Lacey McCuean

Coach Lacey brings a strong playing background and a passion for player growth to the Pittsburgh Emperors. She began playing hockey at 15, becoming the first female at Blackhawk High School to earn a varsity letter, and went on to compete at the AAA and collegiate club levels. She also represented the Ireland National Team, earning a bronze medal.

A veteran of the Air National Guard with 13 years of service, Lacey combines leadership, discipline, and a team-first mindset both on and off the ice. She currently works as a motor vehicle appraiser and enjoys traveling, exploring national parks, and spending time with her partner and pets.

Coach Lacey’s favorite part of coaching is seeing players smile and grow through the game. Her advice: If you fall down, brush it off and keep going—every day is a chance to learn.

Years Coaching Hockey: 1

Hockey Background

I have played hockey since the age of 15, beginning with my high school team at Blackhawk, where I became the first female to earn a varsity letter in hockey. I further developed my skills by competing at the AAA level with Team Pittsburgh and the Allegheny Badgers. Beyond my own playing experience, I have also shared my passion for the sport by teaching my oldest nephew how to skate at just two years old and conducting skill drills in my childhood home.
After high school, I continued my hockey career at the collegiate club level, playing for both California University of Pennsylvania and Slippery Rock University. Following college, I transitioned into ball (street) hockey, competing on multiple teams and contributing to numerous championship wins. In 2015, I had the honor of representing the Ireland National Team, where we earned a bronze medal.

Favorite Part of Coaching the Emperors:

I would have to say my favorite part of Coaching the Emperors is seeing all the kids smiles while they are doing what they love and showing and supporting them through the adventure and love of the game.

🧍‍♂️ Get to Know her 

Do you have kids or pets? 

2 cats - Mila and Maddox 1 dog - Kona

What do you do outside of coaching? 

Outside of coaching I am a motor vehicle appraiser at Centerline Collision. I love spending time with my partner and pets. We love going to the beach and random adventures , most recently we have been trying to go to as many national parks as possible !

Favorite food

Anything my partner cooks! She is the best cook!

Favorite color

Sage green

If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

Hmm that’s tough but it would be fun to be able to fly !

What’s your favorite ice hockey memory?

I would have to say traveling to tournaments and playing mini sticks in the hallway with my teammates.

💬 Just for Fun (Great for Team Bonding!)

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

If you fall down, brush it off and keep going. Every day is a learning experience. We all have bad days and good days and that’s okay! 

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

I am an open book if there is something you or your kiddo wants to know ask me ! 
I absolutely love getting to know all of you! I am dedicated to helping not only the kids but each and every family in any way possible. Hockey has a way of bringing people together and I’m so excited to be a part of your hockey journey!