Coaching Staff
Varsity Head Coach:
Gary Pedigo boasts a deep and enduring connection to the sport of hockey, particularly within the Hyland Hills community. His journey began on the ice as a player for Hyland Hills. Transitioning from player to mentor, Gary has been a dedicated coach since 2008, sharing his knowledge and passion with new generations of players. He has coached at every level within Hyland Hills during his tenure.
Beyond his extensive coaching within Hyland Hills, Gary has also had a distinguished career as an official. He officiated college hockey for 25 years, working with both the WCHA and NCHC conferences. Additionally, he spent 23 years officiating professional hockey in the WPHL, ECHL, and AHL. This comprehensive involvement in hockey from multiple perspectives truly solidifies Gary's expertise and dedication to the sport.
Tyson Davis, originally from Vancouver, British Columbia, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role as the Co-Head Coach Gators Varsity Team. With an impressive coaching career spanning 30 years, Tyson has honed his skills and developed a solid understanding of the game at all levels of hockey. His journey in coaching began with grassroots initiatives and has since progressed to elite levels, showcasing his adaptability and commitment to the sport.
For 25 years, Tyson has been an integral part of HHHA, contributing significantly to its growth and success. His tenure with HHHA has been marked by numerous achievements, including multiple championship titles and the development of many young athletes who have excelled in higher levels of competition. Tyson's dedication to the association, a testament to his commitment and loyalty, and his unwavering support for his players have earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, players, and their families.
In the hockey community, Tyson is well recognized as a top-level coach, known for his strategic insight, motivational skills, and ability to nurture talent. His coaching philosophy centres on fostering a positive and inclusive environment where athletes can thrive on and off the ice.
19U Girls Head Coach:
With nearly 25 years of coaching experience and a background that spans NCAA Division I play and championship-level coaching, Jon Yourkin brings a passionate, purpose-driven approach to leading the Gator 19U Girls. Known for his "modern-day, old school" style, Coach Jon blends structure, accountability, and player-first development to create a winning culture on and off the ice. His mission is clear: to put the Gator 19U Girls on the map by bringing in top coaches, developing elite players, and building a program where we compete to win in everything we do. Coach Jon is committed to helping each player become the best version of themselves—on the ice, in the locker room, in the gym, and in life.
Junior Varsity Head Coach:
Derek Scanlon
Derek Scanlon began his hockey journey at age 8 with Triboro Youth Hockey in Massachusetts. Between 2003 and 2005, he represented the USA Selects Team on international trips to Prague and Switzerland. At 16, he was selected to play Junior Hockey in Washington and went on to compete professionally in the CHL, SPHL, and FHL from 2011 to 2014. Following his playing career, he transitioned into coaching, serving as Assistant Coach for the Roughriders AAA U18 and U16 teams in Colorado from 2014 to 2016, where he also led dry land training focused on holistic player development.
Over the past five years, Scanlon has worked with the Cape Cod Hockey Player Development Program, providing on-ice skill development across multiple age groups. He has held coaching positions with the South Shore Kings U18 AAA (Head Coach) and U16 AAA (Assistant Coach), as well as supported their Premier and NCDC Junior programs. In 2025, he joined Portsmouth Abbey Academy as the Assistant Coach and Skills Trainer for the Varsity Boys Hockey Team, contributing to the program’s first Holt Conference championship. Driven by a passion for the sport, Scanlon is committed to fostering a positive and competitive environment where young athletes can thrive and reach their goals.
The coaching staff for Standley Lake High School Hockey Program, including Varsity, Junior Varsity and Lady Gators teams, is deeply committed to the development of their athletes. We understand that success on the ice intertwines with academic achievement and personal growth. By fostering a balanced approach, we ensure students excel in hockey and their studies. Our dedication is evident in how we structure practices and academic support, ensuring athletes have the time and resources to thrive both in their sport and their classrooms. This commitment creates well-rounded individuals prepared for life's challenges beyond high school.
The value the coaching staff places on athlete development extends beyond physical training and skill improvement. We emphasize the importance of character, teamwork, and leadership, helping students grow into responsible and respectful young adults. Through consistent mentoring and positive reinforcement, the coaches instil values that benefit athletes on and off the ice. This approach ensures players improve their game and develop life skills to serve them well in future endeavours.
Participation in high school sports is not just encouraged, but considered a cornerstone of the Standley Lake High School Hockey program. The coaching staff actively promotes the idea that sports participation enhances academic performance. They believe that the skills learned on the ice, such as time management, discipline, and resilience, translate into the classroom. By creating a supportive and motivating environment, they help students see the value in balancing athletics with academics, fostering a culture of excellence in both arenas.
The coaching staff's dedication to the Standley Lake High School Hockey teams is not just about the game but about building a strong, inclusive community. They understand that being part of a team provides students with a sense of belonging and camaraderie, which is crucial during the high school years. By encouraging athletes to support each other and work together towards common goals, the coaches help forge lasting friendships and a strong team spirit. This inclusive atmosphere not only enhances the athletic experience but also contributes to a positive school environment where every student feels valued and supported.