Tara Kessler

Assistant Coach

Years Coaching Hockey: 1

Tara Kessler brings a lifelong love of hockey to her first season coaching with the Emperors. A Pittsburgh native who grew up playing and watching the sport, she loves helping young players build confidence, develop skills, and enjoy every moment on the ice. Off the rink, Tara works for the federal government and stays active with hobbies like pickleball, golf, hiking, and traveling. Known for her upbeat energy and player-first approach, she encourages all young athletes to believe in themselves, work hard, and dream big.
Hockey Background

Played ice hockey and intramural hockey when I was younger for a few years (started around age 8). I am a lifelong fan of ice hockey and grew up watching my brothers play high school hockey and also watching the Pens. LGP!

Favorite Part of Coaching the Emperors:

Meeting the kids where they are at in their ice hockey journey and watching them improve and become more confident each week. I look forward to seeing them smile and having fun!

🧍‍♂️ Get to Know her 

Where are you from originally? 

Pittsburgh, PA (Scott Township)

Do you have kids or pets? 

No kids. A cat who behaves more like a dog. He sits, gives paw, lies down, plays dead, wags his tail, greets you at the door, and plays hide and seek and tag. He is motivated by treats and belly rubs.

What do you do outside of coaching? 

I work for the federal government. Some of my hobbies are reading books, binge watching shows on Netflix, listening to podcasts, doing puzzles, playing board games, traveling, playing pickleball, golfing, hiking, bike rides, crafts and woodworking, making wine, and riding around in my Jeep or taking short weekend roadtrips. I recently began playing recreational volleyball once a week. I also enjoy attending sporting events (Pittsburgh teams and Penn State) and going to see live music, comedy shows, or theater.

Favorite hobby or pastime

I would have to say pickleball and golf.

Favorite food

Pizza and salad

Favorite toy or game when you were a kid

Playing hockey in the basement with my brothers or in the alley with kids in the neighborhood.

What’s your favorite ice hockey memory?

Having to prove myself as the only girl on the team.

💬 Just for Fun (Great for Team Bonding!)

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

Believe in yourself and dream big. Anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and consistency.

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

I want to know more about what motivates you and what your goals are with ice hockey. I’d like to know what goals the parents have in mind for their kids this season.