Hockey Opportunity Camp in Ontario is fortunate to have directors and staff with extraordinary depth and quality of experience – giving our parents peace of mind that their children will be well cared for as they are challenged to explore & grow during their time at summer camp.
The summer of 2026 will be my 27th summer at HOC, once again fulfilling the dual roles of Camp Director and Hockey Director, which I’ve been doing since retiring in June 2022, as an elementary school administrator.
HOC’s Executive Director Kevin McLaughlin and I are close friends, having first met back in 1989 when I originally came onboard as HOC’s Hockey Director. After all these years working together, we function together pretty much seamlessly, always prioritizing our camper centric focus. I look forward to working this summer with Kevin, our Senior Staff Team, our Camp Staff, and our Hockey Staff, to provide the “ultimate hockey and summer camp experience” for our campers.
I am a big believer in the value of summer camp, having been a camper at the original Haliburton Hockey Haven (HHH) as a child, a counsellor/instructor/canoe tripper at Camp Nominingue, Quebec in my youth, and then returning to HHH as a hockey instructor/assistant hockey director, prior to landing at HOC.
HOC is a huge piece of who I am, and who my own children are. Both Sean and Rachel grew up at HOC, spending many summers as campers and then as staff - Sean as a member of the waterski staff and Rachel most recently as the Director of Staff Development.
HOC is a special place. I can’t wait for the summer of 2026. It’s going to be epic!
Keith's Resume:
If you have any questions or concerns, email me directly at keith@learnhockey.com
The summer of 2026 will mark my 17th summer at HOC, and my first as Associate Director. My HOC journey began as a camper many years ago, followed by completing the Counsellor-in-Training (CIT) Program, and taking on roles such as Counsellor, Section Head, Counselling Director, and Assistant Director. HOC has truly been my second home through every stage of my life and career.
I’m an Ontario Certified Teacher and a graduate of Nipissing University’s Concurrent Education Program. Although I’m not originally from Northern Ontario, it’s become home over the years. I now live in Sundridge with my Australian Shepherd, Maverick. Outside of camp, I stay active by coaching with the South River Skating Club and serving as a volunteer firefighter with the Sundridge Strong Fire Department.
One of the most rewarding parts of my time at HOC has been seeing former campers grow into confident, capable leaders and join our staff team. Watching their development come full circle reminds me just how powerful the camp experience can be.
I believe every child should have the opportunity to experience summer camp — the friendships, confidence, and life lessons gained at camp are truly irreplaceable. HOC continues to be a place where campers and staff alike grow, challenge themselves, and create memories that last a lifetime.
I look forward to welcoming you and your family to the HOC community!
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to reach out to me directly at kristina@learnhockey.com
Hello Parents and Campers,
I’m Heidi, one of the Assistant Directors here at HOC.
I first joined the HOC staff team in 2018 as the Kayak Instructor. I then ran and developed our Staff Development Program and was, most recently, the Counselling Director. HOC has changed my life forever, from meeting my life partner, Jake, to creating my closest friendships and making my most cherished memories.
I graduated from Trent University with a Bachelor's Degree in Developmental Psychology. During my five years at Trent, I was the starting Setter and Captain for the Women’s Varsity Volleyball Team. I am an active volunteer and inspirational speaker for the Canadian Cancer Society. I love going on canoe trips, hiking, gardening, downhill skiing, playing sports, and enjoying a cup of coffee on the porch.
Being a part of the HOC Community has been the greatest pleasure of my life. Watching campers and staff grow and develop lifelong friendships and skills is what makes my job the greatest job in the world!
Please never hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns heidi@learnhockey.com