Richard Appleby has been involved as a volunteer with youth hockey sports originally in Detroit Michigan and since moving to Virginia in 1988.  Richard’s business career has been in the automotive industry as owner and operator of several dealership groups in Michigan, Virginia, and Alabama.  Richard currently owns an Automobile Management consulting company as well as an independent auto repair center. As a volunteer Richard has been involved in youth hockey in Virginia Beach since 1996 as Hockey Director, Level 4 USA certified youth coach, and association president of the Hampton Roads Youth Hockey Association (501c).  In addition, Richard served as Head Coach for Old Dominion University ACHA 3 hockey for 6 years, hockey commissioner of the Blue Ridge Collegiate Hockey Association, and currently as Director of Competition for the Carolinas Hockey League travel hockey program.  Richard’s involvement with Warrior for Life started with the original VB Hockey club in Iceland where he serves as Vice-President/Board member.  Richard joined the board as an advisor and coordinates ice activities between Warrior for Life and Iceland of Hampton Roads Ice arena.

Tony Cabana attended college prep school at Proctor Academy in Andover NH (Class of 95) from there; he went on to play hockey and tennis at Sacred Heart University, where he graduated in 1999 with a degree in Business Administration, with a concentration in marketing.  He is currently the Vice President of Cross Insurance – Benefits. In this capacity, he works with large employers helping them navigate the world of employee benefits. He has served on several boards including HELIO Health Care, Boys & Girls Clubs. Today, he acts as the Partner Development Director for the Warrior For Life Fund. In this role, he is part of a dynamic team helping active duty and retired Veterans cope with the effects of war through the game of hockey. Tony also serves as an ambassador to the Navy SEAL Foundation where he works with several gold star families. He currently resides in NH with his family.

Grady retired as a US Navy Captain after 26 years and 15 deployments in Special Operations. During his career he commanded SEAL Teams, a “first of its kind” clandestine mini-sub squadron, and the National Mission Force overseas. After earning his Master of International Public Policy from Johns Hopkins University, Grady served at the Central Intelligence Agency. He grew up playing hockey in North Dakota, is a Level IV USA Hockey coach, and has a contagious energy for the game. He and his wife Carla skate every week with their two sons.

Dave Wheeler serves as Chief Operating Officer at New Balance, a global leader in athletic footwear and apparel. Since assuming the role in September 2017, Wheeler has been instrumental in driving operational excellence and strategic growth across the company’s global footprint. He oversees end-to-end operations, including product development, global planning, sourcing, manufacturing, logistics, quality assurance, innovation, and construction, ensuring that New Balance delivers premium products to athletes and consumers worldwide.

Under his leadership, New Balance has achieved record performance, tripling revenue and volume while navigating unprecedented challenges such as global supply chain disruptions and the COVID-19 pandemic. Wheeler spearheaded initiatives to modernize manufacturing, expand advanced production capabilities, and strengthen sustainability practices. His vision emphasizes agility, innovation, and customer-centric execution.

Prior to joining New Balance in 2017 as Senior Vice President of Global Supply Chain, Wheeler held senior leadership roles at Cintas Corporation, where he helped grow revenue from $1 billion to $6 billion, and at Union Pacific Railroad, managing billion-dollar capital programs and operational planning. He began his career as an avionics engineer with the U.S. Department of Defense, developing advanced systems for the F-16, YF-22 and YF-23, laying the foundation for his expertise in complex systems and operational strategy.

Wheeler holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical & Electronics Engineering from Merrimack College and an MBA in Supply Chain and Finance from Miami University. He is a Six Sigma Master Black Belt and a recognized thought leader in supply chain transformation. Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Wheeler serves on the Board of Directors for the World Federation of the Sporting Goods Industry and advises organizations focused on innovation, sustainability, and workforce development.

A passionate advocate for integrity, teamwork, and continuous improvement, Wheeler believes that operational excellence is achieved through alignment of strategy and execution. The son and brother of military veterans, Wheeler has been married for over 30 years and a father of two, he resides near Boston, Massachusetts.

