Our Instructors


Chris Fuss

Chris is a founding partner of on-ice instruction with Thrive Hockey, a role he began over 18 years ago, and is the owner of Method Hockey, a Calgary-based consulting company dedicated to player and coach development.

A former NCAA athlete, Chris enjoyed an accomplished collegiate career, making three consecutive Frozen Four appearances, capturing a national championship, and serving as team captain during his four seasons.

Since transitioning from player to coach, Chris has built a reputation as a trusted development instructor and mentor. As an Associate Coach with the Okotoks Oilers (AJHL), he helped guide the organization to its first division championship. During his time with the team, 40 players advanced to NCAA and CIS programs, with four going on to be selected in the NHL Draft.

Chris has also worked extensively in minor hockey, mentoring more than 300 teams over the past decade. His experience spans all levels, from Initiation to Midget, where he focuses on developing both athletes and coaches through a positive, structured, and growth-oriented approach.

 

Jay Adamson

Jay Adamson is a former SJHL player with the Kindersley Klippers and competed at the Midget AAA level in Saskatchewan. He brings a strong foundation in player development through his work as a Thrive Hockey instructor.

In addition to his on-ice experience, Jay is the Vice Principal at Lacombe Composite High School, where he applies a high-performance approach to leadership and athlete development. He holds degrees in Physical Education and Education, a Master’s of Science in Education, and is a Canadian Certified Athletic Director.

 

Joel Topping

Joel Topping developed through the Red Deer Minor Hockey system before advancing to the WHL, where he played four seasons with the Lethbridge Hurricanes. He continued his career at the University of Alberta as a member of the Golden Bears program.

Off the ice, Joel is an educator at Hunting Hills High School, where he teaches mathematics and brings a structured, high-performance approach to both academics and athlete development.

 

Randy Gehring

Randy Gehring brings over 30 years of experience coaching minor hockey at all levels. He is entering his eighth season with Thrive Hockey and has spent six seasons coaching with the Red Deer Rustlers.

Randy previously operated his own hockey school, “The Next Shift,” and continues to contribute as an instructor and coach mentor, supporting athlete and coach development across all levels.

 

Jacksyn Goodall

Jacksyn Goodall developed through competitive hockey in Sylvan Lake and Red Deer before attending Mount Royal University, where he earned his teaching degree.

He currently teaches Grades 8 and 9 Math and Science and brings a strong development-focused approach to both the classroom and the ice. Jacksyn began with Thrive Hockey over 10 years ago as a junior coach and returns as a head instructor for the U18 August camps.

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