The Florida Jr. Blades are proud to announce that Rob Weingartner is joining FJB as the new Director of Hockey Operations and Head Coach, as well as Brian Jacque as the Associate Head Coach of the Florida Jr. Blades.

“The Ownership Group for the Florida Jr Blades are very excited to have two coaches of this caliber leading our junior program, both individuals are high character and extremely talented Coaches. “stated Ron Kinnear, President of the Florida Jr. Blades.

Our Junior Everblades Youth Organization is very excited to see these new additions to the Jr. Blades organization. It was evident from our conversations with Rob that his background in youth hockey and interest in collaboration with JEB Hockey Director, Tony Lessel to expand our development program and provide a great opportunity for players to grow from recreational hockey, to competitive travel and then on to Juniors, all in the same excellent facility. We look forward to seeing Rob and Brian help us reach our collective goals of teaching our young men and women this wonderful sport.” stated David Shepard, Executive Director of the Florida Everblades Hockey Association.

Rob Weingartner:

A level 4 USA Hockey Certified Coach, Rob Weingartner brings over 30 years of hockey experience to the Jr Blades organization. For the past 8 seasons, Rob has managed and coached the Wichita Jr Thunder of the WSHL, highlighted by capturing the Thorne Cup in 2017.

Rob’s coaching career began as an Assistant Coach for the Wichita Thunder (CHL) from 2005 to 2007 where he was then named Head Coach for the remainder of the 2007-08 season. Rob has also been instrumental in his commitment to developing youth hockey programs in his areas and has instructed numerous hockey camps throughout his career.

Brian Jacque:

With 18 years of hockey experience, 8 years of coaching experience and is a Level 4, Brian Jacque is looking to breathe new life into the Florida Jr. Blades as the new Associate Head Coach.  For the past year, Brian has coached the South Shore Kings Premier and 18U team of the USPHL.

Brian began coaching the Illiana Blackbirds of the MNJHL in 2014-2015 as the assistant coach. He then went on to work in multiple coaching positions until being named Head Coach of the South Shore Kings in 2019. Brian is a dedicated youth hockey coach whose experience and drive will in improving the Florida Jr. Blades organization.

Florida Jr. Blades are members of the USPHL consisting of the top Junior Programs in the US, we are committed to the overall development of the student-athlete, a cornerstone of our philosophy and continued success.

For more information on the Florida Jr. Blades, please reach out to Ron Kinnear at ronkinn@icloud.com; Rob Weingartner at rweingartnerjrblades@gmail.com; or Brian Jacque at bjacquejrblades@gmail.com;