About FSH
First Star Hockey is an elite hockey school based out of Oakville, Ontario, working with players of all ages & skill levels, though specializing in rep players from U10 and older. Unlike many other hockey schools around, we focus not only on skating & skill teachings from Hockey Canada's Player Development Guidelines, but also focus on Hockey IQ development - teaching players how to think the game, and play without the puck just as well as they play with the puck.
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Our approach is to develop the proper foundation through consistent teaching & correction of fundamental skills, before challenging our players to build off those skills and develop a more advanced skill-set through a combination of Hockey Canada's Long-Term Development Plan as well as European skill teachings. Once we have developed the proper foundation, we can then begin to apply those skills into game-scenario drills & Hockey IQ teachings in order to improve our game performance.
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The sport of Hockey is a "marathon, not a sprint" - at FSH, we understand that, and recognize the "big picture" - skills must be developed and performed properly at the young ages, and then the game must be taught to our athletes in order for them to have continued success and excel at the older ages.
Our Story
Mike DeRenzis started First Star Hockey in 2009 at the age of 18. While captain of his Junior A team, and planning to head to a NCAA D1 scholarship the following season, Mike was diagnosed with a career-ending heart condition. He then joined as the assistant coach with his Junior team the remainder of that season, and also joined the U11 Oakville Rangers staff, opening the door into the world of skill development and coaching.
Over the past 15+ years now, Mike and the First Star Hockey staff have built a stellar reputation as coaches and mentors, guiding numerous hockey athletes to achieve remarkable success. Their expertise and dedication have helped their players advance to the next level - from players climbing the rep levels in minor hockey, to getting drafted to the OHL and obtaining NCAA scholarships, and even a few getting drafted to the NHL. First Star Hockey's approach to training focuses on developing both the physical and mental aspects of the game, instilling discipline, resilience, and a strong work ethic in their athletes. Their ability to recognize potential and nurture it has led to a track record of players reaching the highest levels of competition. First Star's impact on the careers of those they've coached is a testament to their knowledge, commitment, and passion for shaping the next generation of hockey talent.