2025-2026 VMHA Rep Program

U11A1 and U18A1 Head Coach - Jason Mann

We're excited to welcome Jason back for his 9th season as Head Coach of our U18 A1 team, and for his first season leading our U11 A1 group. Jason brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for player development. Before joining VMHA, he coached at the North Shore Winter Club and led a successful AAA spring program that featured players who have gone on to compete in the WHL, BCHL, and other junior leagues. Over the years, Jason has collaborated with numerous top development coaches, including VMHA's Director of Hockey Operations Matt Brown, as well as Jason Krog, Darcy Zajac, Cole Todd, Mats Lindgren, and Karen Koss. Jason's coaching philosophy is rooted in building a strong team culture that supports individual growth. In addition to his coaching duties, he serves as a scout for the Port Moody Panthers of the Pacific Junior Hockey League. Outside the rink, Jason enjoys spending time with his family and travelling the world to compete in poker tournaments.

U11A2 Head Coaches - Jason Smith and Steve Kwok

Jason brings nearly 30 years of coaching experience to the bench and has a deep understanding of the game from both sides of the puck—as a goaltender and a skater. His versatile playing background allows him to connect with players in all positions and provide well-rounded instruction on both individual skills and team concepts. Jason believes in promoting a high-tempo, hard-working style of play, while ensuring that players are constantly developing their skills, confidence, and understanding of the game. He is detail-oriented and highly organized, creating structured practices that maximize development and prepare players to compete at a high level. Jason's coaching philosophy is rooted in fostering a positive environment where effort, accountability, and teamwork are emphasized. His passion for player development and commitment to building strong hockey habits make him an excellent fit to lead our U11 A2 program.

Steve brings over 20 years of experience coaching minor hockey and has long been an advocate for fun, inclusive, and safe hockey environments. His coaching philosophy emphasizes not only developing strong hockey skills, but also helping young athletes grow into respectful, resilient, and confident individuals. Well-organized and team-focused, Steve is dedicated to creating a positive and structured environment where players are encouraged to work hard, support each other, and enjoy the game. He believes that while building good hockey players is important, developing better people is the true goal. Steve's enthusiasm and commitment to player development make him a strong asset to our U11 A2 coaching staff.

U13A1 Head Coach - Brian Busenius

VMHA is proud to welcome Brian as Head Coach of our U13 A1 team for the upcoming season—his first year in this role with the association. Brian brings a high-performance playing background and a wealth of coaching experience. A graduate of the Vancouver Thunderbirds' AAA program, he went on to play junior hockey with the Golden Rockets of the KIJHL. His passion for teaching the game began early, running hockey camps and providing private instruction at UBC and the Richmond Olympic Oval. Over the past decade, Brian has held head coaching positions at both the U13 and U15 levels with Richmond Minor and the Vancouver Thunderbirds. He has also contributed significantly to grassroots development, leading skill sessions for U6 and U7 players. Most recently, he was behind the bench for VMHA's U13 A2 team, where he earned praise for his structured, player-focused approach. Brian is known for building competitive, disciplined teams that prioritize development, teamwork, and accountability. With his experience, leadership, and commitment to player growth, VMHA families can look forward to an exciting and rewarding season.

U13A2 Head Coach

To be announced

U15A1 Head Coach - Jim Russell

Returning for his eleventh year at VMHA, Jim is consistently rated by parents and players as one of the associations top coaches, highly valued for his experience and accreditation as a Development 1 certified and High Performance 1 trained coach. With multiple tournament golds, banners, flight championships, two VMHA Rep Team of the Year awards, and recent appearance in the U15 Tier 2 Final Four, Jim's teams have enjoyed success both on and off the ice. Known for his structured, competitive, and positive coaching style, Jim emphasizes discipline, accountability, and team culture. His players not only grow as athletes, but also as individuals, with a strong focus on giving back to the community and building life skills through the game. Jim will reprise his role as the U15 A1 Head Coach for the 2025-26 season, bringing his trademark energy, leadership, and commitment to development.

U15A2 Head Coach - Jim Schuck

Jim Schuck brings over 32 years of coaching experience across all age groups throughout the Lower Mainland. He now brings that wealth of knowledge and leadership to VMHA's U15 A2 team as Head Coach for the 2025–26 season. Jim believes that minor hockey is about more than just skills and systems—it's an opportunity to teach life lessons such as discipline, sportsmanship, and responsibility, while ensuring players enjoy the game and grow as individuals. His coaching resume includes leading Team BC for the Deaf and contributing to the North Shore Winter Club's development programs over the past two seasons. With his experience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to player growth, Jim is ready to inspire the next generation of athletes and make a lasting impact within the VMHA community.