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Patrick Hillary

Patrick Hillary

Assistant Women's Hockey Coach

Patrick Hillary joined the Aquinas College women's hockey coaching staff in 2026, bringing more than four decades of playing experience and nearly 14 years of coaching experience at multiple levels of the game.

As an Assistant Women's Hockey Coach, Hillary works alongside Head Coach Taelynn Otte to develop student-athletes on and off the ice. Entering his seventh season coaching with Otte, he has helped mentor numerous players who have gone on to compete at the collegiate level while contributing to multiple state championships and national tournament appearances.

A graduate of Grand Rapids Catholic Central, Hillary continued his hockey career playing club hockey at Grand Valley State University. Throughout his coaching career, he has worked at the house, AAA, girls travel and ACHA men's hockey levels, building a reputation for developing players and fostering a positive team culture. Away from the rink, Hillary is a business owner and Licensed Master Plumber.

Hillary chose Aquinas because of his long-standing respect for Otte's leadership and the College's mission. Having attended Catholic schools himself and with many family members and friends who are Aquinas alumni, he felt an immediate connection to the culture and values of the institution.

Outside of hockey, Hillary enjoys hunting, golf, pickleball and spending time with his family.

Quick Facts

Position: Assistant Women's Hockey Coach

Joined Aquinas: 2026

Hometown: Rockford, Michigan

Education:

  • Grand Rapids Catholic Central
  • Grand Valley State University

Professional Experience:

  • Business Owner
  • Licensed Master Plumber

Previous Coaching Experience:

  • House Hockey
  • AAA Hockey
  • Girls Travel Hockey
  • ACHA Men's Hockey
  • 14 years as an assistant coach
  • Seven seasons alongside Head Coach Taelynn Otte

Notable Accomplishments:

  • Helped coach multiple state championship teams
  • Assisted with multiple national tournament appearances
  • Helped develop numerous collegiate hockey players

Family:

  • Wife: Maria
  • Daughters: Allison and Rachel

Hobbies: Hockey, hunting, golf, pickleball and spending time with family