Our Team

Meet the Team

In many ways, the most accurate predictor for an organization’s future is the passion of its leadership – today.

“As we continue our quest to deliver incomparable sports and recreation experiences for our partners, athletes, youths, and weekend warriors, we attend to the details so that every facet of both the business and guest experience is executed with precision. We work tirelessly to ensure that our facilities reflect the efforts of those who bring them to fruition, and we strongly believe that our most important assets go home at night.” -Shane Coppola – Chairman and CEO

Here is some background on our Company’s team captains and top players:

Executive Bios

Shane Coppola – Chairman and CEO

Shane founded and has served as our Chairman and CEO since our inception in 2008.  Mr. Coppola served on the board of directors of USA Curling, the national governing body for the Olympic sport of curling from 2020 through 2022. From 2003 through 2005, Shane Coppola was the President, Chief Executive Officer, and Member of the Board of Directors of Westwood One, Inc., which was the largest radio network in the country. Mr. Coppola oversaw all aspects of Westwood’s operations, which generated $560 million in revenue and $180 million of EBITDA annually. From 1992-2002, Mr. Coppola served as Executive Vice President of Westwood and Metro Networks, Inc which was acquired by Westwood for approximately $1 billion. From 1989 through 1992, Mr. Coppola was a member of the Media and Entertainment Finance Group at TD Bank. Mr. Coppola earned an MBA from the University of Rochester’s Simon School of Business in 1989 and a BA (cum laude) from the University of Rochester in 1988. Mr. Coppola and his wife have three grown children and reside in Naples, FL.

A man with a shaved head smiling for the camera.
Shane Coppola – Chairman and CEO

Brad Berman – President, Chief Operations Officer

Mr. Berman has 33 years experience in the ice skating industry. To date, Mr. Berman has consulted in the design, construction, and operation of 28 facilities in ten states across the country. These facilities include multi-surface, ice, roller hockey, indoor soccer, fitness centers, golf facilities, and restaurant/sports bar components, as well as the training centers for the Los Angeles Kings, Pittsburgh Penguins, Phoenix Coyotes and the Anaheim Mighty Ducks of the National Hockey League. Mr. Berman was also the President, CEO, and founder of Iceoplex, from 1991-1997. During that time, Iceoplex was known as a premier developer/operator of eight ice skating entertainment centers that were opened across the country. In addition to reviewing, developing and/or negotiating new acquisition opportunities, Mr. Berman oversees the day-to-day operations of all AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC facilities including; on ice program development, insurance, risk management and AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC facility safety procedures. In addition to his professional business expertise, within the ice rink industry, Mr. Berman is a Master USA Hockey coach.

A man with long hair and a black shirt
Brad Berman – President, Chief Operations Officer

Kendra Giefski – CFO

Kendra holds a degree in Accounting and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and has 15+ years of industry experience. Kendra oversees all the facilities with respect to financial information, working closely with the General Managers and Administrative Assistants to achieve accurate results in recognizing income and expenses. Kendra manages the accounting staff and is responsible for timely financial reporting of all the facilities to management.

A woman smiling for the camera in front of a white wall.
Kendra Giefski – Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President

Gary Worobow - Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel

Gary has served as Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel since March 2024, building on his deep understanding of the organization gained through his long-standing involvement as an investor and advisor since 2006. He was previously Executive Vice President and General Counsel of GTN Limited (GTN:ASX) and its predecessor, Global Traffic Network, Inc, from 2009-February 2024 and a board member from 2006-2009. During his leadership at GTN Limited, he played a key role in the company's public offerings in the United States, its international expansion, the strategic sale of the company to a private equity firm, and its subsequent initial public offering in Australia. Gary also held the position of Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Five S Capital Management, Inc. from 2006 to 2009. Earlier in his career, as Executive Vice President, Business Affairs and Business Development for Westwood One, Inc./ Metro Networks Inc. from 2003 to 2006 and as Senior Vice President and General Counsel from 1999 to 2002, Gary was instrumental in Metro Networks, Inc.'s national roll-up, initial public offering (IPO) and its successful sale to Westwood One. Gary's legal and management background provides him with a deep and broad understanding of the business and legal environments in Australia, Canada, the UK, and Brazil. Gary holds a BA from the University of Rochester, an MBA from the Simon School, University of Rochester, and a JD from Fordham Law School.

