Welcome, TONY GILL --Loyola's New Head LAG Coach!

The Loyola Academy Hockey Club is proud to announce Tony Gill as the next Head Coach of Loyola Gold.

Tony’s hockey journey began in Rochester, Minnesota, where his youth hockey experience helped shape the foundation of his playing career. He went on to attend and play at Shattuck-St. Mary's School, where he was coached by legendary hockey minds Andy Murray and Tom Ward. From there, Tony played two seasons in the United States Hockey League with the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders under Mark Carlson, the winningest coach in USHL history. He then continued his career at University of Notre Dame, playing under Dave Poulin and Jeff Jackson. These experiences and mentors have had a lasting impact on Tony’s coaching philosophy and leadership style.

Since 2007, Tony has established himself as one of the premier coaches in the Chicagoland hockey community. From 2007–2009, he coached with the Chicago Young Americans, and since 2010 he has been a cornerstone of the Falcons organization, coaching every age level from Mites through Midgets. During his tenure, his teams have captured numerous Central States and State Championships. In addition to team coaching, Tony has coached several camps and hockey clinics and has worked extensively as a skills instructor, helping players of all levels develop and advance their game.

Tony’s coaching philosophy emphasizes an up-tempo, aggressive style of play built around strong forechecking, active defense, and relentless compete at both ends of the ice. His practices are designed to be fast-paced, efficient, and demanding, with the belief that the quality of practice directly drives game performance. He also places a strong emphasis on skill development, video analysis, and a dedicated off-ice training program.

With Tony leading Loyola Gold, Aidan Finegan leading Loyola Maroon, and DJ LaVarre continuing to provide leadership and oversight across the program, we are confident that LAHC has assembled one of the strongest varsity hockey leadership groups in the state. Their experience, energy, and commitment to player development position our program exceptionally well for the future. Just as importantly, we are excited about the opportunity to strengthen development and progression throughout the entire program—from JV and into Varsity—creating an even stronger pathway for long-term success across Loyola Hockey.

In the coming days, we will share more details regarding Tony’s involvement for the remainder of the spring season, as well as opportunities for him to connect with our players and families.

In the meantime, please join me in welcoming Tony, his wife Kelly, their daughter Grace (LA 9th grader) and son Patrick to the Loyola Hockey family. We are excited for this next chapter and look forward to all that lies ahead for our program.

Thank you,

John Dwyer
President
Loyola Academy Hockey Club