Kevin Shand to Build and Lead Windy City Storm as Director of Player Development and 18U Coach
Palatine, IL – The Windy City Storm, in partnership with Total Package Hockey (TPH), is proud to announce the appointment of Kevin Shand as the program’s Director of Player Development and Head Coach of the 18U team. Shand spent the 2024-2025 season as Skills Director and 18U Head Coach at Elite Hockey Academy, leading a successful turnaround by focusing on what matters most: the growth of each individual player. Under his leadership, the 18U team posted a 22-11-5 record, representing a significant improvement from the previous year. More importantly, his player-first approach, both on and off the ice, helped set the stage for advancement. As of today, 12 players from that group have been drafted or tendered to the Junior A level, a reflection of the support and structure Shand provided throughout the season.
Before joining Elite Hockey Academy, Shand spent four seasons as Head Coach of the Milwaukee Jr. Admirals, earning a strong reputation for developing high-character, high-performing athletes. He also serves as a scout for the Green Bay Gamblers (USHL) and, prior to joining TPH and the Storm, was a Head Instructor with NAR Hockey. As a player, Shand competed in the NAHL, USHL, and NCAA Division III, and is a graduate of the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE).
“Kevin has lived the journey—as a player, a scout, and now a coach,” shared Mark Jalcovik, President and Owner of the Windy City Storm. “He brings a well-rounded approach to development that connects individual growth to team success. We’re excited to have a leader who not only knows what it takes but is passionate about helping players reach their potential.”
In his expanded role, Shand will continue leading the 18U team while also guiding the Storm’s overall player development strategy. His focus will include supporting individual skill progressions, strengthening game habits, and reinforcing team concepts across all age levels, ensuring a consistent and connected developmental experience throughout the program.
Shand’s appointment reflects the Storm’s long-term commitment to player growth through its connection with Windy City Performance Academy Powered by TPH. The Academy offers student-athletes a unique blend of flexible academics and elite hockey training, designed to support their holistic development and prepare them for the next level in hockey, both on and off the ice. Through TPH’s association management model, Windy City Storm continues to elevate its operations, culture, and athlete experience.
To learn more about the Windy City Storm and its commitment to player development, visit windycitystorm.com. Families interested in combining high-level academics with elite hockey training are encouraged to explore the Windy City Performance Academy Powered by TPH and apply at tphacademy.com/powered-by-tph/windy-city-storm-academy. To connect directly, Kevin Shand can be reached at kshand@tphacademy.com.
About Total Package Hockey:
Founded in 2001, TPH services more than 10,000 student-athletes annually through its Academy model, elite-level programming, and operational management services for youth hockey organizations. TPH’s Association Management platform exists to streamline operations and provide organizations like Windy City Storm with the tools, oversight, and expertise to reach their highest potential.
About Windy City Storm:
The Windy City Storm is recognized as one of the premier Tier 1 youth hockey organizations in the United States, known for its commitment to excellence, player development, and advancement. The organization prides itself on its player development pathway, which provides players with opportunities for advancement and growth within.
