Flames High Performance Program (HPP)
The Flames High Performance Program (HPP) is aimed for hockey players who have demonstrated exceptional skill and hockey IQ and who aspire to compete at the highest levels for their ages and pursue future opportunities in provincial, national, and collegiate hockey.
Our High-Performance Program (HPP) will use a collaborative approach to create a development pipeline for our athletes, starting with the basics and moving up to the junior or university level.
2024-2025 HPP Coaches:
The Flames HPP includes:
- HP1 Certified Coaches (or in progress)
- Mental performance training
- Comprehensive off-ice development training
- Physical training and monitoring
- An active mentorship and coach education program
- Video analysis
- Athletes participate in a highly structured affiliation program in which HPP athletes visit younger or lower-level teams
- HPP athletes will have numerous opportunities to practice or play with higher-level teams. For example, U15s at U18 practices/games
- HPP athletes will be given numerous opportunities to practice with or play with higher-level teams. U15s, for example, at U18 practices and games
- Preparation for OWHA U15 and U18 High Performance Camps, National Team Canada Camps, NCAA and U Sports
- Support and information workshops from postsecondary advisors (U15 +)
About the Coaches
Derek McGrath - U13 AA Coach
Derek McGrath, our dedicated U13 AA Coach with a passion for molding young athletes on and off the ice. With over 5 years as an Elite Skills Development Trainer, Derek brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our High-Performance Program. Growing up playing with local hockey teams, including AAA Clarington Toros, Jr C Port Perry Mojacks, Jr A Bowmanville Eagles, and Sr AAA Whitby Dunlops, Derek's journey from player to coach adds a unique perspective to his coaching style. His commitment to teamwork, skill development, and the thrill of the game will undoubtedly inspire our U13 AA team to reach new heights. Get ready for an exciting season of growth and success under Coach Derek's guidance! Welcome back, Coach Derek!
Charlea Pederson - U15 AA Head Coach
Charlea Pederson grew up in Tyrone, ON, within the Clarington Region, and played for the Clarington Flames from 2004 to 2014, excelling at various levels,many AA's Flames teams. She continued her career with the Durham West Junior Lightning (U22 AA) from 2014-2017 and later committed to St. Lawrence University, where she played NCAA D1 hockey from 2017-2021. After her collegiate career, Charlea played professionally for the Lakers Kärnten in Villach, Austria, in the EWHL from 2021-2023. Charlea brings valuable experience and leadership to the coaching staff. We are excited about the positive impact Charlea will have on our U15 AA team and the broader development of female players in our organization. Welcome, Coach Charlea !
Megan Arnott - U18 AA Head Coach
Introducing Megan Arnott, our esteemed U18 AA Head Coach, whose remarkable journey from Flames' U18AA Assistant Captain to junior hockey with Leaside and OUA representation at Laurentian University speaks volumes about her commitment, leadership, and passion for the sport. With two years of coaching experience as an Assistant Coach for the Clarington Flames U18AA team, Megan's coaching philosophy aligns seamlessly with our organization's values. Her dedication to both athletic and personal growth, combined with her non-parent status, makes her an ideal candidate for the Head Coach position. We are confident that Megan's leadership will have a positive and lasting impact on the development and success of our U18 AA team. Welcome to the role, Coach Megan!