Coaching Staff

I’ve spent over 25 years coaching hockey, and I’ve learned that a coach’s true value comes from a deep understanding of the game and a commitment to developing players both on and off the ice. While my playing experience laid the foundation for my coaching career, my passion lies in the process—helping young athletes turn their weaknesses into strengths.

My Background

I played DIII NCAA hockey at St. Norbert College. After that, I continued playing with a team of lifelong friends, winning a couple of national championships. This experience of competing with and for your school/friends is a core value we work to ingrain into the culture of Carmel Catholic Hockey.

My coaching journey began in 2001. My first season as a head squirt coach ended with a state championship, but the real reward was watching my team improve through dedicated practice and skill development. I enjoyed 16 seasons with the Ice Dogs before joining Carmel Catholic High School ten years ago.

Working with high school athletes has been incredibly rewarding. I love teaching them how to think the game, execute plays at high speed, and compete with full effort. It's a privilege to watch them mature and play a small part in their lives during such an impactful time.

Our Philosophy at Carmel Catholic Hockey

At Carmel, we believe that belonging comes first. We see, appreciate, and cultivate the unique gifts each player brings to our program. While we value talent, our culture is built on effort, grit, and the ability to connect with one another. We know these are the qualities that will triumph in life, far beyond any win or loss.

If this philosophy resonates with you, please reach out to learn more about our program.

Scott McCandless grew up in Lake County playing youth hockey for the Falcons and then on to 4 years of Varsity hockey for Libertyville High School where he was a captain his Junior and Senior year. After his high school career, Scott attended Northern Michigan University where he played on their ACHA Division II team, earning the roll of Assistant Captain. 

After graduating, Scott continued his hockey career as an assistant coach with PJ in 2009 for the Ice dogs. Over the past 13 years, Scott has coached mites through Varsity HS hockey. Scott currently teaches physical education for Round Lake School District, where he has been for the past 6 years. 

I grew up in Burlington, Ontario, Canada and started playing hockey at the age of four. After playing through high school and college I landed in the beer leagues like so many others. It was here I really understood my passion for the sport. Winning games and tournaments was great, but it was playing with my friends and how we pushed each other to be better that kept me coming back. 

After moving to the Chicago area in 2005, I got an opportunity to start coaching hockey and began appreciating the game at a new level. While at the Ice Dogs, I coached a core group of kids over six seasons with two other coaches. We built a squad that won a NIHL championship, Central States championship, Presidents trophies and countless tournaments. Although we had a great group of athletes, it was the camaraderie amongst teammates and parents that made this group so special.

Over my 15+ years of coaching I’ve learned that culture is the most important element in achieving greatness. An environment built on personal accountability, trust and dedication not only develops great hockey players but great people. 

I am grateful for the opportunity to continue coaching at Carmel and look forward to the upcoming season.

Greg grew up in Mequon, WI and found himself on hockey skates at the age of 4. Greg played his youth hockey for Milwaukee Winter Club. With most his high school friends staying local and going to UW-Madison or other UW schools, Greg chose, instead to go south and attended Lake Forest College. He played D3 NCAA hockey at LFC. It was a great experience and a ton of fun; playing teams like Notre Dame, Kent State University, and he even traveling to Alaska (in the middle of December!) to play against University of Alaska-Fairbanks. After college, Greg settled down in Lake Zurich and started coaching for the Ice Dogs; coaching at different levels, mite through bantam for 8+ years.