Premier Head Coach

The Florida Eels are proud to announce the promotion of Coach Cookenmaster to Head Coach of the Florida Eels Premier team, marking the next chapter in a coaching career defined by dedication, leadership, and a relentless commitment to player development.

Since joining the Eels organization during the 2023-2024 season as an Assistant Coach with the Elite team, Cookenmaster has made an immediate impact. His hard work, hockey knowledge, and ability to connect with players quickly earned him a promotion to Assistant Coach of the Premier team the following season. After two successful years helping guide one of the USPHL’s premier programs, he now steps into the role of Head Coach, ready to lead the next generation of Eels players.

Throughout his time with the organization, Cookenmaster has been an integral part of the Eels’ continued success. He has coached and evaluated talent at the prestigious Pro-Am Pre-Draft Showcase and Senior Chowder Cup, helped the Eels capture multiple Florida Cup Championships, and stood behind the bench as the organization competed on the national stage at the USPHL Nationals.

Before beginning his coaching career, Cookenmaster built a strong foundation as a player. A Michigan native, he competed at the varsity level for the Manistee Chippewas and in AAA hockey with the Northern Michigan North Stars before advancing to the collegiate ranks with Lake Superior State University, where he played ACHA Division II hockey.

Following his collegiate career, Cookenmaster answered another call to serve, joining the United States Army as a Commissioned Officer. The discipline, leadership, accountability, and team-first mentality developed through his military service have become defining characteristics of his coaching philosophy and continue to shape the culture he brings to the Eels organization.

“I’m honored to be named the next Head Coach of the Eels Premier team,” said Cookenmaster. “This team has been a perennial powerhouse for quite some time, and I’m excited to carry on that tradition of winning while continuing to develop players both on and off the ice. Our goal remains the same—to prepare our athletes for the next level while competing for championships every season.”

The Florida Eels are excited for the future under Coach Cookenmaster’s leadership. With his experience, passion for developing young athletes, and unwavering commitment to excellence, the Premier program is well-positioned to continue its tradition as one of the nation’s premier junior hockey programs.

Email: cale@floridaeelsjrhockey.com