When the doors to St. Thomas University's new men's hockey chapter opened in January 2026, they did so with a familiar South Florida figure stepping behind the bench. Kevin Hoy was announced as the Bobcats' inaugural Head Men's Hockey Coach, bringing with him not just a résumé of experience, but a story deeply rooted in the region where the program would take shape.
When asked about Kevin being announced as the Head Coach, Senior Vice President of Athletics Bill Rychel had this to say: " I am excited for Kevin to join us as our first hockey coach. His background in hockey in South Florida is an advantage for us in starting the program. He has the experience we need as a coach and within the ACHA to build a championship team."
Hoy's journey through hockey began on the rinks of South Florida, where he first discovered his love for the game before chasing it across North America. His playing career carried him through the EMJHL, EJHL, AJHL, and MJHL—most notably with the Bay State Breakers—and ultimately into the professional ranks with the Danbury Whalers of the Federal Hockey League. When the skates came off, Hoy's passion for the game only grew stronger. He started as a goalie coach, founded the Miami Toros Hockey Program, and went on to serve as Coordinator of Operations & Programming for TPH Ft. Lauderdale. Most recently, he helped shape the next generation of players as Director of AA for the Florida Jr. Panthers and Co-Head Coach of Florida Atlantic University's Division III program.
Now, at St. Thomas University, Hoy's story comes full circle. Known for his commitment to player development, he brings a philosophy centered on competitive excellence, character, and growth—both on and off the ice. As the Bobcats take their first strides as a program, they do so guided by a coach whose roots, experience, and passion align perfectly with building something new. Welcome to St. Thomas, Coach Hoy—the foundation is set, and the future is ready to skate forward.
