Marian Gmitter – Hockey Coach BioAs a coach, I am deeply competitive and committed to winning, while also taking immense pride in being a "player's coach." I believe that success stems from creating and fostering the best possible team environment, integrating skill, strategy, and motivation. My coaching abilities have been recognized by Hockey Alberta, and I am honored to have been entrusted with numerous provincial-level projects. These opportunities have allowed me to collaborate with exceptional coaches, players, and teams, yielding excellent results.
Hockey is a complex and fascinating game, and I immerse myself in every aspect—whether on the ice as a player or coach, or behind the bench strategizing. My role involves blending coaching, management, and talent to develop an environment that helps players succeed. Currently, I dedicate most of my time to coaching, training, and motivating players and volunteers across various age levels. I am excited about the 2025/2026 season, where I will be working with the Wheatland Athletic Association U13AAA development group as Head Coach, mentoring players who share my passion for the game and creating a positive learning environment.
I began my hockey journey playing in Slovakia's premier league at age 18 before moving to Canada to participate in the Viking Cup in Camrose. My coaching accolades include serving as a WHL Combine Instructor, assistant coach of the Calgary Mustangs (AJHL), leading teams in the Alberta Cup, U-16 Alberta Top 80 Prospects, Alberta Winter Games, Alberta Prospects Cup, and coaching Midget AA, AAA, and U13AAA teams. Additionally, I have been a scout for the Tri City Americans of the WHL.
Tomi has a long history in hockey as both a player and coach, inspired by his father, a coach himself. His goal is to provide young players with the same joy and learning he experienced. Tomi was named the CSSHL Student Athlete of the Year in 2018 while training at HDC Slovakia. His proudest achievements are the positive impact he has had on players and being awarded the Wayne Gretzky Award.
Tomi is thrilled to join the 2025/2026 Wheatland Athletic Association U13 AAA as Associate Coach and is confident that his contribution will significantly enhance the program's development. Tomi played club hockey in Slovakia before moving to Canada, where he played AA/AAA hockey in the AEHL and CCSHL. He has completed the Alberta Hockey Future Coaches Program and has been an on-ice instructor at several hockey camps, as well as coaching U13 AAA within the HSL.
The Wheatland Athletic Association is excited to welcome Marian and Tomi to the family.
