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 2011

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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 Curtin 2012

Coach Scot Curtin, owner of Scot Curtin Skating & Skills, is a former Detroit Catholic Central State Champion and the 1997 Michigan Mr. Hockey recipient. Following his high school success, he played at Middlebury College, where he became a two-time NCAA D3 National Champion. Coach Curtin also brings valuable NCAA coaching experience and has dedicated numerous years to developing hockey players of all ages, sharing his expertise and passion for the game.

Coach Bond 2013

Coach Jeff Bond is a long time Michigan AAA coach. A former NCAA D1 player at Western Michigan University, Coach Bond brings over 25 years of experience working with top AAA organizations throughout Michigan. He has also spent numerous years coaching at the Jr. A level, further honing his skills and knowledge of the game. Coach Bond enjoys teaching hockey fundamentals and theories to Greater Michigan Prospect players of all ages, fostering both their technical abilities and passion for the sport.

Coach Crespi 2014

Jake Crespi is the 2017 Michigan Mr. Hockey award winner and a State Champion with Brighton High School Hockey. Following his successful high school career, Jake spent two seasons in the USHL as an Assistant Captain with the Tri-City Storm. He then played four seasons of Division 1 Hockey at Michigan Tech University, where he also served as an instructor at the MTU hockey schools for five summers. Currently, Jake is competing in his third professional European hockey season, playing in Hungary and Italy.

Coach Vail 2015

Chris Vail is a former professional and NCAA Division I ice hockey player known for his competitive drive, leadership, and relentless work ethic. Renowned for his ability to inspire teammates and his commitment both on and off the ice, Chris set a standard of excellence that left a lasting impact throughout his playing career.

A four-year letter winner at Wayne State University, Chris played under legendary head coach Bill Wilkinson and was a key contributor during one of the most successful eras in program history. Throughout his collegiate career, he consistently delivered in high-pressure situations, demonstrating poise and determination that helped elevate the team. During his tenure, the Warriors captured three consecutive conference championships and earned the school’s first—and only—NCAA Frozen Four tournament appearance.

Prior to college, Chris played for the Vernon Vipers of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL), where he quickly established himself as a dynamic and reliable forward. At the prep level, Chris starred for Lawrence Academy (ISL) in Groton, Massachusetts, leading the Spartans to three consecutive ISL Championships and three New England Prep Tournament appearances. As a senior, he earned First Team All–New England honors and was named the Hockey Night in Boston “Best Pro Prospect,” underscoring his talent and potential at a young age.

Coach Gagnon H. S.

Currently serving as the Head Coach for South Lyon Unified High School, he brings a wealth of coaching experience and a proven track record of success to the program. Previously, he was the Head Coach for Milford Varsity High School Hockey, a role he held since 2016, and also served as an Assistant Coach for the prestigious Team Michigan High School program. Earlier in his career, he was the Head Coach at his alma mater, Livonia Franklin, beginning in 2012, and an Assistant Coach for the CSHL Junior B Michigan Ice Dogs in 2010. From 2004 to 2009, he contributed as an Assistant Coach for Novi High School Varsity Hockey.

His coaching excellence was recognized in 2014 when he was named MHSHCA Division 2 Head Coach of the Year. He also led Team Metro West to victory as the Coach of the Meijer State Games Champions in both 2015 and 2016. As a founder and goaltender for the State Utility Detroit Raters, he was instrumental in securing USA Hockey Senior Open National Championships in 1996, 2000, 2003, and 2010.