About - GREATER MICHIGAN PROSPECTS

PROSPECT- [Pros-pekt] A person regarded as likely to succeed. An apparent probability of advancement, success, etc. Chance or opportunities for success. A potential or likely candidate.

Throughout my career I have been fortunately exposed to some of the best players, coaches, and training systems offered to young players today.

I am extremely passionate about coaching and the development of players. My goal is for every Greater Michigan Prospect to gain a step on the competition; due to quality competition, efficient skill development, and career guidance/ exposure.

Staff

Coach Slater

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Coach Slater serves as the Director of Greater Michigan Prospects Hockey. For 15+ Seasons the Greater Michigan Prospects have been developing and showcasing Michigan's High School Hockey Stars along with Michigan's Youth Prospects.

Coach Slater is a graduate of Western Michigan University holding a BA in Social Science. Coach Slater has a strong interest and background in the study of Human Performance and enjoys helping student athletes strive toward their goals.

Coach Slater is a certified personal trainer through the International Sports Science Association. The ISSA is a historic nationally recognized authority on the science of sport performance. Coach Slater combines the areas of sports science and hockey development experience to help players become the best version of themselves.

Coach Slater has 25+ years of coaching experience including Collegiate, Junior A, AAA, and High School. Coach Slater is Level 5 USA Hockey Coach and believes in a "One Day Better Every Day" coaching philosophy.

A 2004 East Coast Hockey League Champion as a member of the Idaho Steelheads, Chris was selected to the ECHL all-star team in 2001 and attended the Detroit Red Wings training camp later that same year. During his 7-year professional career, “Slats” also had stops in the American Hockey League and British Super League. A standout college defenseman at Michigan State University, the two time United States Olympic Festival participant was voted to the CCHA all-tournament team in 1995. During his time at Michigan State Slater was honorable mention for the CCHA all-rookie team and a three year pre-season All-American candidate in the American Hockey Coaches Association poll.

Before joining the college, ranks Chris was a 3-year veteran for the Kalamazoo Jr. K-Wings member of the North American Hockey League which was then a Tier 1 Junior A league. During his time with the K-Wings Slater was a 2 time Robertson Cup Champion, 2 time 1st team All-Star, and Defenseman of the year. During this time Coach Slater also represented the United States on the National 16 and 17 teams; competing in many international competitions worldwide.

Coach Cronan

Brian Cronan is an experienced hockey coach with a diverse background in both international and North American hockey. Over the years, he has honed his coaching expertise in multiple competitive environments.

With a significant tenure in the NAHL, Brian has coached many players who have gone on to play at higher levels, including the NCAA and professional hockey. His focus in the NAHL is on developing young athletes to reach their full potential, instilling strong work ethics, tactical awareness, and leadership qualities that are critical for success in the junior ranks.

In addition to his work in higher-level leagues, Brian has also coached many prestigious AAA hockey teams, providing foundational coaching for players in their formative years. His ability to balance skill development with team-oriented play has made him a sought-after coach for high-level youth programs. He believes in fostering a positive and competitive environment where players can thrive and enjoy the game.

Brian's coaching philosophy revolves around developing well-rounded athletes who excel both on the ice and in life. He focuses on building skills, understanding the game at a tactical level, and fostering teamwork and leadership qualities. Brian values a strong work ethic, discipline, and mental toughness, encouraging players to push through challenges and continuously strive to improve.

With a wealth of experience in various hockey systems and competitive levels, Coach Cronan has proven himself as a versatile and effective coach. Whether working with elite NCAA prospects, junior players in the NAHL, or developing talent at the AAA level, Brian’s ability to connect with players and instill the values of hard work, perseverance, and skill development has been key to his success as a coach.

Coach Gagnon

Current Head Coach South Lyon Unified High School. Former Head Coach Milford Varsity High School Hockey since 2016. Former Assistant Coach for Team Michigan High School program. Previously Head Coach at his alma mater Livonia Franklin since 2012. 2010 Assistant Coach CSHL Junior B Michigan Ice Dogs. Assistant Coach Novi High School Varsity Hockey 2004-2009. MHSHCA D2 Head Coach of the Year 2014. Coach Meijer State Games Champions Team Metro West 2015, 2016. Founder/goaltender State Utility Detroit Raters 1996, 2000, 2003, 2010 USA Hockey Senior Open National Champions.

Coach Bond

Coach Jeff Bond is a long time Michigan AAA coach. A former NCAA D1 player at Western Michigan University; coach Bond has over 25 years experience with some of the top AAA organizations throughout Michigan. Jeff has numerous years coaching experience at the Jr. A level as well. Coach Bond enjoys teaching hockey fundamentals and theories to Greater Michigan Prospect players of all ages.

Coach Llewellyn

Coach Tristin Llewellyn is a former NCAA D1 player at the University of Michigan who went on to play professional hockey in the ECHL. Tristin has experience coaching AAA hockey in many of Michigan's top organizations and currently owns a personal fitness training company specializing in scientific EMS training. Coach Llewellyn coaches the Greater Michigan Prospects teams and instructs at the Prospects Camps.