Dennis maxwell
Co-Founder / PartnerMaxwell was drafted by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 8th round and spent fourteen years playing professional hockey across North America and Europe. Following his playing career, he transitioned into scouting and spent ten seasons as an NHL Scout with the New York Islanders before bringing his expertise into player advising. With more than 25 years of experience in elite hockey environments, Maxwell is widely respected for his evaluation ability, strategic insight, and deep understanding of player development pathways. He has built longstanding relationships across the NHL, NCAA, CHL, USHL, and NAHL, working closely with general managers, scouts and coaches.
Under Maxwell’s guidance, Frontier Sports Group athletes are professionally advised, thoroughly prepared, and strategically positioned for long-term success.
brendan connolly
Co-Founder / PartnerA former NCAA Dl player with Ferris State where he played four years and graduated with a degree in Finance. He played his junior hockey with the Canmore Eagles and the Brooks Bandits where he amassed 180 GP, 54 G, 91 A, 145 PTS and 562 PIMS before accepting a scholarship at Ferris State. He then went on to play fifteen years of pro hockey in the US and Europe (AHL, ECHL, DEL2, ICEHL, EIHL).
Connolly retired in 2023 from the EIHL where he was the alternative captain, was a two-time league champion and holds cult-like status with the Sheffield Steelers. Connolly also represented Great Britain at the World Championship. Connolly brings a wealth of knowledge, experience and strong world-wide connections to lean on for the Frontier Sports Group.
Matthew mcguffin
Director of Player Personnel Ontario / AdvisorMatt brings extensive experience across every level of hockey to his role as a Player Advisor with Frontier Sports Group. A Toronto native, he developed in the GTHL with the Toronto Nats, Toronto Marlies, and Don Mills Flyers.
Drafted 38th overall in the 1990 OHL Draft by the Cornwall Royals, Matt played three seasons in the OHL with Cornwall and the Niagara Falls Thunder. He completed his junior career with Stratford (GOHL), Aurora (OJHL), and Summerside, PEI (MHL). Matt went on to play college hockey at Seneca College (OCAA) / York University (OUAA), followed by two seasons of professional hockey in Whitley Bay, England (BNL) / Muskegon, Michigan (CoHL). Following his playing career, Matt transitioned into player development, coaching the Don Mills Flyers U18 AAA program and founding Absolute Hockey in York Region. He spent six years scouting for the Kitchener Rangers (OHL) and the Toronto Jr. Canadiens and Milton Menace (OJHL), and has worked for 15 years in family advisory.
Mark cardiff
Advisor
Mark brings immense experience across all levels of hockey to his role as a Player Advisor with the Frontier Sports Group. A Barrie native, he developed his hockey youth in the OMHA with the Barrie Colts AAA program.
He was drafted with the 85th pick of the 1990 OHL Draft by the Niagara Falls Thunder and completed his three years in the OHL with the Kitchener Rangers.
Mark then went on to play 4 years at the University of Waterloo (CIS USports).
Upon graduation from U of W, Mark continued his hockey career with 5 years of professional hockey in Germany.
Following his playing career, Mark transitioned into player development, coaching multiple age groups in the BMHA and Barrie Colts AAA youth organizations.
JAKE SMITH
Advisor
Drafted to the OHL, Jake Smith played his junior career across both the OHL and QMJHL before continuing to Carleton University where he earned U SPORTS Rookie of the Year honors. He went on to play seven years professionally throughout North America and Europe, gaining valuable experience and perspective that now shape his work as an Advisor and elite development consultant.
A dynamic offensive player during his career, Jake was known for his shot, scoring ability, and high hockey IQ—traits that allowed him to succeed in high-level environments.
In addition to his playing background, Jake has worked closely with OHL players, high-end draft picks, NCAA commits, junior players, and elite young prospects. His approach combines technical development, strategic guidance, and a modern understanding of the game, allowing him to support players in a way that is both personalized and professional.
BRANDON MCNALLY
Advisor
Brandon McNally is a former professional hockey player with over a decade of experience at the highest levels of the game. Drafted in both the USHL and QMJHL, Brandon played four years of prep hockey at Belmont Hill before continuing his career at Dartmouth College, where he played four years of Ivy League hockey.
Following Dartmouth, Brandon went on to play 11 years of professional hockey, competing in the AHL, ECHL, and across Europe, including representing the Italian National Team. His extensive experience as a player, coach, and mentor gives him a unique perspective on the hockey pathway.
