Matthew Ford – Founder of Ford Hockey School
Matthew Ford is the founder of Ford Hockey School (FHS), a premier hockey development program based in the Chicagoland area. After a successful 12-year career in professional hockey, Ford transitioned from player to coach, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep passion for teaching the game to players of all ages and skill levels.
Ford’s career includes being drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft, winning a National Championship with Shattuck-St. Mary’s in 2003, and capturing an NCAA National Championship with the University of Wisconsin Badgers in 2006. Ford also achieved a Calder Cup Championship with the Grand Rapids Griffins in 2017. Over the course of his professional career, Ford played alongside some of the biggest names in hockey, including Sidney Crosby, Leon Draisaitl, Joe Pavelski, and many other NHL stars.
Founding Ford Hockey School
In 2020, Ford founded Ford Hockey School with the mission of helping players master the fundamentals of hockey and develop a deep understanding of the game. FHS’s training approach is centered on purposeful development, focusing on teaching players not only how to execute skills but also why and when to apply them in different game situations.
Ford’s coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of hockey IQ and strategic thinking, ensuring that players not only improve their technique but also gain a comprehensive understanding of the game. This combination of skill development and mental acuity has helped FHS become a trusted resource for players of all levels, from beginners to professionals.
Training Players of All Ages and Skill Levels
Since its founding, Ford Hockey School has trained players ranging from ages 4 to 75+, including learn-to-play programs, youth hockey, junior, collegiate, and professional players. The school has earned a reputation for helping players improve their skills and hockey intelligence, regardless of their experience level.
In addition to working with local hockey organizations, Ford’s influence extends beyond the Chicagoland area. FHS runs Hockey & Sons camps in Minnesota, a state known for its rich hockey tradition, and partners with multiple youth organizations to help players build a strong foundation as they begin their hockey journeys.
A Program Built on Purpose, Passion, and Values
As a father of hockey-playing sons, Matthew Ford understands the importance of creating a positive, supportive environment for all players. Ford Hockey School is about more than just developing hockey skills—it’s about fostering well-rounded athletes who understand the values of hard work, teamwork, and discipline. Ford’s approach to coaching is rooted in purposeful training, where players not only improve their technique but also learn to think the game strategically, building well-rounded athletes who are prepared for success both on and off the ice.
Michael Turner
Former Professional Hockey Player | Coach | Skills Trainer
Michael Turner is a former professional hockey player and current coach specializing in both private and team skill development. Throughout his career, Turner achieved success at every level, including being part of Team USA’s Gold Medal-winning squad at the 2011 World Junior A Challenge and winning a Prep School Championship with Cushing Academy in 2012. His time in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) was highlighted by an OHL Championship and Memorial Cup victory in 2014-2015. Turner played professionally for six years, gaining invaluable experience and insight into the demands of competing at the highest levels of hockey.
Now, as a coach, Turner is dedicated to helping players and teams reach their full potential. His training philosophy centers on the belief that small, consistent improvements every day—what he calls the "1% philosophy"—are key to long-term success. Turner focuses on not only refining individual skills but also enhancing team dynamics, helping players develop the technical, tactical, and mental aspects of the game.
Turner’s training sessions, whether one-on-one or with teams, are highly personalized and tailored to meet the specific needs of each player and group. Whether it’s improving skating, shooting, puck handling, or overall hockey IQ, Turner ensures that every drill is designed to build a strong foundation for improvement. For team development, Turner emphasizes communication, strategy, and creating chemistry on the ice to help teams perform as cohesive units.
A major focus of his coaching is on mindset and leadership, drawing from his own experiences with high-level coaches like DJ Smith. Turner teaches players to embrace the "1% approach"—continually striving for improvement, overcoming adversity, and setting goals that push them beyond their current limits. His training also helps players translate their skills and learning into real-game situations, improving their decision-making, game awareness, and overall performance.
By combining technical skill development with mental resilience, leadership training, and a focus on team dynamics, Turner is equipping players and teams to succeed at the highest levels, both on and off the ice.
“I would personally recommend the Ford Hockey School to anyone interested in learning the game of hockey from a cerebral level and how to implement those skills on the ice. Matt Ford is an exceptional teacher, showing patience, knowledge, skill, and mind/body awareness. Matt easily relates to both young and old, communicating and teaching so that the player feels confident and able to learn.”
- Troy WARD (40 years of Coaching experience that includes NHL & Ncaa D1)
“Coach Matt and his coaching staff at Ford Hockey School are unmatched in skills development. He has had a major impact on my boys' hockey journey. He’s worked with all of my kids ranging from Mite into Bantam. Matt is an exceptional skills coach and has a unique ability to connect with young players. His impact on their game has been huge.
Coach Matt's prioritizes practicality ensuring that every session is packed with game-usable instruction and skills. Unlike other coaches who rely on robotic drills, Coach Matt's approach emphasizes on-ice applicability, giving the kids the tools they need to succeed in real game situations. Time and again, I've witnessed my boys execute maneuvers or tactics learned from Coach Matt's practices during their games, a testament to his effective coaching. His impact on their development as players cannot be overstated.Coach Matt's is really good at connecting with the skaters. Through clear communication and genuine rapport, he commands the respect and attention of his players without needing to raise his voice. His ability to command respect while maintaining a supportive environment is so beneficial to the kids. Matt’s unmatched skills coaching and genuine connection with young athletes sets him apart from the rest. I wholeheartedly recommend Coach Matt to any hockey player seeking to not only to improve his or her skills, but make true gains on the ice!” - Chicago Hockey parent of 4 Boys