MA Robin McGraw is a multifaceted community leader with a rich history of service and philanthropy. Serving as an Ambassador at Large for Berkshire School, his alma mater, Robin also holds key roles in The Donald C. McGraw Foundation and Black Rock Foundation, focusing on human services, education and healthcare in Berkshire County. His diverse career includes a 16-year stint as a tactical paramedic, and he’s an accomplished athlete — an All-American Soccer player, national team saber fencer and member of the U.S. Masters Hockey Team. Robin’s leadership extends to various boards, including Hospice Care in the Berkshires and The Play to Lead Foundation. As a Deputy Sheriff, he’s also a member of the Opiate Task Force, focusing on inmate re-entry programs. Robin and his wife, Buzz, reside on a farm in South Egremont with their pets. As for his fencing credentials, Robin trained under world-renowned masters like Jean Michel Oprendek and was attached to the French National Team from 1978 to 1980. He earned his Maitre des Armes title at the 1981 World Championships. He then retired from competitive fencing in 1982.

Kevan Miller was born in California but moved east at a young age to pursue a hockey career. He graduated from the University of Vermont in 2011 with a degree in Community Development and Applied Economics. Kevan retired from professional hockey in 2021 after a 10-year career with the Boston Bruins organization. He currently resides in Montana with his family and joined the Warrior for Life Fund board in 2023.

Kevin joins the Warrior for Life Fund as a newly appointed Ambassador, bringing a blend of engineering expertise, people leadership, and a lifelong passion for serving others. A Mechanical Engineering graduate from the University of Massachusetts, Kevin spent more than a decade at Gillette and Procter & Gamble, where he leveraged his technical background and people-focused leadership style to manage teams and develop talent within a world-class consumer products organization.

Motivated by a desire to make a more direct impact, Kevin later transitioned into the medical device and pharmaceutical manufacturing industries, leading teams dedicated to quality, precision, and improving patient outcomes.

In 2022, he became COO of Marina Bay Management, a Quincy, Massachusetts–based company overseeing residential communities, hospitality operations, restaurants, and golf course facilities including Granite Links Golf Club. His work centers on operational excellence, long-term strategy, and strengthening the communities the company serves.

Kevin has always been driven by a strong commitment to helping others, especially families and individuals facing challenges. Joining the Warrior for Life Fund represents an opportunity for him to support active-duty service members, veterans, and their families a mission he is honored to be part of. As a new Ambassador, Kevin looks forward to learning from the WFLF community, contributing where he can, and earning his place through meaningful service.

Outside of work, Kevin enjoys traveling with his wife, Kelly, and together they share a deep love for their dogs. With lifelong passions for hockey, golf, and physical fitness, he brings energy, humility, and a service first mindset to everything he does.

Jeantelle (JT) Duhon is a dynamic and energetic leader with over 22 years of operational, technical and project management experience.  As a coach, life-long athlete, Navy Veteran, and business professional she offers a perspective that has been highly successful for a multitude of organizational environments. Most recently she serves in the role of Vice President of Operations for Goldbelt Glacier Health Services, a behavioral and mental health services company focused on providing holistic health readiness and resilience across the Military, Federal and Civilian landscapes.

Mrs. Duhon holds a master’s degree (MS), in Management of Information Systems from the University of Alabama, Birmingham. She attended Louisiana State University Executive Development Program, E.J. Ourso College of Business and is a Project Management Professional.

In her free time, Mrs. Duhon is a voting member on the Health and Fitness committee at the Norfolk Yacht and Country Club.  She is also an advisor to multiple fund-raising activities and has held race committee chair positions for local charity events. Mrs. Duhon lives an active lifestyle and enjoys being on the water and playing tennis. The only thing she loves more than being on the water is spending time with her family and watching her children, Katie Paige and Chase, achieving their own personal goals and living their best lives.

Frank Simonetti is an accomplished executive and former professional athlete with a distinguished career spanning both the sports and technology sectors. A graduate of Norwich University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Frank began his professional journey as a defenseman for the Boston Bruins, where he played four seasons in the National Hockey League.

Following his time in professional sports, Frank transitioned into the data storage industry, bringing the same discipline and strategic mindset to business that he demonstrated on the ice. Since 1996, he has served as Vice President and co-owner of Avatek Corporation, a firm specializing in enterprise data storage solutions. Frank plans to retire from Avatek at the end of 2025 to focus on his philanthropic activities.

Frank currently serves as President of the Boston Bruins Alumni Association, where he oversees operations, strategic partnerships, and philanthropic initiatives. He has been a member of the Bruins Alumni Team for over 35 years, leveraging the power of hockey to support charitable organizations throughout New England and beyond.

