Heickert comes to Bryn Athyn with a strong hockey background and a career in the fitness performance industry where he owns his own performance gym.
Heickert said, "I am honored to be the next coach for Bryn Athyn hockey. I am looking forward to being a part of the long and successful hockey tradition at Bryn Athyn."
Heickert was born and raised in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. He started skating at 4 years old and was playing AAA by 8 years old. Ryan started his minor hockey with his hometown (Oshawa) before moving on to play in Toronto for the Toronto Red Wings. Ryan played his junior hockey in the OPJHL for 4 years. He was a 3-year captain and leading scorer for the Oshawa Legionaries, Ontario. Ryan was then traded to the Wexford Raiders in his final year.
Following his Junior career; Ryan moved to Aston, Pa to attend Neumann University and played hockey for the Knights. As a collegiate athlete, he helped lead the team to an ECAC West Championship and NCAA DIII National Championship in 2009. Ryan's accolades include being a team captain, ECAC West All academic team 05-09, Team Defensive Player of the year 2005, Team Coaches Award 2009 and played in 100 college career games. Upon graduation, Heickert pursued his Masters degree at Neumann while also assuming the role as assistant coach for the men's ice hockey team.
Heickert shared, "I know the community takes huge pride in the Lions and has a rich hockey culture that I can not wait to experience and hopefully add to. Go Lions."