Man in white shirt leaning on table.
Gary Worobow – Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel

Dean Hall – Executive Vice President

Mr. Hall currently holds the position of Executive Vice President. With over 25 years’ experience in the ice-skating industry, Mr. Hall oversees all operations, budgeting, revenue generation, management level hiring/ training reporting, and risk safety company-wide. Additionally, Mr. Hall works proactively with facility General Managers to improve operational efficiencies and help to ensure AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC achieves its operating expense budgets and EBITDA targets. Prior to attending Northern Michigan University, Mr. Hall was selected by the National Hockey League’s Boston Bruins in the fourth round of the 1986 NHL draft. His six-year professional hockey career took him to Germany and various NHL affiliates throughout the United States.

A bald man with a shaved head wearing a blue shirt.
Dean Hall – Executive Vice President

Michael Baxter – Executive Vice President

Southeast USA
Michael has worked in the North Carolina ice rink market since 1999, beginning at the Cary Ice House (now Polar Ice Cary).  During his 26 years in the sports industry he has overseen program operation and development, league management, building operations, staffing, management of director/management staff, technology integration, and budgeting.  Michael became the General Manager of the Sports Factory facility in Wake Forest, NC back in 2009 and began to oversee the entire NC market in 2014.  From 2014 through present day, Michael has grown to directly oversee 9 facilities between North Carolina and Texas, while also assisting ASEC’s facilities in New York and California.  Michael is known for his strong tie to the North Carolina sports market and his dedication to operating first class facilities

A bald man with a shaved head and black shirt.
Michael Baxter – Executive Vice President

Matt Mattatall – Director of Information Technology

Matt focuses his time on maintaining the company servers and implements high security standards across the company network. Prior to joining ASEC, Matt worked tirelessly as a system administrator, primarily in the healthcare industry in the world of computer management. He’s well versed in computer networking, including installation of hardware and software, and server/workstation maintenance. Matt utilizes the valuable technology skills that he’s acquired through the years, both on the job and through his continuing education in computer sciences. Matt’s love of technology and comprehensive problem-solving support shines through in his work ethic, while providing excellent customer service and a high quality work product.

A man with a beard and mustache wearing a blue shirt.
Matt Mattatall – Director of Information Technology

Jeff Clark – Senior Vice President, Business Development

Jeff assists the ASEC leadership team with identifying and developing business opportunities and strategies that drive company growth and profitability.  Before joining ASEC, he owned and operated the Pineville Ice House in Charlotte, North Carolina from 2009 to 2025.  He expanded and improved the quality of youth hockey, adult hockey and figure skating programs, oversaw extensive arena and building renovations, and added restaurant and retail operations.  Under his leadership, the rink evolved into a premier sports and entertainment destination for the Charlotte region.  Prior to 2009, Jeff worked in financial and commercial roles at Bank of America, ThyssenKrupp AG and US Steel Corporation.  He has an accounting degree from Valparaiso University and an MBA from the Yale School of Management.  Jeff and his wife have a son and daughter and live in Fort Mill, South Carolina.
Smiling man wearing glasses and blue shirt.
Jeff Clark – Senior Vice President, Business Development

Ken Weaver – Special Project Manager

Working on athletic facility installations and renovations since 2002, Ken has been involved with hundreds of projects across the United States and Canada. Also experienced in multipurpose facilities, Ken specializes in ice rinks. Having worked with local community rinks to many NHL teams and top college programs, Ken’s experience allows him to tailor results to the needs of the facility. As Special Project Manager, Ken is heavily involved in renovations and new builds for AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC. Using both contractors or in house employees, Ken leads from the front as the field representative for AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC.