Frank was introduced to the Warrior for Life Fund through his involvement with the Bruins Alumni, becoming a board member in 2019, allowing him to further his passion of supporting military families and veterans through community engagement and hockey-based programs.  In early 2025, Frank transitioned from his board role to take on a more hands-on leadership position as Program Manager, overseeing Face Off for Heroes, a multi city hockey series that brings together NHL alumni, active-duty military, veterans, and their families for experiences that foster camaraderie and build meaningful relationships.

Brian grew up in Carmel, Indiana, where hockey became a defining part of his life at an early age. From youth hockey through juniors and Division I, the game shaped the values of teamwork, discipline, resilience, and service that have guided him ever since. As Warrior for Life Fund’s Montana Ambassador, Brian is passionate about using hockey to strengthen the Special Operations community by connecting veterans, active-duty service members, and their families through mentorship, camaraderie, and community.

Brian is a retired Navy Commander who served 15 years in Naval Special Warfare, including multiple combat deployments with SEAL Team SEVEN and Naval Special Warfare Development Group (DEVGRU). Before his military service, he played three seasons in the North American Hockey League with the Bozeman Icedogs and Youngstown Phantoms before playing Division I hockey at Bowling Green State University.

Today, Brian and his wife, Lauryn, are raising their three sons in Bozeman, Montana, where hockey remains a central part of their family’s life. He believes the rink is one of the best places to build character, forge lifelong friendships, and ensure no veteran or military family walks alone.

As a New Jersey native, Brian was raised with strong family ties to law enforcement and like many of his teammates and colleagues, was deeply affected by the September 11th attacks on the World Trade Center. After graduating from The Citadel in 2009, Brian deferred his commission for two years to sign a free agent contract to play professional baseball. Following (3) seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates, Newark Bears, and Somerset Patriots, Brian served as the Officer-in- Charge of the US Military All Star Baseball while awaiting orders to attend the US Army Aviation School of Excellence, where he earned his wings as a UH60 Blackhawk Pilot and named the Honor Graduate.

As a combat aviator, Brian completed multiple deployments to the Middle East before entering the National Guard, during which time he deployed numerous times to Africa, South America, and Iraq as a contractor with Blackwater. In 2016, he completed an inter-service transfer to the US Navy, where he served as a Troop Commander with Special Reconnaissance Team TWO and deployed numerous times supporting OGA missions across multiple theatres. His tours of duty represent the cross-section of a diverse range of individual experiences, strategic and operational readiness and a ubiquitous set of soft skills.
Brian received his MBA from Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business in 2019 while on active duty as a plank owner of Naval Special Warfare’s Future Concepts & Innovation Directorate. In this role, he served as a direct report the Admiral as a uniformed subject matter expert on advanced technology trends with the potential to deliver competitive advantage across the USSOCOM enterprise.

Following multiple years building and expanding NSW’s emerging technology portfolio, Brian transitioned from Active Duty and while still serving as a Reservist with SEAL Team 17, was named the first Chief Innovation Officer to Wentworth Financial and its venture holdings company, Irongate Capital. After the company’s successful acquisition in 2021, he returned to active duty, recently appointed as the Commander, Naval Special Warfare TF UxS, overseeing all autonomy and robotics initiatives for the SEAL teams.

Brian skillfully leverages his comprehensive knowledge of the finance, government and professional sports industries to foster new and relevant partnerships with elite talent that transcends traditional norms. In addition to his commitment to uniform, Brian regularly takes part in external seminars, keynote speaking engagements and leadership symposiums for advancing technologies, national security, human optimization and organizational performance. He continues to coach baseball part-time at San Diego State University and advises multiple MLB organizations to optimize performance and leadership for their players, coaches and front office personnel.

Annie is the founder and owner of Cortex Initiative. She is a Certified Brain Injury Specialist through the Brain Injury Association of America and holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from Old Dominion University with a minor in Special Education, and a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from James Madison University. Annie started her career as a middle school special education teacher and a multi-sport coach. She later became an outpatient SLP in a local hospital system, where she treated patients with a vast range of medically complex diagnoses, was the lead SLP for both the ALS and MS clinics at a nearby neurology practice, and co-facilitated a support group for people with Spasmodic Dysphonia. In addition to outpatient therapy clinics, she has worked in acute care hospitals, inpatient rehabilitation settings, long-term care facilities, and skilled nursing facilities.

