played three years at the Varsity level for the Lake Zurich-Mundelein-Wauconda high school hockey program. Throughout his playing career, he made lasting memories and was fortunate to have had many impactful coaches, including the great former Falcons coach John R. Meo. 

In 2023, he began his coaching journey with the Falcons, having been able to work with players from a variety of age groups and levels. Jason has enjoyed every second of his time with the organization, and he believes in instilling a sense of creativity, confidence, and composure in every athlete. With fun at the forefront, he hopes that all players come to the rink with excitement all the while developing lifelong friendships, skills, and passions. 

Joe’s passion for coaching is deeply rooted in his own playing days with the Falcons, where he skated from Mini Mites through Bantam Major. Coached by current Falcons staff Tom Miller and Bob Heelan, Joe helped his teams capture three state championships and a National Championship. He went on to play three years of Varsity hockey at Glenbrook South High School, leading the Titans to two Final Four appearances.

Though early in his coaching career, Joe brings high energy, a team-first mindset, and a unique ability to connect with both players and parents. He’s known for fostering team chemistry, developing well-rounded athletes, and keeping the game fun—while never losing the competitive edge.

Joe’s ultimate goal is to spark a lifelong love for hockey in every player he coaches—creating memories and lessons that last far beyond their time on the ice.

With over 20 years of coaching experience, Dave has worked with players from Mite House to Bantam AAA Major, coaching for top programs including the Falcons Hockey Association, Team Wisconsin, Honeybaked, Dearborn Brand, and Victory Honda. He holds a USA Hockey Level 4 coaching certification.

Throughout his coaching career, Dave has mentored more than 20 players who advanced to NCAA Division I programs, five NHL draft picks, and several athletes currently competing professionally.

Dave and his wife Jen live in Deerfield with their two daughters.

Nick began his coaching journey with the Learn to Skate program through the Highland Park Park District, where he quickly discovered a passion for player development. Since then, he has made a significant impact at several respected programs, including the Chicago Young Americans, Lake Forest Winter Club (where he spent 10 years), the Vipers, and the Lakers High School Organization. He has also contributed his expertise to the renowned Turcotte Stickhandling School, honing his skills in puck control instruction and hands-on player development.

A Level 4 certified coach through USA Hockey, Nick is recognized for his strong focus on fundamentals, individual skill growth, and fostering a positive, team-oriented culture. His dedication to the game and ability to connect with players of all ages have made him a trusted and respected figure in the Illinois hockey community.

After hanging up the pro skates, Lee swapped his hockey gloves for a briefcase and became an attorney. He now runs Jacobson Legal Services LLC, proving he's just as sharp in the courtroom as he was on the forecheck.

Lee’s no stranger to the coaching scene either. Before joining the Falcons, he led mite travel teams with the Chicago Bulldogs and sharpened young players' skills as an instructor with the Ford School of Hockey, Delaney Hockey, and Robby Glanz Power Skating.

Highland Park isn’t just where Lee coaches—it’s home. His wife Samantha and her mom, Diana, run Citywoods, a beloved local store that’s been part of downtown HP since 1988. Their sons Theo (2019) and James (2021) are following in Dad’s footsteps as proud Falcons themselves.

Whether he's drawing up plays or tying skates in the locker room, Lee brings passion, knowledge, and a whole lot of hockey wisdom to the rink every day.

Now a Level 4 USA Hockey certified coach, Nick brings a deep understanding of the game and a calm, instructional coaching style that helps young players build confidence and skill. He spent the past three seasons coaching Squirts at The Winter Club of Lake Forest, where he combined team strategy with a heavy emphasis on skill development, helping players learn the fundamentals while building good habits for long-term success.

In his new role as a skills coach for the house league program, Nick works closely with Matt Ford to design and run engaging, age-appropriate training sessions for Mites, Squirts, and Peewees. His goal is to help every player—whether brand new to hockey or working toward travel teams—develop a stronger understanding of the game, grow their skills, and most importantly, fall in love with playing.

Nick believes in fostering an inclusive, encouraging environment where players feel free to take risks, try new things, and support each other. For him, the best feeling in the world is watching a player light up after mastering something they once found difficult.

Outside of coaching, Nick still plays regularly in adult leagues, tournaments, and charity events like Pucks for Autism, and he’s constantly working on improving his own game. Whether he's on the ice as a player or coach, one thing never changes: "It’s a great day for hockey." - "Badger" Bob Johnson.

Kevin was a four-year letterman and a member of the University of Michigan’s 1998 National Championship Ice Hockey Team. He also earned All-Big Ten Academic honors during his collegiate career. After graduation, he attended two NHL training camps and played two seasons of minor professional hockey before retiring to pursue a career in sports representation.