JIM VICKERS
Advisor
Jim Vickers brings a wealth of playing and leadership experience to the FSG team, with a hockey career spanning junior, NCAA Division I, professional, and international competition.
Jim began his playing career in both the Metro Jr. Hockey League and the OPJHL. He went on to play NCAA Division I hockey at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) on a full athletic scholarship.
Following college, Jim continued his professional career in the ECHL. Over the course of his ECHL career, he appeared in more than 130 games.
Jim later took his career overseas, competing in the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) in the United Kingdom.
Hockey has always been a family tradition for Jim. His father, Steve Vickers, played 10 seasons with the New York Rangers and was awarded the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL's Rookie of the Year in 1973.
Jim is married to his wife, Kristina, and they have two children, Stephen and Gabriella.
Jim's combination of high-level playing experience, leadership, education, and passion for the game brings a unique perspective to the FSG team.
Marko Stojkov
Advisor
Marko Stojkov, originally from Toronto, Ontario, brings a player’s perspective to his work with FSG.
A Canadian and Serbian hockey player, he spent five years in junior hockey with Frölunda HC in Sweden, the Flint Firebirds in the OHL, the Vernon Vipers in the BCHL, and the Sherwood Park Crusaders in the BCHL.
Living and competing across multiple countries taught him how much a player’s development depends on the people guiding them through decisions on and off the ice.
Marko now plays varsity hockey for the Lakehead University Thunderwolves in Thunder Bay, Ontario while pursuing an Honours Bachelor of Commerce in Finance, earning Dean’s List honours in his first year.
He has also spent four summers coaching young players individually, an experience that strengthened his commitment to helping athletes reach their goals.
Marko is driven to become a trusted advisor who listens closely, understands each player’s ambitions, and helps them navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead.
NICK BYDAL
Advisor
A native of East Grand Forks, Minnesota, Bydal brings a unique perspective to hockey development, having experienced the game as a player, coach, administrator, and advisor.
Bydal’s coaching and hockey operations career includes extensive experience at the junior and NCAA levels. He returned to the Minnesota Magicians of the NAHL in 2021 as GM and Head Coach after four seasons at the University of St. Thomas, where he served as Asst. Head Coach and Recruiting Coordinator. At St. Thomas, he played an integral role in building the university’s first NCAA Division I hockey program.
He later became the first Head Coach and General Manager of the College Station Spirit of the NA3HL, now the Texas RoadRunners, while also serving the Magicians organization as Assistant General Manager.
For more than four years, Bydal has also served as a hockey player and family advisor, working directly with athletes and their families as they navigate the increasingly complex hockey landscape.
BEN Novosyolok
European Advisor / Scout
Ben Novosyolok serves as a European Advisor and Scout with Frontier Sports Group, focusing on player evaluation, recruitment, and career development across Europe. Based in Scotland and studying Business Management at the University of St Andrews, Ben has developed a strong network of players, coaches, scouts, and hockey organizations across Europe.
His work centers on identifying talent and opportunities across European and North American hockey, helping players and families understand their options and make informed decisions about their development and careers. Ben has experience evaluating players across a range of European leagues and levels, with a particular focus on identifying emerging talent and finding the right opportunities for players to progress.
Ben brings a relationship-driven and honest approach to his work, with an emphasis on building long-term relationships with players, families, coaches, and organizations. Fluent in English and Russian, he brings an international perspective to FSG’s work with players throughout Europe.
Matti Kautto
European Advisor
Matti Kautto brings more than two decades of NHL scouting experience to Frontier Sports Group, backed by a strong foundation as both a professional player and coach.
A native of Jyväskylä, Finland, Kautto competed in Finland’s top professional leagues with SaiPa and JyP before continuing his career in Sweden, where he also took on player-coach responsibilities. His playing and coaching background provides him with a comprehensive understanding of player development, team dynamics, and the demands of competing at the highest levels of hockey.
Following his playing career, Kautto transitioned into scouting and built an impressive 20-season tenure in the NHL as a European scout. He has held scouting roles with the Chicago Blackhawks (2002–05), Dallas Stars (2005–08), Philadelphia Flyers (2008–14), and New York Islanders (2014–2023).
Kautto’s extensive network across Europe, deep evaluation expertise, and long-standing NHL experience make him a valuable asset in identifying and assessing elite international talent.