Annie has extensive clinical experience in general speech pathology with the adult population, including disorders of speech, language, cognition, voice, resonance, and swallowing. Her specific interests include working with clients who have suffered brain injuries, brain tumors, strokes, or have progressive neurological diseases, as well as clients with disorders of the voice.  She has dedicated much of her career to developing and refining materials, resources, and interventions that help strengthen the cognitive and language abilities of high-performing military service members and civilians with a history of mild traumatic brain injury.  Annie enjoys educating family members on the impact of TBI and regularly collaborates with other professionals nationwide to ensure superior care for her clients. She is nationally certified with leadership and clinical supervision experience.

Annie is the proud mother of a young son, two stepchildren, and the best doodle-dog, Bobo. She enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, traveling, and volunteering with her husband’s military hockey charity, Warrior for Life Fund.

Kerry Collins has over twenty years of leadership experience across sports, nonprofit organizations, media, and community engagement. As a respected executive and skilled relationship builder, Ms. Collins dedicated more than 22 years to the Boston Bruins, most recently serving as Senior Director of Community Relations. In this position, she developed and managed charitable projects, community programs led by athletes, and significant partnerships that benefited youth, families, veterans, first responders, and underserved groups across New England.

Kerry has built a strong reputation for strategically aligning mission-driven organizations, corporate partners and athletes to advance shared goals and measurable outcomes. She has collaborated extensively with national and local charities, cultural institutions, and community leaders, and currently holds leadership and advisory positions advancing philanthropy, sports, and cultural projects.

Ms. Collins’ engagement with the Warrior for Life Fund developed organically from her tenure with both the Boston Bruins and Bruins Alumni, where she worked closely with military service members, veterans, and families through various community and hockey-based initiatives. This experience highlighted the value of fostering shared experiences between athletes and military personnel, reinforcing meaningful connections. She brings this strategic, relationship-driven approach to Warrior for Life Fund, emphasizing the recognition of service, the strengthening of community bonds, and the development of programs that build trust, camaraderie, and lasting engagement.

Beyond her professional achievements, Ms. Collins is a passionate world traveler who has explored all seven continents, a committed runner with multiple marathons and half marathons completed, and an active participant in the Boston Irish Dippers weekly winter polar plunge group. She remains dedicated to service, mentorship, and leveraging sports and community involvement to drive positive change.

Storytelling is at the heart of Jayme Pastoric’s work in media and public relations. He holds a Bachelor’s in photography/journalism and a Master’s in strategic communications. He recently completed 24 years of Naval service, deploying numerous times with Naval Special Operations Forces, including a combat tour in Iraq with SEAL Team Two.  He is one of a handful of Department of Defense underwater photographers and is a third-generation military artist. His work has appeared in national and international publications, including USA Hockey Magazine, Time Magazine, and National Geographic. He bunkers down in Millington, TN, with his beautiful wife, Erin, and their two boys.

Geoff has practiced in the firm’s Norfolk office since 1997 and in the Kitty Hawk office since 2019. He concentrates his law practice in taxation, ERISA, employee benefits, business transactions, real estate, and international business matters.  His taxation practice focuses on corporate taxation, limited liability company issues, and international tax as well as state and local tax.  Geoff’s employee benefits practice concentrates on qualified retirement plans, executive compensation, and welfare benefits including multiemployer plans and governmental plans.  His business transactions practice is geared toward closely held business issues and international transactions.  Geoff heads the firm’s real estate practice in the Kitty Hawk office.  Geoff served as a Law Clerk for Special Master Richard B. Abell of the United States Court of Federal Claims from 1995-97.  He is admitted to practice before the U.S. Court of Federal Claims and the United States Tax Court.  Geoff provides legal advice and consultation to the Warrior For Life Fund.