Following his playing career, Kevin earned his Juris Doctor from DePaul University College of Law in 2006. He practiced corporate and real estate law at Lyman Law in Chicago for five years before transitioning full-time into athlete representation. Since founding Magnuson Hockey Agency, Kevin has successfully negotiated numerous NHL contracts and endorsement deals for his clients.

Kevin is a former President of Special Olympics Chicago and served as co-chair of the organization's 50th Anniversary Celebration in 2018. He has proudly served on the Special Olympics Chicago Board since 2006.

He resides in Lake Forest, Illinois, with his wife Mary Clare and their son Gunnar.

Mazza spent the past three seasons (2023–2025) as head coach of the Bantam NIHL teams with the Glenview Stars, helping young players build skills, confidence, and competitive grit. Before that, he took time away from the rink to focus on raising his three daughters — his biggest and most important team to date.

Mazza’s coaching career began in 2003 as an assistant coach for the Glenview Stars Squirt Central States team. He later served as head coach of the Lake Forest High School JV team from 2004 to 2006. His playing career wrapped up in 1999 at Marian University after three prep years at Berkshire School (1989–1992) and one standout season with Stevenson High School, where the Patriots reached the final four in 1988.

Coach Mazza holds a USA Hockey Level 4 certification and is currently working toward earning his Level 5. He brings a wealth of knowledge, a lifelong love of the game, and a deep connection to the Falcons community.

Now back on familiar ice, Mazza is ready to help the next generation of Falcons soar.

After being drafted to the Atlanta Thrashers in 2003, Brett played professionally for 13 years. His first year pro he won the Willie Marshall Award as the leading goal scorer in the AHL as well as the Dudley “Red” Garrett Memorial award as rookie of the year. He played in three AHL all-star games. In 2008, Brett helped lead the Chicago Wolves to the Calder Cup championship. During his professional career, he played 30 games in the NHL with the Atlanta Thrashers, the Pittsburgh Penguins and the St. Louis Blues. He also spent three years overseas playing in Sweden and Austria, capturing two championships with EC Redbull Salzburg.

Prior to turning pro, Brett played four years at Colorado College where he was a top three Hobey Baker finalist his junior year as well as a top 10 finalist the following year. He was selected to play for the US National Program, where he helped lead the United States to their first-ever gold medals at the 2002 U-18 World Championships and 2004 U-20 World Junior Championships. 

Brett believes that the best way to help kids foster a love of the sport is to provide a fun, exciting and inclusive environment where everyone feels supported. He hopes that every kid he coaches looks forward to coming to practice and playing games.

He began his playing career at West Park and with the Lake Forest Vikings, before starring at Carmel Catholic High School, where he was voted team MVP for two consecutive seasons. After high school, he joined the Franklin Park Jets Junior Hockey program, competing at the national level and earning a spot on the radar of legendary coach Bob Johnson. Mark was subsequently recruited to play NCAA Division I hockey at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he developed under renowned goalie coach Bill Howard and helped lead the Badgers to a national championship.

One of Mark’s fondest hockey memories is playing one period of an exhibition game against the 1980 Russian Olympic Team—just three years after their historic loss in Lake Placid—and recording a shutout.

After a brief stint in the minor leagues, Mark transitioned from playing to coaching while building a professional career at Sears and Grainger. In addition to his current roles with the Falcons and the Lake Forest Scouts High School team, Mark previously coached with the Niles West Indians.

“I take pride in seeing young goalies develop to their best potential each season,” Mark says. “I look forward to continuing to support and grow our Falcons organization.”

His playing career includes time with the Chicago Young Americans, followed by selection to the U.S. National Team Development Program, where he competed with both the U-17 and U-18 teams. From there, Jon advanced to the USHL, playing for the Omaha Lancers and the Youngstown Phantoms, before heading to MSU to play NCAA Division I hockey. While at Michigan State, he was part of the Big Ten Conference Championship team.

Reflecting on his journey, Jon says, “My game, body, and mind developed into a real goaltender’s mentality, and that is something I will do my best to relay to young Falcons goalies.” He credits his development to numerous influential coaches, including Jared DeMichiel at MSU, and is excited “to pass my knowledge of goaltending onto these terrific young goalies and build relationships with each player, coach, and family.”

Along his journey, Evan played at Quinnipiac University and Northeastern, where he developed under the guidance of elite goalie coaches—Jared Waimon (Tampa Bay Lightning) at Quinnipiac and Mike Condon (Ottawa Senators) at Northeastern. These experiences helped shape his approach to the position and inspired his desire to give back to the hockey community.

“I believe good coaching involves imparting reasoning, discipline, and joy to young goaltenders,” Evan says. He is excited to share his knowledge and experience with the next generation of Falcons goalies.