A man wearing a yellow shirt and a hat.
Ken Weaver – Special Project Manager

Christopher Nelson – Director of Merit Excellence Engagement

Chris has been involved with the AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC family since its earliest beginnings from the year 1991 when it was originally under the operating name of Iceoplex. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin, he gained a Bachelor of Arts degree in African American Studies with a concentration in Women’s Studies and Communication. Chris won a National Championship with the Badgers as the 1st African American-born player to achieve this honor before embarking upon a professional ice and roller hockey career. After his playing career Chris ventured upon and still continues in the motion picture industry as a Technical Advisor to such movies and television shows as Miracle, Batman and Robin, Tooth Fairy, Love Guru, Biker Boyz, ER, Sons of Anarchy and The Neighborhood. Also during that time period he crafted his hospitality skills as a Concierge, Director and General Manager with Ian Schreger, Starwood, Marriott and Intercontinental Hotels for a 21-year stint. He now coaches 3 different teams at Toyota Sports Performance Center, 16AAA, 18AAA and the El Segundo Strikers in the High School League while simultaneously operating and owning Locker Room 13, a cleaning, storage and hospitality company focusing on the enhancement of the skater's experience. Chris remains as a coach, client, vendor and parent at the El Segundo, California location.

A man in a suit and tie smiling for the camera.
Christopher Nelson – Director of Merit Excellence Engagement

Facility Management Team

Darin Mathewson – General Manager

LA Kings Ice at Pickwick Gardens – Burbank, CA
With over 45 years of experience in the sport of figure skating and facility management, Darin brings a wealth of experience to the AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC family. Darin holds certificates in Ice Arena Management and Ice Arena Planning, Design, Engineering, Construction and Renovation. Early in his career, he was a Junior World Competitor representing Canada and Principal Performer in Holiday on Ice and Disney’s World on Ice for 10 years. Additionally, Darin was the founding mascot for the Anaheim Mighty Ducks from 1993-1995, branding Wild Wing, and participating in the formulation of his character and persona.

A man in black shirt smiling for the camera.
Darin Mathewson – Regional Director, California

Chance Berman – Regional Director, California

Toyota Sports Performance Center – El Segundo, CA
Chance started his working career in Extended Family Disability Services and Best Buddies programs in Phoenix, where he was an aide for the intellectually disabled. He grew up in ice rinks and has been playing hockey for 20+ years before he began working in them. He has trained and practiced in Muay Thai for 4+ years and has achieved his level 1 certification. Chance has also been a youth hockey coach and a Muay Thai instructor for all ages. Before working for AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC, he earned his Associates Degree in Business. His first role was the manager of Olaf’s Frozen Ice Rink in Downtown Disney. This was where he knew he wanted to be dedicated to working for AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC. He moved to Los Angeles in 2014 and began working in Toyota Sports Performance Center as a supervisor, working his way up to his current position. Throughout his time in Los Angeles he has been the Executive Director of LA Kings Holiday Ice, Manager of Olaf’s Frozen Ice in Downtown Disney,  Assistant General Manager, and General Manager of Toyota Sports Performance Center.

A man with a goatee smiles for the camera.
Chance Berman – Regional Director and General Manager Fifth Third Arena, Illinois

Cindy Zijlstra – Regional Director

Polar Ice Raleigh & Wake Forest – Raleigh, NC
Cindy has over 10 years of ice rink experience as a Hockey Director and General Manager. She came to AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC as the previous General Manager of Raleigh Center Ice in the spring of 2016, and is now the Regional Director of North Carolina. She plays an integral part with AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC’s relationship with the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes and multiple other user groups in the area. Cindy has an extensive coaching background as well as she has played a vital role in the Carolina Lightning program and the Carolina Eagles girls program.

A woman with long hair wearing a black shirt.
Cindy Zijlstra – Regional Director, North Carolina

Katherine Singleton– Executive Director

Ice at the Galleria – Houston, TX
Katherine is a lifetime member of the prestigious Mensa High IQ Society. She has over 20 years of rink experience with AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC starting as an hourly employee and working onward to Guest Services Manager, Administrative Assistant, General Manager and now is the Executive Director of Outdoor Facilities. She is responsible for rink development, design, construction, staffing and management of several outdoor facilities. Katherine is based in Texas and travels extensively for the company.

A woman in black shirt smiling for the camera.
Katherine Singleton– Executive Director, Ice at the Galleria

Bridget Donohue – General Manager

Westchester Skating Academy – Westchester, NY
Bridget has been with the AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC family since its inception in 2006 and has over 20 years of rink experience. Beginning as an ice attendant at Westchester Skating Academy, Bridget has been involved in all facets of the business including customer service, administration, operations, marketing, and program development, making her the perfect fit for her new role as General Manager for WSA and Play land Ice.

