“Built on Experience. Driven by Passion. Focused on Development.”
Koval Hockey Academy was founded by Oleg Koval and Nikita Kovalenko, whose hockey journeys began at the same hockey school in Ukraine. What started as a shared passion for the game led them down different paths through European and North American hockey, where they gained valuable playing experience and developed a deeper understanding of the game.
Throughout their hockey careers, both remained connected to player development, working alongside experienced coaches and helping young athletes improve their skills. These experiences shaped their belief that great hockey players are built through strong fundamentals, proper technique, and a clear understanding of the game.
Years later, their paths crossed again in Edmonton, Canada. With a shared background, years of hockey experience, and a common vision, they founded Koval Hockey Academy bringing together everything they had learned to help the next generation of players build confidence, develop their skills, and reach their full potential.
WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
Oleg Koval
Co-Founder & Coach
Oleg's hockey journey began in Ukraine, where he developed his skills and went on to represent the Ukrainian National Team at the U18 and U21 levels. His passion for the game took him to North America, where he competed in AAA hockey, earned a full scholarship to Vermont Academy a private school in the United States, and later played university hockey at Grant MacEwan University in Canada.
Having experienced different hockey systems in Europe and North America, Oleg developed a strong understanding of what it takes to build a complete hockey player. He believes that proper skating technique, strong fundamentals, and attention to detail are the foundation of long term development.
As Co Founder of Koval Hockey Academy, Oleg is passionate about passing on his knowledge to the next generation. His goal is not simply to help young athletes become better skaters, but to teach them how to understand their movements, build confidence, develop discipline, and become stronger, smarter players both on and off the ice.
Nikita Kovalenko
Co-Founder & Coach
Nikita began his hockey journey in Ukraine, where his dedication and passion for the game led him to represent the Ukrainian National Team at the U18, U20, and senior men's levels. He went on to build a professional hockey career, playing for Kryvbas, Donbas, Dnipro, and Mariupol, winning a Ukrainian National Championship, and gaining valuable playing experience in Sweden and North America.
Throughout his professional career, Nikita developed a deep understanding of the game, from skating technique and puck control to positioning, teamwork, and making quick decisions under pressure. His experience competing at different levels has shaped his approach to player development, with a strong focus on building proper fundamentals, confidence, and game awareness.
As Co-Founder of Koval Hockey Academy, Nikita is passionate about sharing his professional experience with the next generation of hockey players. His goal is to help young athletes improve their skills, understand the game, and develop the confidence and discipline needed to succeed. He believes that with the right guidance, consistent training, and strong fundamentals, every player has the opportunity to grow and reach their full potential.
“Years of dedication, countless hours on the ice, and a lifelong passion for hockey. Now, it’s our turn to pass it on.”
