SMW Coaches

We're excited to announce that James Ronayne is coaching our 10U team this season. Coach Ronayne is a revered figure in our hockey community and a Buffalo State Athletics Hall of Famer.

James's rich career as a goaltender across multiple professional teams, highlighted by his pivotal role in securing the Knoxville Ice Bears their first city championship, showcases his deep understanding of the game. His coaching, rooted in extensive playing experience and years as a goaltending instructor and assistant coach, emphasizes tactical precision and mental fortitude.

Christopher Gallati – 10U Coach, Smoky Mountain Wild

Christopher Gallati grew up playing travel hockey throughout the Southeast and continued through high school. Over the past eight years, he has been a dedicated coach in Knoxville, working with players from Mini Mite through Bantam levels. For the last three seasons, Chris has also served as an assistant coach with multiple KAHA Prep teams. Passionate about youth development, he focuses on teaching strong fundamentals and fostering a positive, supportive environment where young players can grow both on and off the ice. Chris brings a deep passion for the game and takes pride in helping shape and inspire the next generation of southeastern hockey players.



Marcus Ortiz will be coaching our 12U team again this season! With a professional playing background that includes the ECHL and SPHL, and collegiate hockey at SUNY-Fredonia, Marcus's transition into coaching has been seamless.

His tenure as head skills coach at Cool Sports showcases his commitment to refining player skills at all levels. As the owner of MO2V8 Hockey Systems, Marcus brings a holistic approach to player development, fostering not only athletic skills but also strategic thinking and game intelligence.

Tim Sinasac is a highly experienced hockey coach and former professional player dedicated to developing young athletes both on and off the ice. Originally from Amherstburg, Ontario, Tim played at a professional level before transitioning into coaching, bringing a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience to the next generation of hockey players. 

He spent his major junior career playing in Canada before making his home in Knoxville TN with the Knoxville Speed of the United Hockey League (UHL). Known for his strong work ethic, leadership, and physical style of play, Tim was a key contributor on the ice and a respected teammate throughout his career. His experience playing at the pro level gives him deep insight into the discipline, skill development, and mental toughness required to succeed in the sport. 

He has been actively involved in coaching local youth hockey programs, focusing on skill development, hockey IQ, and fostering a love for the game. His coaching philosophy emphasizes hard work, teamwork, and a positive environment where players can develop their potential both on and off the ice. 

Tim’s dedication to the sport and his ability to connect with young athletes make him an invaluable part of the Knoxville hockey community. Through his experience, leadership, and passion for the game, he continues to help shape the next generation of hockey players. 

The Smoky Mountain Wild is proud to welcome Jesse Schultz as the 14U head coach for the 2025–26 season. Jesse is a former professional hockey player and current coach, known for his high-scoring career and veteran leadership. Born in Strasbourg, Saskatchewan, Schultz built an impressive pro résumé, including an NHL stint with the Vancouver Canucks and standout seasons in the AHL and ECHL. He earned ECHL MVP honors in 2019 with the Cincinnati Cyclones and finished his playing career as one of the league’s top scorers.

Now transitioning into coaching, Jesse has been actively involved in developing youth hockey players, bringing his passion, experience, and competitive spirit to the next generation.

Andrew Gallant is a former professional goaltender and standout NCAA player, known for his calm presence in net and competitive drive. A native of Summerside, PEI, he starred at Manhattanville College, earning the NCAA Division III Sid Watson Award as National Player of the Year in 2007. Gallant went on to play professionally in the AHL, ECHL, and SPHL—most notably with the Knoxville Ice Bears, where he helped lead the team to a President’s Cup title.

Andrew now brings his high-level playing experience to youth coaching. The Smoky Mountain Wild is proud to welcome him as the 14U head coach for the 2025–26 season.

Stefan Brucato is the Head Coach of the 2025–2026 Smoky Mountain Wild 16U/18U team! He is a seasoned leader with a standout career in both NCAA and professional hockey, Coach Brucato brings a wealth of experience and passion to the bench. His time as a Captain and Assistant Captain, combined with years in the SPHL — including standout seasons with the Knoxville Ice Bears and Birmingham Bulls — has shaped his coaching philosophy centered on hard work, professionalism, and integrity.

Brucato’s journey from NCAA standout to pro athlete, including a stint in the ECHL with the Tulsa Oilers, reflects the level of excellence he expects and inspires in his players. KAHA is thrilled to have him leading the way as we build a culture of accountability, development, and competitive success.

Robert Fail brings extensive experience from his professional playing career and coaching background. A former pro player in Europe and North America, he has competed at elite levels and transitioned into coaching and player development. 

Playing Career:

- Pro experience in Slovakia (Extraliga), USA (ECHL, WCHL, UHL, CHL), France (Elite), and Norway (GET League) 

- Slovak Junior National Team (U16-U20), Silver Medalist – 1999 World Winter University Games 

- French Magnus League Silver Medalist (ASG Tours) 

- Played in Norwegian Elite League (Sparta Sarpsborg, Trondheim Panthers, Rosenborg HC) 

Coaching Career: 

- Director of Hockey Operations & Head Coach – Rosenborg HC 

- Head Coach – U18 AAA Thunder Hockey (Tier 1 Elite) 

- Coach – Atlanta Thrashers Development Program 

- Lead Coach – Planet Hockey Camps 

With a global hockey background, Robert is dedicated to player development and helping athletes reach their full potential. 

Sam Haase is a passionate and dedicated hockey coach committed to developing young athletes both on and off the ice. In addition to coaching our co-ed teams, Sam is instrumental in growing the Smoky Mountain Lady Wild program, providing opportunities for young female athletes to develop their game in a supportive and competitive environment. 

Her coaching philosophy focuses on building confidence, improving fundamental skills, and instilling a love for the game in every player she mentors. Whether she’s guiding beginners or refining the abilities of more experienced players, Samantha is committed to creating a positive and encouraging atmosphere where every player can thrive. 

With her dedication to the sport and her players, Sam continues to be a driving force in expanding and strengthening youth hockey in the region. 

Jeff Monckton brings over 14 years of coaching experience, including the past four dedicated to hockey. Based in Knoxville, he currently leads both the Lady Wild and Wild teams with energy and commitment. Jeff is passionate about developing young players and takes pride in helping kids build confidence, learn teamwork, and grow their love for the game. He also serves as the head coach of the Tennessee Lady Ice Vols, where he plays a key role in growing girls’ hockey in the state. A lifelong Anaheim Mighty Ducks fan, Jeff shares his love of the sport with his two children, Maddie (10) and Maximus (7), who are both youth hockey players. He and his wife Alyson have been married for 12 years and are proud supporters of the local hockey community.