Bridget has also been the General Manager of AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC’s Seasonal Outdoor facility, Westchester’s Winter Wonderland at the Kensico Dam, since 2014. Coming from a skating family, Bridget has been figure skating since the age of 4, competing regionally and nationally in synchronized skating, pairs and singles.

A woman with long blonde hair and glasses.
Bridget Donohue – General Manager, Westchester Skating Academy

Mitch Eisenberg – General Manager

Cary / Garner – Raleigh, NC

Mitchell is a lifelong hockey enthusiast with deep roots in the Raleigh area, where he grew up playing and staying closely connected to the local rink community. A former player for the Erie Otters in the OHL, Mitchell went on to earn his degree in Sports Management from Duquesne University in 2017.
From 2018 to 2024, Mitchell played a pivotal role in developing and expanding the In House Hockey League, serving as a dedicated director. His leadership helped foster a thriving environment for youth hockey, promoting growth, accessibility, and a strong sense of community within the sport. Since June 2024, Mitchell has served as General Manager for both Cary and Garner. 
Man in blue jacket, neutral expression.
Mitch Eisenberg – General Manager, Polar Ice Cary and Garner

Michael Grabowski – General Manager

Wake Competition Center – Morrisville, NC

Michael has been involved in the North Carolina ice rink community since the early 2000’s when he moved to the area to attend NC State University.  Michael began work at the rinks during his college years, eventually running the Garner Ice House (now Polar Ice Garner) and subsequently being charged with the operation of the youth in house hockey league.  Michael’s background as a player and coach also propelled him to a head coaching position with the Junior Hurricanes Tier 2 national bound hockey program where he lead his team to the National Final.  Michael has a strong programming background and in depth knowledge of class and league operation while possessing great skills to assess their financial performance.  In recent years, Michael has served as an Operations Manager for multiple facilities in ASEC’s NC region and most recently promoted to the General Manager position of the Wake Competition Center in Morrisville.

Man in blue jacket with logo.
Michael Grabowski – General Manager, Invisilign Arena WCC

Frank Lombardy – General Manager

House of Sports – Ardsley, NY
Frank started his career in the Collegiate Athletics field, where he served as an Assistant Athletic Director for Marketing and Sales at Marist College for 5 years. Prior to his time at Marist, Frank worked for the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, where he oversaw the league’s television sponsorship activation. Frank has been the General Manager at the House of Sports since 2012, and joined on with AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC in August 2015.

A man with short hair and glasses is smiling.
Frank Lombardy – General Manager, House of Sports NY

Tim McKeag – General Manager

Polar Ice Wilmington – Wilmington, North Carolina
Tim grew up playing Hockey in North Carolina and attended The University of North Carolina Wilmington and played for the schools ACHA Hockey team. Tim was a 3-year captain of UNCW Hockey and ACHA Allstar before graduating with his bachelor’s degree in communications studies. While attending UNCW, Tim worked at the rink learning all the different roles within the ice rink business. Upon graduation Tim entered a career in Sales but later left sales to get back into his passion of hockey. After being the rinks youth hockey director and local skills coach, Tim took the role of General Manager when ASEC acquired the Wilmington Icehouse, now Polar Ice Wilmington.

Man smiling in blue shirt, neutral background.
Tim McKeag – General Manager, Polar Ice Wilmington

Ben Blandford – Facility Manager

LA Kings Ice Pickwick – Burbank CA

Ben was hired by LA Kings Ice to be Skating Director in 2019, where he played a key role in growing and refining the skating programs. In 2022, he added Operations to his responsibilities, gaining broader oversight of rink functions. And in 2023, he was promoted to Facility Manager. In this role, Ben continues to lead with a focus on excellence in programming, customer experience, and community engagement.

ChrisCrottyHS-TSPC100x133
Chris Crotty – General Manager, Toyota Sports Performance Center

Nick Camp – General Manager

Pineville Ice House – Charlotte, NC

Originally from Northern New York, Nick Camp came to the Pineville Ice House with rich hockey experience. Having coached youth all the way up to college hockey, he has utilized his knowledge to help grow the hockey programs at Pineville. Serving as the Hockey Director from 2006 to 2018, he increased the adult league from 21 teams in two leagues to 42 teams over six league levels.  He also doubled the size of the youth and travel hockey programs. Nick was promoted to General Manager in 2019 and has continued to push growth and quality across figure skating, youth hockey, adult hockey, facility operations as well as in the rink’s on site pro shop and restaurant. Nick became part of the ASEC Family in 2025.

