Nashville, TN – As the program prepares for the 2026-27 season, the Nashville Jr. Predators proudly announce our Girls Tier II (AA) leadership, coaching staff, and tryout dates.

Following an impressive second-place finish in the 2025–26 NGHL season, the 19U girls’ program is poised to secure a second consecutive Southeastern District Championship, building on its established success. This success highlights the program’s strength, as the 16U and 14U teams are also focused on competing for a district title, aiming to continue the program’s tradition of excellence. Collectively, these three programs have established a distinguished legacy, boasting a combined nine district championships and three national championships, demonstrating the depth and strength of the girls’ hockey program.

Looking ahead to the 2026–27 season, we are excited to continue building on the program’s success, with a continued focus on developing at all levels. This season, we are excited to offer three National-bound teams at 14U, 16U, and 19U. For the second year in a row, we will also be offering a split-season 12U team. 

This year, the 12U team will continue as a supplemental team; however, the coaching staff will adopt a more hands-on approach, using a structured development curriculum communicated in advance to players and families. Consequently, despite being a part-time commitment, there will be a dedicated focus on building the non-national-bound girls’ program. This program will not only provide players with a head coach focused on development, but will also include opportunities for specialized skills coaching throughout the season. 

For the upcoming season, our dedicated coaching staff brings vast experience in youth hockey. We utilize a balanced approach, combining seasoned veteran coaches with promising emerging leaders, to continuously focus on athlete development on and off the ice, fostering a strong and enduring passion for the sport.

Tryouts for the 2026–27 season will be held at the Ford Ice Center(s). 14U, 16U, and 19U will take place April 11–12. Players will be evaluated within their respective birth years and placed on teams accordingly. Please see the registration details below and use the provided links to complete your registration.

2026-27 Tryout Registration Link: Tier II Girls

 

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12U AA: Nick Biciocchi – Head Coach

Coach Nick grew up in Illinois, where he played competitive hockey throughout the Midwest. He spent a year at Chelsea High School in Michigan before finishing his high school career in Pennsylvania with the Bethlehem Blast. He continued his playing career in juniors with the New Jersey Renegades and the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Knights. His passion for hockey continued as his two daughters began playing, which led him to get involved in coaching. Coach Nick enjoys helping players develop their skills, confidence, and love for the game. 

Coach Nick will also be assisting the 14U girls’ team. He is excited to collaborate with Coach Olivia and Coach Lupo to build a curriculum that will guide players as they move through the 14U and 16U levels. Together, they are focused on creating a clear and consistent development path that supports skill growth, hockey IQ, and confidence at every stage. By working closely as a staff, they hope to provide athletes with a strong foundation that not only prepares them for the next level but also helps them feel supported and confident throughout the process.

 

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14U AA: Olivia Hirschy – Head Coach

This is Olivia’s first year stepping behind the bench as a coach. While new to coaching, she brings many years of competitive hockey playing experience to the role. The game has shaped her leadership, discipline, and team-first mindset. She is passionate about creating a positive environment where athletes can grow their skills, build confidence, and develop a strong love for the game both on and off the ice.

A former multi-sport collegiate athlete, Olivia competed for four years in NCAA Division III hockey at Utica University, where she proudly served as team captain in her final season. During her collegiate career, she demonstrated strong leadership both on and off the ice and participated in golf. Olivia earned her Bachelor’s degree in Health Studies and went on to complete her Doctorate of Physical Therapy, combining her athletic background with a deep understanding of health, performance, and injury prevention.

Olivia is incredibly excited for the upcoming season and the opportunity to step into her first year behind the bench. She looks forward to building strong relationships with her players and creating an environment that encourages growth, confidence, and resilience. Her goal is to help each athlete develop not only their skills on the ice, but also the character, teamwork, and leadership qualities that will serve them well beyond the game.

 

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16U AA: Amanda Lupo – Head Coach

As she enters her second season as Girls’ Director for the Nashville Jr. Predators, Coach Lupo remains focused on expanding opportunities for young female athletes and continuing the growth of girls’ hockey throughout the Nashville community. Her leadership reflects a genuine commitment to developing female athletes at every level.

Prior to arriving in Nashville, Coach Lupo served as an Assistant Coach at Utica University and as the goaltending coach at Hamilton College, where she played an integral role in mentoring student-athletes and strengthening program culture. Her coaching philosophy is rooted in promoting growth on and off the ice, fostering a love for the game, and aiding in athletes’ paths to reaching their full potential. 

A former multi-sport collegiate athlete, Coach Lupo competed in four years of NCAA Division III hockey at Utica University, while also participating in golf and lacrosse. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Health and Education, followed by dual master’s degrees in Health and Physical Education. Amanda’s diverse athletic background, academic achievements, and coaching experience continue to shape her approach to developing the next generation of players in Nashville.

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19U AA: Clay Wood – Player Development Coach, 19U Associate Head Coach

Coach Clay is an accomplished player development coach entering his sixth season and his third with the 19U team. Throughout his coaching career, Clay has worked across multiple age groups, including 10U, 12U, 14U, and 19U, giving him a comprehensive understanding of long-term athlete development.

Coach Clay has extensive experience developing female athletes from the youth level through professional hockey, including the PWHL. His background emphasizes skill development, a competitive mindset, and the preparation of players for success at the next level. In addition to team coaching, Clay has worked with USA Hockey, serving with both the Southeast District and New England District Girls Development Camps.

Coach Clay has worked alongside Coach Allie LaCombe and Kahlie Singletary, further strengthening his collaborative, athlete-centered approach. He is passionate about teaching athletes and brings high energy, enthusiasm, and purpose to every practice, setting a standard for effort and focus each day. His positive intensity creates an environment where athletes are motivated to compete, learn, and improve, both on and off the ice.

 

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19U AA: Kahlie Singletary – Head Coach

Coach Kahlie is entering her 21st season as a U19 coach and her 8th with the Nashville Jr. Predators, a program she has been with since its inception in 2019. She previously served as the Girls Director for 12 seasons.

Her philosophy, “Culture Supersedes Strategy,” not only guides her coaching but also instills it in her players. Under her leadership, the Jr. Predators have captured five Southeastern District Championships, a National Championship in 2023, and a Runner-Up finish in 2021.

Kahlie is deeply passionate about providing girls with elite-level hockey opportunities while developing them as leaders both on and off the ice. She has successfully placed 53 players in NCAA Division I, Division III, and ACHA programs.

In addition to her coaching role, Kahlie serves as the Girls/Women’s Committee Chair for the Southern Amateur Hockey Association, working to expand opportunities for girls in hockey across the region. A USA Hockey Level 4 Coach and Certified Functional Strength Coach, she holds Bachelor of Science degrees in Agricultural Economics and Agricultural Business.

Originally from Farmington, MN, Kahlie now resides in Lebanon, TN, with her husband, Josh.

 

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We are incredibly proud of the coaching staff we’ve assembled for the upcoming season. Our mission remains clear: to Develop, Impact, and Guide the next generation of Nashville Jr. Predators! If you have questions regarding our Tier II Girls program or the upcoming tryout process, please visit our website or reach out to Amanda Lupo at alupo@jrpredators.com. 

Let’s DIG—Go Preds!