Jessica Branham, LCSW has been practicing in the field of clinical social work for 14 years.  She earned her BA in psychology from James Madison University in 2006 and her Master’s of Science in Social Work from Columbia University in 2008.  With a strong focus on work with children, adolescents and families, Ms. Branham completed clinical rotations throughout New York City before permanently relocating to Virginia Beach.  She worked at Children’s Hospital of the Kings Daughters, supporting children and their families dealing with chronic and life changing illness.  For the last 10 years Ms. Branham has been embedded locally with the Navy focusing primarily on the wellbeing of those serving as tactical specialists in naval special warfare.  She developed expertise in care of those dealing with trauma and is trained in cognitive behavioral therapy for trauma, prolonged exposure therapy, cognitive processing therapy and eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.  Working with a tactical population allowed her to also specialize in mental performance, leadership development and personal growth.  Ms. Branham is passionate about the health and wellbeing of those who are driven to perform in their chosen field whether that means traditional mental health treatment or enhancement of skills through performance coaching.  She provides care that is personally tailored to each individual and based on their specific goals.  Ms. Branham is currently the owner and operator of Balanced Growth Therapy and Consulting in Virginia Beach.  In this practice which opened in 2023 she provides treatment, mental performance enhancement and individual and group consultation.  Ms. Branham is married with two children and in her free time she enjoys being outside, traveling and spending time with her friends and family.

Jonathan Haynes is an Association of Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) with a master’s degree in Sport and Performance Psychology from the University of Denver. With over eight years of experience, Jonathan specializes in high-performance coaching and mental skills training, working with elite athletes, military personnel, corporate leaders, medical professionals, and educators. His diverse clientele includes startup founders, executives, musicians, airline pilots, and more.

Jonathan’s extensive experience includes working as a resilience trainer for the United States Army and U.S. Air Force, serving as part of the U.S. Army’s Resilience Directorate at Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg). He has supported high-level units such as the 18th Airborne Corps, Special Operations, Combat Arms, and Combat Aviation. Additionally, he has served as a Cognitive Performance Specialist for the Department of Defense’s Human Intelligence Training-Joint Center of Excellence (HT-JCOE), where he contributed to enhancing mental performance and cognitive resilience in personnel across various critical roles.

Drawing from evidence-based techniques such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based interventions, Jonathan helps clients build resilience, enhance performance, and foster psychological flexibility. He also has extensive experience in leadership development, team dynamics, and resilience-building, offering support that empowers individuals and organizations to thrive in high-pressure environments.

Diane is a nonprofit fundraising strategist with more than 30 years of experience helping mission-driven organizations serve people facing significant challenges. Over the course of her career, she has raised millions of dollars to support people with physical disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, mental health challenges, developmental disabilities, individuals who are blind or Deaf, and people experiencing homelessness. Diane enjoys working side-by-side with nonprofit leaders to engage donors and advance high-impact fundraising initiatives.

One of the most life-changing experiences of Diane’s life was volunteering on a 367-mile wheelchair race across Alaska, where she supported a paralyzed Navy SEAL who went on to win the race. Each morning the racers covered 26–40 miles before everyone packed up camp, moved to the next stage of the race, cooked dinner, and settled into their tents for the night. What Diane remembers most is the sense of community that developed along the way, with athletes and crew working side-by-side and everyone doing their part to make the whole adventure possible.

Diane lives outside Boston with her 115-pound Newfoundland dog.

Claire serves as the Accountant for Warrior For Life Fund, where she manages accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and financial analysis to support the organization’s daily operations and long-term growth. After providing financial support services to Warrior For Life Fund for the past 24 months, Claire was recently promoted to Accountant, reflecting her expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to ensuring the organization remains a responsible steward of donor resources while advancing its mission. She is passionate about bringing clarity, structure, and accuracy to financial information, helping organizational leaders make informed decisions and remain focused on serving warriors, veterans, and their families.

Prior to joining Warrior For Life Fund, Claire established accounting systems and managed financial operations for dozens of organizations throughout the Hampton Roads region. Her experience includes supporting growing organizations, streamlining accounting processes, strengthening financial controls, and developing efficient systems that improve both accountability and organizational performance.

A Virginia native, Claire earned her degree from the College of Business at James Madison University and completed a minor in Nonprofit Studies. Her educational background and passion for mission-driven work have helped shape her commitment to supporting nonprofit organizations that make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Claire resides in Virginia Beach with her husband, Carter. Outside of work, she enjoys spending as much time as possible outdoors, exploring the coastal beauty of Hampton Roads, and sharing a good cup of coffee with family and friends. Through her dedication to financial excellence and service, Claire plays an important role in helping Warrior For Life Fund continue to grow its impact and support those who have served.

