TPH Academy Huntsville Solidifies Leadership as Martin Kubaliak Advances to Director

Huntsville, AL — Martin Kubaliak’s journey in hockey spans from the rinks of Slovakia to the forefront of player development in Huntsville. With a decade-long professional playing career and years of coaching experience, he has dedicated himself to growing the game and mentoring the next generation. Now, as he assumes the role of Director and Head of Hockey at TPH Academy Huntsville, Martin is poised to continue to lead student-athletes toward great achievement in a program known for its commitment to excellence and growth.

Martin Kubaliak Medicine Hat Tigers Card

A native of Zvolen, Slovakia, Kubaliak’s hockey journey includes time in the WHL with the Medicine Hat Tigers, an invite to Columbus Blue Jackets training camp, and pro stints in the ECHL, CHL, and SPHL. In 2019, Martin supported the launch of TPH Academy Huntsville, and he hasn’t looked back since.

That first year, TPH Academy Huntsville welcomed 14 student-athletes across hockey, cheerleading, and tennis. Today, the Academy proudly supports over 30 student-athletes annually, offering a cutting-edge blended learning environment where young athletes can Study, Train, and Play at a high level. Kubaliak’s leadership has been key in shaping a culture of discipline, growth, and trust. His work has also fueled the growth of the Northern Alabama Hockey Association (NAHA), which now serves more than 580 players across its house and travel programs, and accepts over 600 registrations each year for its “Learn to Play” program.

Kubaliak’s impact is deeply personal. He’s watched firsthand how TPH’s mission shapes student-athletes, most notably through his own daughter, Marlie, a standout in the Huntsville Class of 2027 and a 2024-2025 TPH Academy Impact Player of the Year. Her growth both academically and athletically has been a powerful reminder of the program’s potential.

“I am incredibly honored to step into the role of Director and Head of Hockey at TPH Huntsville,” shared Kubaliak. “This program has meant a great deal to me over the years—not just professionally, but personally. I’ve seen how it grows and develops student-athletes, including my own daughter. I’m excited to continue building on that foundation and creating more opportunities for young people to thrive both on and off the ice.”

Huntsville Ice Sports Center

Kubaliak’s promotion comes at a time of exciting momentum for the Huntsville hockey community. The City recently approved a $44.6 million expansion of its Ice Sports Center, doubling the size of the current facility and adding a new arena, curling lanes, expanded locker rooms, and more. The project is expected to be completed by early 2027 and will significantly enhance opportunities for youth, adult, and competitive ice sports.

“This expansion is a game-changer,” Kubaliak added. “It’s going to open the doors for more student-athletes to fall in love with the game and chase big goals. Combine that with the support, structure, and daily training environment we offer at TPH, and this becomes such a dynamic place to develop both academically and athletically.”

TPH Vice President of Operations Brett Blatchford praised Kubaliak’s unwavering dedication and vision. “Martin has been an integral part of TPH Huntsville’s growth since day one,” said Blatchford. “He embodies what it means to lead with purpose. His coaching, mentorship, and genuine care for student-athletes—paired with his own family’s story—make him the perfect person to lead us forward. His passion is contagious, and his impact is already being felt across the Huntsville hockey community.”

As TPH Huntsville prepares for its next chapter, there’s never been a better time for motivated student-athletes to supercharge their development. With Martin Kubaliak at the helm, a growing campus, and a city investing in the future of ice sports, the opportunity to train, grow, and thrive has never been greater. To learn more about the TPH Huntsville experience, visit tphacademy.com/huntsville. Ready to take the next step? Submit your application for the 2025-2026 school year here, or reach out to Martin directly at mkubaliak@tphacademy.com.

About TPH Academy:

TPH Academy is an academy-style, focused environment where dedicated student-athletes study, train, and play at their highest potential. TPH Academy’s core purpose is to lead the world in the holistic development of student-athletes, advancing – in and beyond the game – the next generation of impact players. For more information about TPH Academy, please visit tphacademy.com and check out the 2023-2024 TPH Academy Impact Report.