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SNAPSHOT
Name: AJ Bucchino
Hometown: Hudson, WI
Date of Birth: May 8, 1984
Born: Bow, NH
Citizenship: American 🇺🇸
Education: Wisconsin River Falls
Current Role: Advisor
Personal Website: https://accountableathletics.com/
BIO
A.J. Bucchino is a former professional goaltender turned elite-level coach, GM, and advisor with over 15 years in the game. Known for his leadership, development-first approach, and sharp hockey IQ, Bucchino has helped hundreds of athletes reach the next level. From the NAHL to international advisory roles, his influence is felt across junior, collegiate, and pro ranks.
- Former NCAA All-American goaltender
- Former NAHL Head Coach & GM (Minnesota Magicians)
- Trusted advisor at MAP Hockey
- Developer of NCAA commits and pro athletes
COACHING HISTORY
Head Coach, Minnesota Magicians (2018–2021)
Head Coach, Lakeville South HS (2016–2018)
Director of Player Development, Protec Jr. Ducks (2021–2022)
Advisor, MAP Hockey (Present)
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
- NAHL Central Division Coach of the Year – 2020
- Minnesota High School State Tournament Coach – 2017
- NCAA All-American Goaltender – University of Wisconsin-River Falls
- Multiple player development recognition honors from USA Hockey
PLAYING CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
A.J. Bucchino was a standout NCAA goaltender before launching a multi-league pro career:
- NCAA All-American – University of Wisconsin-River Falls
- Played in ECHL, CHL, SPHL (Augusta Lynx, Utah Grizzlies, Louisiana IceGators)
EDUCATION & CERTIFICATIONS
- Master’s degree – Sports Management
- Pursuing doctorate – Sports & Performance Psychology
- USA Hockey coaching certification
- Leadership/development training – MAP Hockey
COACHING PHILOSOPHY
“My coaching is rooted in development, structure, and leadership. I don’t just coach the player—I help shape the person. We play to win, not play not to lose. Structure gives us freedom, and every detail matters.”
CORE PILLARS:
- High-performance culture
- Player-first development
- Accountability and structure
- Communication with purpose
- Mental & physical growth
MEDIA & PRESS FEATURES
SOCIAL MEDIA
LinkedIn
HOCKEY LINKS
Business Website
MAP Hockey
Elite Prospects
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TESTIMONIALS
“AJ changed the way I approached the game. He gave me confidence, direction, and the belief I could make it.”
– NCAA Goalie
“He’s more than a coach—he’s a mentor for life.”
– Parent of NAHL Player
CONTACT
Now accepting new athletes/families into MAP Hockey advisory.
- Email: aj.bucchino@gmail.com
- MAP Hockey: https://maphockey.com
- Book a Consult: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/accountableathletics/1418816
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