Player Spotlight: Coach Thomas Kelly – 60 Years on the Ice and Still Going Strong
Meet the heart and soul of PUCHOG’s coaching staff: Coach Thomas “TK” Kelly, a veteran with six decades of hockey experience and a passion for supporting fellow service members.
A Life Built on Movement and Service
From Hershey, PA, Coach TK has lived a life that most people only read about in adventure novels. With a military career spanning multiple specialties (18Z/F/B – 91B, for those keeping track), TK’s service record reads like a masterclass in versatility and dedication.
At 22, he joined the military and never looked back. His career took him across countless duty stations, rarely staying in one place for more than a few years. That kind of constant movement builds something special—resilience, adaptability, and a treasure trove of stories that could fill volumes.
Six Decades of Hockey
When asked why he plays hockey, Coach TK’s response is simple: “Good question!!”
Translation? Once hockey gets in your blood, it never leaves. At 60 years of playing experience and counting, TK continues to lace up his skates with the same passion he had as a young player. That’s not just dedication—that’s a love affair with the game.
Why PUCHOG?
What drew Coach TK to Players Using Competition Helping Others Grow? “The opportunity to work with veteran hockey players.”
For TK, PUCHOG represents everything he values: service, camaraderie, and the chance to give back to those who understand the unique bond shared by veterans. He jumped in with both feet and hasn’t looked back since.
Current Life: Heavy Equipment and Hockey
Today, Coach TK works as a Heavy Equipment Operator when he’s not on the ice. It’s physical work that requires precision, patience, and skill—qualities that translate perfectly to coaching hockey.
Words to Live By
Coach TK’s favorite quote? “Can’t fix stupid.”
And according to him, there’s a long list to prove it. We didn’t press for names, but we have a feeling there are some entertaining stories behind that philosophy.
The PUCHOG Difference
Coaches like TK are what make PUCHOG special. This isn’t just an organization that plays hockey—it’s a community where veterans support veterans, where experience is valued, and where service continues long after the uniform comes off.
What makes Coach TK’s story resonate:
- 60 years of hockey passion that hasn’t dimmed
- A lifetime of military service across multiple specialties
- A commitment to helping fellow veterans find community and purpose
- The kind of straightforward wisdom that only comes from decades of experience
Be Part of the Team
PUCHOG is always looking for players, volunteers, and supporters who share Coach TK’s passion for veteran hockey. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, whether you can donate time or resources, there’s a place for you in this community.
The coaches, players, and volunteers at PUCHOG aren’t just building teams—they’re building a legacy of support, one skate at a time.
Want to join the ranks alongside veterans like Coach TK? Reach out to PUCHOG and find out how you can get involved.
Players Using Competition Helping Others Grow (PUCHOG) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of wounded veterans through hockey and community events. Every event is volunteer-run, and 100% of proceeds support our teams.