Kia Taherian
Scout
Kia is a hockey scout with experience across junior and development environments, including roles with the Pelham Panthers in the GOJHL, PDA Evaluations, and Prodigy Prospects Hockey. His background in scouting and hockey operations provides a clear understanding of player pathways and the demands of progressing through higher levels of the game.
His work focuses on identifying talent through detailed assessment of on‑ice habits, competitiveness, and the qualities that support long‑term growth. Across multiple development settings, Kia has built a strong foundation in recognizing players whose skills and approach translate as they advance.
Currently pursuing a degree in Sport Management at Brock University, Kia combines academic training with practical experience to bring a thoughtful, development‑driven perspective to Frontier Sports Group’s scouting team. Based in Mississauga and active throughout the Niagara region, he contributes a focused and growth‑minded outlook to player evaluation.
JAKE MOORING
Scout
Jake is a hockey scout with extensive firsthand playing experience in the GOJHL, NOJHL, and NCAA Division III. Originally from Barrie, Ontario, he developed a strong foundation in the game by competing across multiple junior and collegiate levels, giving him a practical understanding of the demands and nuances of high-level hockey.
He holds an undergraduate degree in Sports Management and is based in Dallas, Texas. Jake’s role focuses on comprehensive player evaluation, emphasizing hockey sense, compete level, and translatable on-ice habits. His background as a player allows him to accurately assess long-term development potential and identify the traits that project to success at higher levels of competition.
BRENT PRESTON
Academic Advisor
Brent has over 30 years of experience as a high school educator and currently serves as an Educational Advisor for a team in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). In addition, he sits on several OHL education committees. For the past 15 years, he has advised students on NCAA academic pathways and eligibility requirements. Brent graduated from Laurentian University in 1994 with an Honours Bachelor of Physical and Health Education (BPHE) and completed his teaching certification at Southeastern University in Florida.
Throughout his career, he has guided numerous student-athletes—from both Canada and the United States, including his own children—through the transition from high school to NCAA and U Sports programs. He works closely with student-athletes and their families to ensure full compliance with all NCAA and U Sports academic eligibility requirements.
CONCIERGE TEAM
Admin Support
Behind every great advising experience is a great support team. Our Admin and Marketing staff works closely with our advisors to make sure players and parents feel informed, supported, and taken care of - every step of the way.
FSG Team
Who We Are
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At Frontier Sports Group, we put players first - always. Every decision we make is guided by what’s best for the athlete’s long-term growth, not short-term wins or personal gain. We partner with players and families to navigate the complex world of hockey with honesty, transparency, and integrity.
Development is at the core of what we do. We provide personalized guidance that helps players reach their full potential - on the ice, in the classroom, and in life. From refining skills to making smart career moves, we focus on the steps that matter most for lasting success.
We also believe in building strong relationships. Hockey is more than stats and standings - it’s about trust, mentorship, and connection. Our team works closely with players, families, and coaches to ensure every path we guide a player down is thoughtful, informed, and empowering.
At Frontier Sports Group, we’re not just advising hockey players - we’re shaping futures.
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Integrity, creativity, and empathy shape the way we work. These aren't just words - they’re the foundation of everything we build.
PLAYERS FIRST. ALWAYS.
EVERY DECISION WE MAKE MUST STAND UP TO ONE SIMPLE QUESTION: IS THIS TRULY IN THE BEST LONG-TERM INTEREST OF THE PLAYER?
NOT OUR EGO. NOT A QUICK WIN. NOT OUTSIDE PRESSURE. IF WE CAN’T EXPLAIN A DECISION CLEARLY AND HONESTLY TO THE PLAYER AND THEIR FAMILY, WE WON’T MAKE IT.
DEVELOPMENT BEFORE DESTINATIONS
WE BELIEVE OPPORTUNITIES COME FROM PREPARATION, NOT SHORTCUTS.
OUR MEASURE OF SUCCESS ISN’T JUST TEAMS, LEAGUES, OR CONTRACTS - IT’S WHO OUR PLAYERS BECOME ON THE ICE AND AS PEOPLE. STRONG DEVELOPMENT CREATES LASTING CAREERS.
TRUST IS BUILT, NOT CLAIMED
TRUST ISN’T A PROMISE - IT’S EARNED DAILY.
WE BUILD IT THROUGH HONESTY, CONSISTENCY, AND DOING WHAT WE SAY WE’LL DO, ESPECIALLY WHEN THE CONVERSATION IS HARD OR THE DECISION ISN’T POPULAR.