NickCamp3x2
Nick Camp – General Manager, Pineville Ice House

Chris Crotty – General Manager

Toyota Sports Performance Center – El Segundo, CA

Chris comes to ASEC from the Los Angeles Kings Hockey Club where he spent for 19 years working in the Hockey Development Department.  During his time with the Kings, Chris was responsible for overseeing all initiatives with the Southern California hockey community.  Chris founded the Little Kings Learn to Play Hockey Program and the LA Kings High School Hockey League.  A former Division 1 lacrosse player from the University of Delaware, Chris also worked for the LA Riptide of Major League Lacrosse.

Man in suit with gray background portrait.
Ben Blandford – Facility Manager, LA Kings Ice Pickwick

Ron Caccavale – Regional Director of Operations

Westchester Skating Academy – Westchester, NY
Ron has worked in the ice rink industry for over 30 years and has a strong background in Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, Maintenance and Computers. As Regional Director of Operations for AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC, Ron oversees Play land Ice, House of Sports, and the Westchester Skating Academy, where he has been for the past 24 years. He has also helped coordinate the setup and training for several seasonal outdoor rinks for the past 10 years.

Ron has coached youth hockey for 29 years and was instrumental in the startup of the very successful Westchester Vipers Youth Hockey Organization.

A man in black jacket and glasses smiling for the camera.
Ron Caccavale – Regional Director of Operations, New York

James Vye – West Coast Regional Facilities Engineer

Toyota Sports Performance Center – El Segundo, CA
James Vye has been with the AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC family for 10 years. He began as the Operations Manager at the LA Galaxy Soccer Center, overseeing all facility operations. In 2018 James joined the team at the Toyota Sports Performance Center as the Facility Engineer, where he oversaw the rebranding and remodel of the entire facility. Recently, James was promoted to the position of Regional Facility Engineer overseeing five AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC facilities including, Toyota Sports Performance Center, home of the LA Kings and the UCLA Health Training Center, home of the LA Lakers. James is dedicated to ensuring that each facility is maintained and operating at the highest level of standards. Prior to joining AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC, James had over 15 years of residential and commercial construction and engineering experience.

A man in grey shirt and white shirt standing next to wall.

James Vye – West Coast Regional Facilities Engineer

Michael Campos – Facilities Manager

UCLA Health Training Center – El Segundo, CA
Michael Campos is a dedicated professional with six years of service in the United States Army, where he honed his leadership skills and strong work ethic. Michael has been at the UCLA Health Training Center since 2021. He collaborates closely with the Vice President and Director of Facilities and Building Operations to ensure the UHTC is kept to the highest standards. Known for his commitment and teamwork, Michael embraces challenge and continuously seeks to contribute to the success of the organization. 

Smiling person in a light blue shirt.
Michael Campos – Facilities Manager, United Health Training Center

Luis Guerra – Operations Manager

Ice at the Galleria – Houston, TX
Luis is originally from Mexico and has brought years of ice rink experience with him before joining the AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC Family in 2007. Luis is professional versed and is responsible for diagnosing all technical and mechanical issues. He and his staff work together to maintain the highest standard of sanitation and cleanliness of the facility. Luis has mastered the ice resurfacing machinery and equipment and is responsible for proper training of new employees.

A man in black shirt and white shirt looking at camera.
Luis Guerra – Operations Manager, Ice at the Galleria

Luc Rieger – Regional Director Operations, Wake Competition Center

Wake Competition Center – Morrisville, NC

Luc has been immersed in the Raleigh hockey community since 1997, playing youth hockey for several years. In 2006, his passion for hockey led him to become a referee, and he has officiated over 4000 games to date, ranging from youth hockey to the SPHL (Southern Professional Hockey League).

