Emma Hoch was named the Head Coach of the Aquinas College women's hockey program in spring of 2025, becoming the fifth coach in program history. A Lansing native with a deep-rooted passion for hockey and player development, Hoch brings a unique blend of NCAA playing experience, coaching insight, and leadership in both athletics and human services to her role at Aquinas.
Hoch began her collegiate journey at St. Mary's University of Minnesota, where she competed in NCAA Division III hockey while pursuing a degree in Psychology. She later transferred to Michigan State University, graduating with honors and earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Human Behavior and Public Policy.
With over five years of experience in talent acquisition, team coordination, and staff development, Hoch has honed a skill set centered around communication, organization, and performance management. She’s worked in full-cycle healthcare recruiting, managed onboarding processes across multiple disciplines, and served in direct support roles within education and behavioral health settings—including as a behavioral therapist and special education paraprofessional.
Hoch’s hockey background is equally extensive. A product of Michigan’s elite AAA hockey pipeline, she skated for programs including the Lansing Spartans, West Michigan Elite, Meijer, Belle Tire/Victory Honda, Honey Baked, and the Lansing Capitals. She was a part of the 2013 LCAHL Playoff Champions and a key member of the fourth American team to win the International Silver Stick Tournament—earning MVP honors in the championship after netting the opening and game-winning goals. That team’s name now resides in the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto.
Her individual accolades include being named Best Defensive Player by the Meijer AAA 19U program (2017–18) and MVP of the Silver Stick Tournament (2013). Beyond the rink, Hoch has volunteered with the Miracle League, supported young adults in ministry roles, and continues to give back to the community.
Hoch lives in Lansing, Michigan with her husband Charlie and their three rescue cats. Her family is deeply embedded in higher education and hockey—her brother Noah is the Assistant Coach for the Aquinas men's D1 hockey program, while her parents work at Michigan State University and Lansing Community College.
“I’m really excited and eager to coach women’s hockey,” Hoch shared. “After taking a break from the sport, I’m thrilled to return to the game I love. Working alongside Brandon and being a part of the shared vision to grow both the men’s and women’s programs at Aquinas is truly special.”
In her free time, Emma enjoys watching Formula One, reading mystery novels and biographies, bingeing crime shows, crocheting Amigurumi items, tackling home projects, and spending time with her family.