Laurie Wood is a Navy Veteran, Deputy Sheriff, law enforcement/firearms instructor, and stand-up comedian. In 2012, Wood fell from a roof while training academy recruits for the Norfolk Sheriff’s Office. The resulting spinal cord injury left her paralyzed. She took up sled hockey with the Warrior For Life Fund as part of her rehabilitation. Finding success, she played on the USA Women’s Sled Hockey team for three years, winning Gold in Ontario at the inaugural International Women’s Cup. Currently, she plays on two teams: the USA Warriors for disabled veterans and her beloved Warrior for Life Fund team in Virginia Beach.

Since her injury, Wood has worked as a Human Systems Integration Specialist for Cape Henry Associates, a service-disabled veteran-owned small business specializing in manpower and personnel analysis and training. She also was a firearms instructor at Colonial Shooting Academy in Virginia Beach. Through it all, she’s held onto her grit and optimism, always ready for the next challenge.

Wood lives in Virginia Beach with her son Gavin, who is following his mother’s footsteps and serving in the Navy.

Tina Ormsby is a passionate relationship builder and dedicated to helping others. She thrives in team-building environments and group gatherings, where she believes there are no strangers, only friends she hasn’t met yet. Tina is honored to be part of the Warrior for Life Fund (WFLF) family and looks forward to connecting with others at future events. With nearly ten years of experience working part-time in a customer-focused role, Tina excelled in multi-tasking, customer service, quality control, efficiency, cleanliness, organizing, ordering, pricing, and communication. She truly enjoyed working in an environment committed to caring for its customers and fostering repeat business. 

Ryan Hodge is a retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief with over 20 years of military service, including leadership roles supporting advanced communications, technology integration, and mission-critical operations. Throughout his career, he specialized in delivering reliable, secure technology solutions while leading teams and managing complex technical programs.

As the IT & Systems Administrator for Warrior for Life Fund, Ryan is responsible for the organization’s technology infrastructure, including Microsoft 365, networking, cybersecurity, audio/visual systems, access control, and day-to-day technical support. His focus is on ensuring that staff and volunteers have dependable technology that allows them to concentrate on serving veterans and their families.

Ryan holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, an Associate of Science in Information Systems, and industry certifications including CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+. He is also a proud graduate of The Honor Foundation’s Group 72 leadership and transition program and is currently pursuing an MBA to further strengthen his leadership and business expertise.

Driven by a servant-leader mindset, Ryan believes technology should simplify work, strengthen security, and empower people—not become a barrier to accomplishing the mission. He is proud to support Warrior for Life Fund’s commitment to improving the lives of veterans through reliable technology and trusted partnership.

Tricia is a highly experienced Physical Therapist with more than two decades of dedicated practice in neurological rehabilitation, with a special interest in Parkinson’s Disease. She earned her Master of Physical Therapy degree from Old Dominion University and holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University. She has built her career around advancing care for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease, ALS, balance and vestibular disorders, and other complex neurological conditions. She is a Certified PWR! Moves Specialist and Rock Steady Boxing Coach and has held past certifications in both LSVT BIG and Vestibular Rehabilitation.

Throughout her career, Tricia has been recognized for her ability to build and elevate programs that improve patient outcomes and expand access to specialized care. She has assisted and led the development of multiple multidisciplinary clinics and neurological programs. Her leadership includes creating system-wide clinical protocols, designing Parkinson’s- and ALS-specific treatment pathways, and mentoring therapists to strengthen the quality and consistency of care. She also teaches as an Adjunct Professor at Old Dominion University assisting in course work with a focus in neurology, is a lead lecturer on the evaluation of Parkinson’s Disease, and leads a special topics course on the evaluation and treatment of Parkinson’s Disease. Additionally, she serves on the board for Empowerment Neurofitness and Wellness and assists with leading the local Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease Support Group.

Tricia is known for her empathy, compassion, collaboration, and unwavering dedication to her patients. She believes that every person deserves to feel supported, understood, and empowered throughout their therapy journey. She takes time to listen, explain, and tailor each treatment plan so patients know exactly what to expect and feel confident in their progress. Her goal is always to help her patients achieve their highest level of function and aide in them remaining active in the ways that matter most to them. Patients describe Tricia as compassionate, knowledgeable, and deeply invested in their success. She is honored to walk alongside each person she treats and is dedicated to helping them achieve meaningful, lasting improvements in their daily lives.

