About Russell Barone:

Russell Barone is the Founder and Lead Instructor of Dynamic Hockey Development (DHD). He grew up in the Chicago youth hockey system and went on to play junior hockey in the NA3HL before competing in NCAA hockey at Gustavus Adolphus College, where he earned a degree in Exercise Physiology. He is also a Certified Personal Trainer (NASM), combining movement science with on-ice skill development.

Over the last several years, Russell has coached across multiple levels—including Tier 1 AAA, high school varsity, and junior hockey—and has helped players advance to NCAA Division I and III, ACHA, NAHL, NCDC, Tier I AAA programs. His coaching experience includes roles with Gilmour Academy 16U AAA, Breck High School, the Odessa Jackalopes (NAHL), and the Minnesota Blue Ox (USPHL Premier).

Russell’s approach blends skating mechanics, puck skills, shooting, decision-making, and game transfer with structured off-ice performance work. He focuses on clear instruction, honest feedback, and individualized development plans to help each athlete make consistent, meaningful progress.

Playing Career:

NA3HL Junior Hockey
Russell played 105 NA3HL games, totaling 80+ points with a cumulative +26 rating across three seasons. During his time in the league, he earned recognition including Defenseman of the Month nominees, Top Prospects honors, and other league-level acknowledgments, while producing offensively and playing responsibly at both forward and defense positions.

NCAA – Gustavus Adolphus College
At Gustavus, Russell appeared in 16 NCAA games his freshman season, recording 4 goals. He led the team in goals per games played, and he finished the season with the most game-winning goals on the roster with 3.

ACHA – Gustavus Adolphus College
After his NCAA career, Russell decided to player/coach the ACHA hockey program at Gustavus, where he produced 9 goals and 7 assists for 16 points in 9 games and helping lead the team to the conference championship game.

Coaching & Development:
Russell’s coaching career includes:

• USPHL Premier – Minnesota/Northern Blue Ox (Associate Head Coach/Strength & Conditioning Coach/Skills Coach)
• NAHL – Odessa Jackalopes (Assistant Coach/Strength & Conditioning Coach/Skills Coach)

• Breck High School – Varsity
 (Assistant Coach/Strength & Conditioning Coach/Skills Coach)

• Gilmour Academy – 16U AAA (Assistant Coach/Strength & Conditioning Coach/Skills Coach)

He has developed players who have advanced to:

• NCAA Division I

• NCAA Division III

• ACHA D1 - D3
• NAHL

• NCDC

• Tier I AAA
/HS Varsity