Cornerstone MIAMI UNIVERSITY FINANCE AND BUSINESS SERVICES
Simultaneously, the ACHA club program grew under Ackley’s leadership, evolving from one men's team to four competitive squads — two men’s and two women’s teams. The Women’s D1 team celebrated three national championships, while the Men’s D2 team achieved two national runner-up finishes, securing Goggin’s national reputation as a hub for excellence in club hockey. Ackley credits several key figures for influencing his approach to leadership and success: • Cody Powell – For analytical goal-setting. • Doug Curry – For demonstrating patience and calmness. • Mitch Korn – For emphasizing preparation. • Steve Cady – For modeling integrity and excellence. A personal favorite tradition of Ackley’s is the “Ice Out Grill Out”, a casual and heartfelt gathering with staff to celebrate the end of the season. More than a tradition, it represents the camaraderie, trust, and shared purpose that defined his years at Goggin.
A DEDICATED CAREER: CELEBRATING KEVIN ACKLEY’S LEGACY AT GOGGIN ICE CENTER After nearly two decades of profound dedication to ice sports and the Miami University community, Kevin Ackley, a familiar and respected face at the Goggin Ice Center, is beginning a new professional chapter. Known for his steadfast leadership, genuine character, and commitment to excellence, Ackley leaves behind a legacy that has shaped not just the ice rink, but generations of athletes, staff, and families in Oxford. What initially brought Ackley to Goggin was a passion for “working in ice sports and with the Miami community.” One of his earliest memories includes the hard work and teamwork it took to open the new Goggin facility for its first summer, and the success of those early Hockey Camps that helped kids gain confidence while being away from home. While the tools and methods have changed, Ackley emphasizes that the mission has remained steady: “How we accomplish the task has changed, but we are still service-oriented and have a standard of excellence.” It’s that commitment to service, excellence, and the people that kept him at Goggin for so long, making Oxford and Miami “a great place to work and start a family.” Among Ackley’s proudest achievements are the exponential growth of Miami Youth Hockey (MYH) and the rise of Goggin’s American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) teams. MYH expanded from just 20 participants in 2006 to a full suite of travel and house league teams, building a strong pipeline for local talent and community engagement.
What will he miss most? “The commitment to the building, each other, and excellence.” And when asked how he hopes to be remembered, he answered simply: “Committed, honest, and dedicated to Goggin and their success.” Here are some kind words for those who worked alongside him: “Thank you Kevin for a great 19 years at Goggin and Miami. Your drive helped shape the ‘New Goggin’ into one of the best-run ice arenas in the country. Your vision and dedication to Goggin’s student and community programs has positively impacted the lives of a generation of hockey players, ice skaters, and Miamians. We will all miss you and wish you and your family the best in your new adventure.” — Jon Elliott “At first, I was led to believe Kevin was an intimidating boss. After I began working here, I realized that could not be further from the truth. Kevin was nothing short of kind, understanding, and patient with me. He went out of his way to help me not only in my duties here at the ice arena, but offered to do everything in his power to help me advance my career in the hockey world, providing both connections and opportunities, as well as great advice. I have only been here for a year, but he has left his mark on me and he will be greatly missed.” — Coulter Pfeiffer
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