Associate Coach Jeremy Rochford

Current Team
Pittsburgh Emperors

Coach Jeremy Rochord brings five years of coaching experience and a deep passion for player development to the Pittsburgh Emperors. With a playing background from 12U hockey through ACHA college hockey, along with experience as a USA Hockey Level 4 on-ice official, he combines technical knowledge with a strong focus on mindset and confidence. Jeremy loves creating positive experiences and seeing the smiles that hockey brings to every player. Originally from Munhall, Pennsylvania, Jeremy is an Executive Function, Communication, and Relational Skills Coach. He’s also a proud parent of two incredible neurodivergent children and is passionate about creating inclusive spaces where athletes of all abilities can thrive. Away from the rink, he enjoys hockey, NASCAR, and a good cup of coffee. His favorite hockey memory is watching his son score his first competitive goal. Coach Jeremy’s advice to players: hard work matters, effort matters, and everyone belongs on the ice.

Years Coaching Hockey: 2

Hockey Background

Played 12U through ACHA College Hockey. USA Hockey On Ice Official Level 4. Rapidly Adult Leaguer 🙂

Favorite Part of Coaching the Emperors:

The Smiles and Experience(s)

Certifications or Training (if any):

Trauma-Informed Certified Life Coach

Certified Mental Health Coach, Certified Youth Mental Health Coach

Certified Personal Trainer

Certified Youth Exercise Specialist

Certified Behavioral Change Specialist

Certified Weight Loss Specialist

Certified Fitness Nutrition Specialist

Safe Sport Certified

USA Hockey Official Level 4. 


🧍‍♂️ Get to Know him 

Do you have kids or pets? 

I’ve got two amazing Autistic/ADHD and beyond children. If you play for the Emperor's you’re sure to meet one of them!

Favorite sports team (besides the Emperors 😉)

Pittsburgh Vengeance Special Hockey & Nashville Predators

What do you do outside of coaching? 

Executive Function, Communication & Relational Skills Coach

Favorite color

Kermit Green

What’s your favorite ice hockey memory?

Seeing my son score his first competitive goal

💬 Just for Fun (Great for Team Bonding!)

What's one piece of advice you’d give to young players?

Via Herb Brooks; “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”

Anything else you'd like players and families to know about you?

Being and ADHD- Autistic myself, I love how the Emperors hold space for individuals of any ability to enjoy Ice Hockey. If you’d like to learn more about me or what I do away from the rink, you can check out our family Podcast - Neuro FM. We promise, it’s the least depressing NeuroDivergent Podcast in the world!