HO-HO-KUS, N.J. - The Atlantic Affiliate is thrilled to announce the appointment of Vince Malts as the new Director of Mindset & Performance for the USA Hockey Player Development Program in the footprint. Malts brings a wealth of experience and a unique skill set to the department, solidifying the affiliate's commitment to enhancing player and coach development through comprehensive mentorship and leadership programs.

A pioneering mindset performance coach, Malts was the first of his kind to be hired in the NHL, setting a new standard for integrating mental performance into professional sports. Over the past 35 years, he has dedicated his life to playing and coaching at highly committed levels of competition. His journey began as a player in the Atlantic Affiliate, where he grew up and developed a passion for the game. He went on to play professionally for over a decade and has coached across youth, junior, and professional levels.

For the last 10 years, Malts’ coaching focus has been on mindset and performance development, helping athletes maximize their potential both on and off the ice. His expertise in this field is unparalleled, making him an invaluable asset to the Atlantic Affiliate's player development initiatives.

"We are incredibly excited to welcome Vince Malts to our team. His deep-rooted connection to the Atlantic District and his groundbreaking work in mindset performance coaching make him the perfect fit for this role,” said Atlantic Affiliate Director of Player Development John DiNorcia. “Vince's unique approach will undoubtedly elevate our player development programs, providing our athletes and coaches with the mentorship and leadership skills they need to succeed. His vision aligns perfectly with our commitment to fostering a holistic development environment."

As the Director of Mindset & Performance, Malts will work closely with DiNorcia to implement innovative and evidence-based strategies aimed at enhancing the mental fortitude and high-performance capabilities of players throughout the Atlantic Affiliate. His role will involve creating tailored programs that focus on mental performance, leadership development, and overall well-being, ensuring that both players and coaches have the tools they need to thrive in highly competitive hockey environments.

"I am honored to join the USA Hockey, Atlantic District team and to contribute to the development of the next generation of hockey players," said Malts. "Having grown up in this district, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities our players face. I look forward to working alongside John and the entire team to create a positive and impactful development experience for all."

The addition of Vince Malts to USA Hockey’s Atlantic Affiliate Player Development Program underscores the organization's dedication to providing comprehensive support to its athletes. Malts’ expertise will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of hockey in the region, helping players achieve their full potential both on and off the ice.