WE TELL THE TRUTH - BECAUSE WE CARE
PLAYERS GROW FASTEST WHEN THEY HEAR THE TRUTH.
WE GIVE CLEAR, DIRECT FEEDBACK WITH EMPATHY AND RESPECT. WE WON’T SUGARCOAT REALITY, AND WE WILL NEVER DEMEAN. OUR GOAL IS GROWTH, NOT COMFORT.
RELATIONSHIPS OVER TRANSACTIONS
WE VALUE LONG-TERM RELATIONSHIPS WITH PLAYERS, FAMILIES, COACHES, AND ORGANIZATIONS - BEFORE, DURING, AND LONG AFTER DECISIONS ARE MADE. HOW WE TREAT PEOPLE MATTERS MORE THAN OUTCOMES.
PATIENCE IS A COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE
THE RIGHT PATH ISN’T ALWAYS THE FASTEST ONE.
WE RESIST PRESSURE TO RUSH DEVELOPMENT OR FORCE TIMELINES, BELIEVING THAT THOUGHTFUL PLANNING AND PATIENCE LEAD TO STRONGER PLAYERS AND BETTER CAREERS.
EDUCATORS FIRST. ADVOCATES ALWAYS.
OUR JOB IS TO HELP PLAYERS AND FAMILIES TRULY UNDERSTAND THEIR OPTIONS SO THEY CAN MAKE CONFIDENT, INFORMED DECISIONS. AND WHEN IT MATTERS MOST, WE ADVOCATE FIERCELY ON THEIR BEHALF.
CHARACTER COUNTS WHEN NO ONE IS WATCHING
TALENT OPENS DOORS - CHARACTER KEEPS THEM OPEN.
WE VALUE HUMILITY, WORK ETHIC, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND RESPECT AS MUCH AS PERFORMANCE. HOW OUR PLAYERS CARRY THEMSELVES REFLECTS WHO THEY ARE - AND WHO WE ARE.
COMPETE HARD. RESPECT THE GAME.
WE BELIEVE IN COMPETING WITH INTENSITY WHILE MAINTAINING PROFESSIONALISM.
HOCKEY IS A SMALL WORLD. REPUTATIONS LAST. WE WORK HARD, SPEAK HONESTLY, AND NEVER BURN BRIDGES.
WE HOLD OURSELVES TO THE STANDARD WE EXPECT
WE MODEL THE BEHAVIORS WE EXPECT FROM OUR PLAYERS: PREPARATION, DISCIPLINE, COMMUNICATION, AND ACCOUNTABILITY. LEADERSHIP STARTS WITH HOW WE SHOW UP EVERY DAY.
GROWTH IS NON-NEGOTIABLE
THE GAME EVOLVES, AND SO DO WE. WE COMMIT TO CONTINUOUS LEARNING SO WE CAN BETTER SERVE MODERN PLAYERS AND FAMILIES, TODAY AND IN THE FUTURE.
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Frontier Sports Group was established by its co-founders after identifying a clear void in the sports management world for a development-focused, innovative, and tenacious professional firm centered on long-term player success.
With more than three decades of combined experience across professional playing, scouting, and player advising, Frontier Sports Group was built on the belief that elite representation begins with elite development, honest counsel, and a deep understanding of both the business and player sides of the game.
Leadership & Experience
Frontier Sports Group’s leadership team brings extensive experience across NCAA Division I hockey, professional leagues in North America and Europe, and elite-level scouting at the NHL level.
The firm’s advisors offer firsthand knowledge of the collegiate recruiting process, NCAA eligibility standards, Major Junior pathways, professional development systems, and international hockey markets. This diverse background allows Frontier Sports Group to advise athletes with real-world insight, strategic foresight, and a comprehensive understanding of how decisions made today impact long-term opportunity.
Through decades of involvement across all levels of the sport, Frontier Sports Group has built trusted relationships throughout the NHL, NCAA, CHL, USHL, NAHL, and international leagues. Our advisory team works closely with general managers, scouts, coaches, and front-office personnel to ensure athletes are evaluated accurately, promoted effectively, and positioned strategically throughout their careers.
Our Philosophy
Frontier Sports Group operates with a clear mission: to educate, prepare, promote, and protect athletes throughout every stage of their hockey careers.
Our approach emphasizes partnership, long-term goal alignment, and development-driven decision-making. By integrating a deep understanding of both the business and performance sides of the sport, Frontier Sports Group delivers an innovative and comprehensive advising model focused on sustainable success, professional integrity, and athlete-first representation.