In 2016, Luc began his career with American Sports Entertainment Company, LLC, as the Adult Hockey Director for the then Polar Ice House facilities PAHL (Polar Adult Hockey League). His natural talent for understanding facility operations and diagnosing technical and mechanical issues led to his promotion to Operations Manager in 2020. In 2024, Luc was promoted to Regional Operations Director for Polar Ice NC, where he currently oversees the operations of all six facilities in North Carolina.

Man in blue polo shirt, smiling.
Luc Rieger – Regional Director Operations, North Carolina

Dan Kroll – Senior Director Operations, Fifth Third Arena

Fifth Third Arena – Chicago, IL

With 24 years of experience in the rink industry, Dan has built his career from the ground up. He began in concessions, learning every aspect of day-to-day rink operations, and gradually advanced to manager and then general manager. Since its opening in 2017, Dan has led the facility operations team at Fifth Third Arena.
Overseeing all facets of facility operation, building management, staff development and customer experience. Dan's focus has always been on creating a safe, efficient and enjoyable environment for guests and employees alike, while driving operational excellence and community engagement.

Dan-Kroll100x133
Dan Kroll – Senior Director Operations, Fifth Third Arena

James Robinson – Manager

Play land Ice – Westchester, NY
James has been a part of the AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC team since 2014 and has experience in the ice rink industry for over 15 years. Getting his start as a rink guard in 2002, James pushed forward and was promoted to head supervisor and eventually to Operations Manager. He currently holds the position of Manager and works diligently to maintain the historic Play land Ice rink and continues to show his dedication to the AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC team.

A man with a beard and mustache wearing a black shirt.
James Robinson – Manager, Playland Ice Casino

Carrie Harris – Office Manager

LA Kings Ice PV, CA
Born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. Carrie is a double gold medalist in freeskate and Skating Skills ( moves in the field). She is a synchronized national competitor and also holds a PSA registered rating for freeskating. 

Carrie has successfully taken skaters thru their senior gold test in skating skills and free skate test. She has also coached and  still coaching skaters to gold medals in local competitions. 
Graduating from California State University Long Beach, She has a BA in African American studies with extensive knowledge in Marketing management.  
 
Previously, Carrie was lead/director of a successful Learn to Skate program for over 7 years. Her moto is "Do What Your Heart Loves".
Smiling person with dark hair and background.
Carrie Harris – Office Manager, LA Kings Ice PV

Kristy Hemstreet – Regional Skating Director

Regional Skating Director – Raleigh, NY
Kristy grew up as a competitive figure skater in Michigan. Graduating from Oakland University with a BA in Philosophy, she then continued her career in coaching and began her Skating Director career in her home state.  After moving to North Carolina in 2013 due to a military move, she eventually found her home coaching amongst the Polar facilities.  Shortly thereafter, she began her professional career with ASEC in 2015 as the Skating Director for our Polar Ice Garner facility.  Bringing many years of hard work, dedication, and continued education to the table, she now oversees all five of our current facilities in the Raleigh Triangle area in North Carolina as the Regional Skating Director.  She achieved the area’s Learn to Skate program’s highest placement as the #2 Program in the Nation in the 2023-2024 skating season as well as the #1 Aspire Figure Skating Program in the Nation for the same season and looks forward to continued growth in the area for all skaters.

Smiling person with shoulder-length hair, black shirt.
Kristy Hemstreet – Regional Skating Director, North Carolina

Gabriella Weissmann – Executive Skating Director

Toyota Sports Performance Center – El Segundo, CA
A Los Angeles native, Gabriella is a two-time U.S. Junior National Figure Skating Competitor. Her coaching accomplishments have included leading singles skaters to multiple U.S. Figure Skating gold medals and guiding synchronized skating teams to qualify for the U.S. National Championships. In addition to her skating achievements, Gabriella was an international tennis player and went on to play Division 1 for Seattle University as their captain. She holds a B.A. in Political Science with a specialization in Legal Studies and finished her student-athlete career on the SU President’s List and recognized with an ITA Scholar-Athlete Award. Gabriella has been a part of the AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC family since 2015. She began her career with us as a professional skating instructor at the Toyota Sports Performance Center and in 2017 became the director of skating at TSPC. As the executive director of skating, Gabriella now oversees the skating programs across the region, and has developed the LA Skating Academy, which was recognized as the largest Learn to Skate USA member program in the United States with over 4,000 members during the 2022-2023 season. LASA now serves as the model and foundation for AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC’s skating programs throughout SoCal and includes a variety of programs underneath its umbrella including LA Synchro, Little Kings Academy Hockey Development Program and the Legacies Training Program for Competitive Figure Skaters.

