Coaching Staff

Ian Skacan is a passionate and dedicated head coach hailing from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His love for hockey was ignited at the young age of 7, playing the sport at a high level throughout high school and college. Ian's extensive experience on the ice has not only honed his skills but also instilled in him a deep understanding of the game.

Having achieved a Level 4 certification from USA Hockey, Ian's coaching prowess is well-recognized and highly regarded. With a track record of coaching high school hockey for five years, he has proven his ability to lead and develop young players both on and off the ice.

Throughout his coaching journey, Ian has encountered a diverse range of teams, from championship contenders to those undergoing rebuilds. His adaptability and determination have allowed him to thrive in all situations, bringing out the best in his players and fostering a sense of camaraderie within the team.

Now, as the head coach of Holy Name Ice Hockey, Ian is enthusiastic about revitalizing the program to its former glory. His drive to elevate the team to the heights it once achieved is matched only by his commitment to the development and success of each player under his guidance. 

Proud Alumnus, Class of 2007

Justin Zavatchen, a dedicated alumnus of Holy Name High School, Class of 2007, brings a wealth of hockey experience to his role as assistant ice hockey coach. Having coached at all levels, from mites to high school, Justin's passion for the sport has left an indelible mark on the players he's mentored.

Justin's own hockey journey is nothing short of inspirational. As a player, he hoisted the Baron Cup championship, and later, as a collegiate athlete, he donned the colors of the University of Akron's Division 2 club hockey team. His playing career culminated in an illustrious run to the International Silver Sticks Tournament in Niagara Falls as a coach, a testament to his ability to nurture and develop young talents.

His coaching philosophy is succinct yet profound: he seeks to work with kids who are coachable, eager to learn, and committed to improving with each passing day. His dedication to player development extends beyond the rink, instilling important life skills that extend into all aspects of life.

What sets Justin apart is his intimate connection to Holy Name High School's hockey program. He was part of the original, inaugural season in 2003-2004 when Holy Name Ice Hockey was in its infancy. Over his four-year varsity tenure, Justin was a driving force in transforming the program from humble beginnings into the thriving powerhouse it is today.

Justin Zavatchen's unwavering commitment to Holy Name High School, coupled with his rich hockey background and devotion to player growth, positions him as a cornerstone of the Holy Name hockey community. His journey from a pioneering player to a dedicated coach reflects his love for the game and his alma mater, making him an invaluable asset to the team and the school.

John grew up in Western New York playing youth hockey. He played club hockey at the US Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. John began coaching hockey in 2010 and has progressed to level 5 in the USA Hockey coaching program. He has extensive experience leading and training both individuals and groups. He is a retired Navy Commander (O5) and has also coached soccer. John has over 50 years of experience playing hockey, and still plays recreationally.

Coach Laura is a 2004 Graduate of Mount Union, where she majored in Athletic Training with minors in Exercise Science & Health, as well as played collegiate volleyball. She has over 10 Certifications- from USA Weightlifting to Strongman to Pose Running to The Psychology of Coaching- plus 20 years of coaching experience-, from High School & Rec league athletics, to Personal Training, to Corporate Wellness, to group fitness training, to youth Sports Performance, to High School Strength & Conditioning. Coach Laura was the Strength & Conditioning Coach for the Medina Hockey Club from 2013-2022, & owned her own Sports Performance Facility (Ubuntu Athletics) from May 2015 through December 2022 where she ran weekly training sessions for athletes from various sport backgrounds (hockey, baseball, rugby, wrestling, lacrosse, football, swimming, volleyball, & softball), as well as team workshops for high school & youth hockey, volleyball & cheerleading programs. Most recently, she became an Exercise Physiologist for Summa Health in 2020, was the Wadsworth High School Strength & Conditioning Coach from January 2020 until July 2023, & now holds the same coaching title at Rittman High School. Coach Laura prides herself in building well-rounded athletes by training all 12 domains of physical fitness (strength, cardiovascular stamina, muscular endurance, speed, power, agility, balance, accuracy, coordination, reaction time, flexibility,& body composition), while also encouraging mindset management & strong work ethic. She has a passion for seeing "everyday athletes" push out of their comfort zones & excel beyond expectations. 

Proud Alumnus, class of 2011.

Justin Ross is a Holy Name Ice Hockey Alumni, graduating in 2011. Justin was a defenseman for the Green Wave from 2007 to 2011. After Justin’s senior year, he played for Team Ohio, and then was an assistant coach for Holy Names JV hockey team in 2012. 

Justin has played hockey locally his entire hockey career, and continues to play regularly today. 

Justin has quite a bit of hockey experience in coaching and was also a scout for the Oswego Stampede in the NA3HL. 

Justin is very passionate when it comes to the Holy Name Ice Hockey program, and is very excited to get to work!