Robert Pizzini is the Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer of iFLY Va Beach Indoor Skydiving. He brought this multimillion-dollar technology to Virginia Beach in 2015. In 2018 iFLY Va Beach was awarded the Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year. In 2019, Robert launched Elevate Your Leadership, a leadership experience that refreshes and energizes seasoned executives, develops new leaders, and builds high performing teams. In 2022, he authored his first Best Selling book titled Elevate Your Leadership, how to develop, Maintain, and Advance Lifelong Leadership. Robert’s efforts earned the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce Leadership Award.

Robert retired from the U.S. Navy in 2010 after 26 years of service in Navy Special Operations as a Master Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Technician, and EOD Officer. He completed a combat tour with the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force, Arabian Peninsula, Balad, Iraq. His personal decorations include the Bronze Star.

Mr. Pizzini received his Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts from New York Regents College and graduated from Troy State University with a Master of Science degree in International Relations and National Security. He is also a graduate of Air Command and Staff College and was an adjunct professor with American Military University’s School of Homeland Security from 2007-2010.

Professional affiliations include Executive Committee, Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, and board member of The Warrior For Life Fund. Robert is a USA Hockey Level 4 coach, and coaches high school hockey.

Andrew Alberts grew up playing hockey on the frozen lakes of Minnesota. He now resides on the North Shore of Massachusetts with his wife and three children. After graduating from Boston College with a degree in Communications, he played nine years in the NHL, retiring in 2014. Following his playing career, Andrew worked as a TV Hockey Analyst for NESN and the Boston Bruins in 2017 & ’18. Currently, he works as the Director of Player Development at Sense Arena, a VR cognitive training tool for athletes looking to improve their hockey and tennis skills. In 2023, Andrew joined the Warrior for Life Fund as an official ambassador.

Mark Mowers grew up in upstate NY.  He attended and played hockey for the University of New Hampshire graduating with a Sports Management degree in 1998.  After college Mark played 13 years of professional hockey including stops in Nashville, Detroit, Anaheim and Boston before finishing up his career in Switzerland.  Post playing career brought him back to the arenas where he has been an NHL Scout for the past 12 years, currently working for the Minnesota Wild.  Mark also does real estate in the state of New Hampshire.  He is involved with the Boston Bruins Alumni Organization recently being voted on as a board member.  Mark and his wife Jana have two daughter and currently live north of Boston.

Jon Lauder was raised in a rural community in Minnesota and spent his formative years playing ice hockey on the rinks in his hometown. After graduating college, he served 28 years in the United States Marine Corps retiring in December 2022. While in the Marines, he completed multiple combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan including non-combat assignments in Israel and South Korea. He spent his last 4 years on active duty as the Marine Corps’ liaison to the United States Senate working on military issues germane to the Armed Services, Foreign Relations, and Veterans Affairs committees. Jon currently lives in Springfield, Virginia with his family. In 2023, he joined the Warrior for Life Fund as an official ambassador.

Deborah Hodges is a seasoned healthcare executive and former President and CEO of Health Plans Inc. (HPI), where she spent 34 years leading the company’s growth into a nationally recognized, innovative organization in claims administration, cost containment, and care navigation. Known for her strategic leadership and ability to build strong, collaborative relationships, Deb has extensive experience across corporate strategy, operations, and client service, with a consistent focus on delivering results. She led HPI through several national acquisitions creating a strong legacy she is proud of and positioning the company for long term success.

A committed advocate for leadership development, Deb founded WAVE (Women Advancing Value and Empowerment) to support and elevate women in executive roles. She is a former Board member of the Self-Insured Institute of America and a frequent national speaker on healthcare innovation. Widely respected as an accessible and trusted mentor, she has been recognized for her dedication to volunteering and supporting others throughout her career.

Deb has been actively involved with the Warrior for Life Fund for several years through fundraising and community support, and is honored to be an Ambassador. She resides in Massachusetts with her family and is a proud grandmother to two little girls.

Growing up as the oldest of six children on the South Shore of Massachusetts, he and his younger brother Mike shared a passion for hockey, with both aiming to play at the college level. Greg played high school hockey at the Tilton School in New Hampshire, while Mike attended Thayer Academy in Massachusetts.

After high school, Greg went to college in Vermont but eventually followed his passion for skiing, leading him to Aspen, Colorado. There, he owns and operates Hamilton Sports. As a Gold Star brother, Greg felt a strong connection to the community his brother Mike loved, and he became involved with the Warrior For Life Fund, which has provided significant support to Mike’s surviving wife and children. Greg’s dedication to this community ensures that other families can benefit from similar opportunities.

