Behind every great player is a coach who believes in them. At PSM Icehouse, our coaching staff is dedicated to building not just better hockey players, but more confident and capable individuals. In this series, we highlight the people who make that impact every day on the ice.
Coach Spotlight: Preston Ray
Leagues Manager
At PSM Icehouse, hockey is built on community, hard work, and a commitment to getting better every time you step on the ice. Preston Ray brings that mindset into every session, working with players across youth and adult leagues and player development programs.
His approach is consistent. Build strong habits, develop compete level, and help players grow with confidence at every stage of their game.
Rooted in Fort Wayne Hockey
Hockey has always been part of Preston’s life.
His father was a former captain and championship-winning coach with the Fort Wayne Komets, giving him an early connection to the game and the Fort Wayne hockey community.
Preston grew up playing locally through the Youth Komets program, went on to win a 4A State Championship at Leo High School, and continued his career at Indiana Purdue University Fort Wayne (IPFW) while pursuing his education.
That background allows him to connect naturally with players and families who are following a similar path today.
A Coach Focused on Habits and Growth
Preston’s coaching is built around consistency and long-term development.
He works with players over time, helping them build habits that translate into performance, confidence, and a stronger understanding of the game. His sessions are designed to challenge players while giving them the structure they need to improve.
Growth is not rushed. It comes from repetition, patience, and a willingness to put in the work.
Skating, Compete & Confidence
Preston emphasizes that everything in hockey starts with skating and effort.
His sessions focus on:
- Power skating and edge control
- Compete level in every drill
- Battle habits and puck pressure
- Consistent work ethic
Players are pushed to give their best effort each time they step on the ice and to move beyond their comfort zone in a positive, high-energy environment.
“Expect to give 100% effort in everything we do.”
What Players Gain
Players who train with Preston develop more than just skill.
They build:
- A strong skating foundation
- A higher level of compete
- Confidence in game situations
- Habits that carry into performance
Every session reinforces the idea that small moments matter. Battles, positioning, and effort shift outcomes in games, and those habits are built daily.
Developing Smarter Players
In addition to specialty camps, Jared works with players through youth hockey development clinics at PSM Icehouse, helping them build the skills and understanding needed to succeed in game situations.
His sessions focus on connecting skill development to game application, helping players understand not just how to execute a skill, but when and why to use it.
Whether working with newer players or experienced athletes, Jared helps players develop confidence, awareness, and the ability to make smart decisions under pressure.
What Separates Good from Great
At higher levels, decision-making becomes the difference.
Preston teaches players how to read the game, understand positioning, and make smart plays under pressure. Skill alone is not enough without awareness and execution.
Players who develop those habits are the ones who continue to move forward.
Hockey for Every Stage
Preston works with players at all points in their hockey journey.
From youth players building their foundation to adults returning to the game or continuing to develop, his approach remains the same. Meet players where they are and help them take the next step.
Whether it is learning the game, refining skills, or competing at a higher level, players are supported, challenged, and given the tools to improve.
A Staff That Understands the Journey
What makes Icehouse hockey unique is the connection between coaches and players.
The staff is made up of coaches who grew up playing in Fort Wayne, led by Kaleigh Schrock, creating a shared understanding of the path players are on.
That connection builds trust with players and families and creates an environment where development feels personal and meaningful.
Putting the Work in Year Round
Preston sees the biggest growth happen when players commit to development outside of the traditional season.
With more time and fewer distractions, players have the opportunity to focus on improving their game, building habits, and gaining an edge. From a coaching perspective, it is one of the most rewarding times to work with players who are motivated to take the next step.
“Summer is where you really see which players want to take their game to the next level.”
Moments That Stick
One of Preston’s favorite hockey memories reflects the importance of team buy-in and effort.
Winning a 4A State Championship in double overtime at Icehouse with a group that trusted each other and committed fully to the process remains a defining moment.
Lessons That Carry Beyond the Game
Preston’s mindset is shaped by a principle that applies on and off the ice.
“Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” — Tim Notke
It is a standard he brings into every session and expects from every player.
Train with Preston Ray at PSM Icehouse
Players of all ages and skill levels can train with Preston through youth and adult leagues and youth and adult player development programs at PSM Icehouse.
Whether you are building your foundation, continuing your development, or getting back into the game, Preston’s sessions focus on skating, compete level, and consistent improvement.
At PSM Icehouse, players are supported, challenged, and guided by coaches like Preston Ray, who are committed to helping them grow on and off the ice.