NEXT SHIFT HOCKEY TEAM
Our team is made up of former players with varying playing experiences and networks within the game of hockey and beyond.
We are here to make the difference you need. To collaborate with the wisdom and support of the Next Shift team and network behind us, to turn your skills and ideas into success, and at the very least be a part of a community with similar interests and perspectives.
At Next Shift, everyone is a part of our team. Let’s conquer your Next Shift, whatever that may be, together.
About Us
SEAN COFFEY
Co-Founder
Sean Coffey was a rugged defensemen who never shied away from confrontation or sticking up for his teammates. After committing to Brown while playing Prep hockey at St. Sebastians in Needham, MA, Sean was one of the first New England players to leave Prep School early and play in the USHL. After decommitting from Brown, Sean’s only option was to walk-on at St. Lawrence University as a 21 year old Freshman. His career fizzled out after his Sophomore year at St. Lawrence University and after two hip surgeries, he transferred to Babson College to finish his schooling, majoring in Entrepreneurship. Sean now works as a Client Manager for a hockey agency, helping amateur athletes navigate the many options available and helping pro clients with their off-ice branding and philanthropic endeavors. He considered himself a “cautionary tale” of what not to do as a young prospect, but is committed to passing those lessons on to the players and families he works with today. Next Shift!
GEORGE HUGHES
Co-Founder
George Hughes, known as a "smooth skating, offensive defenseman" was an American professional player. Before turning Pro, Hughes played NCAA Men's Division 1 hockey for St. Lawrence University, where he was 2-year team captain. In his senior year of college, he was voted 2012-2013 All-American after leading the NCAA in defensive scoring - scoring 37 points in 38 games - and ultimately ending his collegiate career with 105 points in 150 NCAA games played. He made his professional debut at the end of the 2012–2013 season with the San Antonio Rampage of the American Hockey League and ended his career after a full season of playing for the Bakersfield Condors in 2013-2014. More recently, Hughes worked in sports media broadcasting for the NHL on NBC Sports, breaking down film, building highlight segments and pitching storylines for 6 years. Hughes is currently working with The Shift Group where he is recruiting and guiding athletes into sales professionals and other roles, as well as connecting companies with new hires. In addition, he is also still on the ice serving as Head Coach of AAA Mid Fairfield Jr. Rangers Bantam team in Connecticut and giving private lessons.
RYAN COFFEY
Co-Founder
Ryan Coffey was a ”jack of all trades” hockey player, playing all positions at every level he found himself. During high school with St. Sebastian’s, Ryan was a 4 year letter winner. Switching to defense in his senior year, Ryan was 3rd in all of Prep Hockey Defense Scoring, while also earning All-ISL Honorable mention honors. He played his fall seasons for the Neponset Valley River Rats, serving as the Captain for 2 years. After high school, Ryan played for the South Shore Kings and Bay State Breakers of the Eastern Junior Hockey League. After two years in the junior ranks, Ryan walked on at St. Lawrence University, earning a spot on the team for 2 years. After never getting any game action, Ryan decided to call it quits in his hockey journey, and began to focus on his “Next Shift” which has led him to a career in Insurance for Havern Benefits Strategies. Ryan believes his experience as a highly touted teenager that ultimately led to a very lackluster college career, gives him a great story to tell for all younger players to never let your foot off the gas, get better every day and do not think talent alone will get you where you want to be.