Greg and his wife Ashley are expecting their first child in May and currently reside in Basalt, Colorado. It’s heartwarming to see how Greg has turned his personal experiences into a commitment to helping others. How wonderful that they have a new addition to their family on the way

Allen Lerner is a Maine native and graduate of the US Naval Academy. He served on East Coast SEAL Teams, both active duty and in the reserves, and recently retired after 27 years of service. He continues to serve his community as the owner of Chick-fil-A Plymouth (MA) and by coaching youth sports.Allen Lerner is a Maine native and graduate of the US Naval Academy. He served on East Coast SEAL Teams, both active duty and in the reserves, and recently retired after 27 years of service. He continues to serve his community as the owner of Chick-fil-A Plymouth (MA) and by coaching youth sports.

Rachel Goguen, PhD.

Co-Founder of Sticks Paws & Pucks. Combining the love of dogs and hockey, Sticks Paws & Pucks offers a brand that supports many organizations, including the Warrior For Life Fund. Rachel wrote a children’s book, Sticks Paws & Pucks, The Championship Game, where several members of the Warrior For Life Fund were introduced, along with her two pugs, Owen and Liam. Rachel won an International Impact Book Award for this book in 2025.

Rachel spent 35 years in law enforcement. During this time, she was involved in starting a service dog program, with many of these trained dogs going to Veterans. Rachel has a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology, a Masters Degree in Criminal Justice and a PhD in Criminal Justice, focusing on Statistical Analysis. Rachel is honored to be appointed as an Ambassador for the Warrior For Life Fund.

Patrick Mullen is a seasoned professional in project management and business development at Marina Bay Management in Quincy, MA. A Pittsburgh native, he grew up playing hockey and cheering for the Steelers and Penguins. Patrick graduated from the University of Denver in 2009 with a degree in Real Estate and Construction Management and later earned a Master’s in Business Innovation from the University of Ulster in Northern Ireland in 2020. His career includes playing professional hockey across the U.S., Russia, Sweden, Germany, Austria, and the UK. Patrick discovered the Warrior For Life Fund through his connection with the Boston Bruins Alumni and continues to support initiatives that blend hockey with veteran resilience programs.

Tim Dyer grew up skating on the frozen ponds in southern New Hampshire.  He holds a degree in Finance and Entrepreneurship from Babson College. He currently owns a wealth management firm helping individuals and families invest wisely while minimizing taxes. In 2017 Tim participated in the Guinness Book of World Records for the highest altitude sanctioned hockey game ever played at over 14,000 feet.  Tim his wife Tara and two young boys reside in San Diego CA.  He proudly serves as the west coast ambassador for the Warrior for Life Fund.

Mr. Kouvaris has been Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer of Chestnut Hill Ventures LLC since March 2002. Prior to Chestnut Hill Ventures, he was the Vice President of Finance for GCC Investments, LLC, a subsidiary of GC Companies, Inc. Before joining GC Companies, Mr. Kouvaris was a senior manager and Certified Public Accountant with Coopers & Lybrand LLP (predecessor to PricewaterhouseCoopers) in Boston. He currently serves and has served as a director of Millwall Football and Athletic Club plc, Coastal Medical Transportation LLC, AcuityLink LLC, Virtyx Inc., Affinity Solutions, Inc., FleetCor Technologies, Inc., ACA Capital Holdings, Inc., and Vanguard Modular Building Systems, LLC, among others. Mr. Kouvaris holds a B.S. in Accountancy from Boston College.

Tom Phalon is a retired Master Chief Petty Officer who served 24 years as a Navy SEAL with SEAL Team FOUR and Naval Special Warfare Development Group. A native of upstate New York, he grew up playing hockey—a sport that shaped his core values of discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Now living in Virginia Beach, Tom continues his service as a Captain with Southwest Airlines and as an Ambassador for the Warrior for Life Fund, where he brings decades of leadership, military experience, and community connection to the mission.

Since 2012, Tom has been a driving force behind the Warrior for Life Fund and Virginia Beach Hockey, coaching and mentoring youth while helping veterans and active-duty service members find purpose through the game. As an ambassador, he champions programs that foster mental well-being, recovery, and resilience, engages with donors and sponsors, and remains a steadfast advocate for those transitioning out of service. His unique blend of military, aviation, and hockey experience makes him a powerful voice for the community he continues to serve.