Meet Our Coaches
At Elevate365, our staff brings together elite playing experience, proven coaching expertise, and a shared passion for developing athletes the right way. Our coaches have competed at the highest levels of the game, with backgrounds spanning the NHL, AHL, ECHL, and NCAA Division I hockey, providing firsthand knowledge of what it takes to succeed at every stage of the hockey journey.
With over 40 years of combined coaching experience, our staff has worked with athletes from youth hockey through the college level, helping players build strong foundations, refine their skills, and prepare for the demands of high performance competition. Our diverse experience allows us to meet players where they are and guide them forward with clarity, purpose, and consistency.
While our backgrounds are varied, our mission is shared: to provide every athlete with an exceptional experience at Elevate365. We are committed to creating a challenging, supportive, and enjoyable environment where players can grow, stay motivated, and reach their full potential, both on the ice and in life.
Clay Wilson
FOUNDER/COACH
NHL
Brandon Marino
Founder/Coach
AHL
Chris Mckelvie
Lead Coach
AHL
Canon Pieper
Mental Performance coach
ECHL
Clay Wilson is a former professional defenseman and experienced coach whose career spans North America and Europe. A Minnesota native, he developed through the Minnesota hockey system before playing NCAA Division I hockey at Michigan Technological University. Clay went on to compete professionally in the NHL, AHL, and internationally in elite European leagues, including the KHL, gaining valuable experience across multiple systems and styles of play.
As a player, Clay was known for his consistency, hockey IQ, and composure under pressure, traits that now define his coaching approach. He believes in developing players through strong fundamentals, smart decision making, and trust in the process. As a coach, Clay is passionate about helping athletes grow both on and off the ice, building confident, resilient players who understand that long-term success comes from daily commitment, discipline, and a genuine love for the game.
Brandon Marino enjoyed a distinguished playing career from collegiate hockey at Bemidji State University to playing professionally in the AHL, ECHL, and internationally in Europe. Known for his hockey IQ, consistency, and competitive drive, Brandon led the ECHL in scoring, earned All-ECHL First Team honors, and was named Central Hockey League MVP. Brandon leans on his experience competing at the highest levels to guide each athlete towards reaching their full potential.
Following his playing career, Brandon transitioned into coaching, blending professional experience with a strong academic foundation. He holds a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), applying evidence based training to optimize strength, movement efficiency, and overall athletic performance. He believes that development is centered around sound and consistent habits, which allow athletes to prepare physically and mentally for any challenge.
Chris McKelvie had an accomplished career spanning Division I college hockey at Bemidji State University and professional hockey in the American Hockey League (AHL). Known for his work ethic, hockey IQ, and leadership on and off the ice, Chris developed a reputation as a competitive and reliable player at every level he competed. His experiences in high-level collegiate and professional hockey have shaped a deep understanding of the skills, discipline, and mindset required to excel in the sport.
Today, Chris channels that experience into coaching, serving as the Head Men's Hockey Coach at Bethel University and mentoring youth hockey players. Chris is Passionate about developing well-rounded athletes emphasizing skill development, game awareness, and confidence building through structured, engaging training methods. His coaching philosophy combines real world experience with a focus on long term growth, helping young players maximize their potential while fostering a love for the game.
Canon Pieper played Division I college hockey as well as professionally in the ECHL. Known for his skill, dedication, and on-ice intelligence, Canon built a reputation as a high performing, resilient athlete at every level he played. His experiences competing at the collegiate and professional levels give him a unique perspective on the mental and physical demands of hockey, shaping his understanding of what it takes to succeed in the sport.
Following his playing career, Canon transitioned into mental performance coaching, utilizing his Masters Degree in Sports Psychology to help athletes strengthen their focus, confidence, and resilience both on and off the ice. Drawing on his professional experience and expertise in mental skills training, he works with hockey players of all ages and levels to enhance performance, develop consistent routines, and navigate the pressures of the game. His approach emphasizes mental preparation as a key component of long-term athletic and personal growth.
Mila Wilson
LEAD MOVEMENT COACH
Mila is excited to join Elevate365 and help young athletes unlock a new level of movement and performance. With her background in rhythmic gymnastics and training at the prestigious Ukrainian National School Deriugina, she brings world class expertise in flexibility, body control, and movement efficiency.
Her passion is helping youth athletes move better, build flexibility the right way, and develop the foundation that supports strength, speed, and injury prevention setting them up for long-term success in sport and beyond.