A woman in black jacket smiling for the camera.
Gabriella Weissmann – Executive Skating Director, Toyota Sports Performance Center

Tom Krafick – Director of Security

UCLA Health Training Center – Home of the Los Angeles Lakers – El Segundo, CA
Tom comes to AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC from an extensive law enforcement career, beginning in his home State of Connecticut and culminating with a full-term retirement in 2016 from a South Bay police agency in Los Angeles County. During his 33-year career, Tom worked a variety of operational and administrative assignments with an emphasis on program development; training of personnel and staff; large scale, emergency, and tactical operational planning; special projects; and policy and procedure evolution. Tom has recognized the unique security program at UHTC and the relationship with the Los Angeles Lakers – an emphasis on training and security readiness coupled with the delivery of exceptional customer services for those that enjoy the extraordinary 5-Star UCLA Health Training Center.

Tom earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Justice and Law Administration from Western Connecticut State University and a Master of Science Degree in Emergency Management Services from California State University at Long Beach. Tom participated in leadership development at the Senior Management Institute of Police, the Los Angeles Police Department West Point Leadership Program, and the University of Southern California’s Safe Communities Institute.

A man with a beard and a black shirt
Tom Krafick – Director of Security, United Health Training Center

Jimmy Titiriga – Director of Security

Toyota Sports Performance Center – Home of the Los Angeles Kings – El Segundo, CA

Jimmy brings 30 years of public safety and leadership experience to his new role. He began a law enforcement career with the Torrance Police Department in 1995, following four years of service to our country as a United States Marine. Throughout his law enforcement career, Jimmy served in a wide range of assignments, including Patrol, SWAT and Special Investigations Division (Vice and Narcotics). As a Sergeant,  he provided leadership to Patrol and SWAT operations, as well as Internal Affairs and Community Lead Officer programs. While a Lieutenant, he was the Area Commander, SWAT and Crisis Negotiations Team leader, and commander of specialized units including Gangs, Personnel, and Services Divisions. As a Captain, he served as Patrol Bureau Commander and the Special Operations Bureau Commander where he oversaw Detectives, Traffic and Undercover Units.

Jimmy is a graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy and holds a Master’s Degree in Emergency Services Administration from California State University, Long Beach. With his extensive background in law enforcement, emergency management, and organizational leadership, I'm confident that he will help ensure a safe and secure environment for athletes, staff, and guests at the TSPC.

Jimmy-titiriga100x133
Jimmy Titiriga – Director of Security, Toyota Sports Performance Center

Jeffrey Latiker – Security Manager

Fifth Third Arena, IL
Jeff was introduced to the security world back in July 2009.   He started as a part-time security officer at the United Center for building security.  Jeff was given the opportunity to become a full-time officer immediately back in 2009.   From there he learned all aspects of security and became the Lead FTO (field training officer) and trained all new hires on all aspects of security.   In November 2017,  Jeff was hired by the Chicago Blackhawks as the Security Supervisor and then in 2018 was promoted to Security Manager to run the Fifth Third Arena security team.  

Jeff-latiker100x133
Jeffrey Latiker – Security Manager, Fifth Third Arena

Traci Decker – Regional Brand Manager

Polar Ice NC, NC
Traci brings over 20 years of Management and Marketing experience to AMERICAN SPORTS ENTERTAINMENT COMPANY, LLC as the General Manager of Cary and Garner Polar Ice House in NC. Traci’s career spans from Property Management, Sr. Regional Management in the collegiate sector, to a former sole proprietor of a successful loose-leaf tea business. Traci’s broad business background encompasses territory growth management, public and media relations, strategic market positioning, budget administration and P&L management, recruiting and staffing. The last 4 years as a Team Manager for youth hockey, Traci has been immersed in the world of skating and travel hockey with her two sons. Traci is a graduate of Western Carolina University with a B.A. in Communications and Minor in Marketing.

A woman with long red hair smiling for the camera.
Traci Decker – North Carolina Regional Brand Manager