With over 30 years of coaching experience, Mike Heikkinen brings a wealth of knowledge, dedication, and leadership to the U18 AAA bench. A seasoned and respected figure in the hockey community, Mike has coached across various levels, including AAA programs in Windsor and SunCounty, as well as in Junior/University hockey. His commitment to excellence has earned him significant milestones, including leading his teams to back-to-back Alliance Championships with Sun County (1997 born).
Mike holds a High Performance 1 certification through Hockey Canada, reflecting his commitment to developing high-level athletes in a structured and progressive environment. While he did not play hockey at a high level, his deep understanding of the game and passion for coaching have made him a highly effective leader and mentor.
Mike’s coaching philosophy centers around preparing players for the next level—whether that be Junior or higher—by building complete athletes. He focuses heavily on both overall skill and position-specific development, while also emphasizing hockey IQ and mental toughness. His coaching style combines structure and attention to detail with a genuine investment in each player’s journey. Players can expect a disciplined but supportive environment where they are encouraged to express their individual strengths within a team framework.
Helping players transition to the next level is a priority in Mike’s program. With a well-rounded U18 schedule, which includes high-level competition, practice intensity, and exposure, he ensures players are seen and supported. His ultimate goal is to equip them with the tools, habits, and confidence required to succeed beyond minor hockey.
Mike is inspired by the love of the game and a strong desire to contribute to the development of young athletes and the broader hockey community. He draws coaching inspiration from NHL professionals like Bob Boughner, DJ Smith and Bob Jones. These great local coaches were incredibly generous in sharing their time and philosophies to make both Mike and his teams better.
Outside of hockey, Mike is a Captain with the Windsor Fire Department. He is a devoted fan of the Detroit Red Wings and spends a lot of his free time fishing and golfing. One of his proudest memories as a coach was representing Windsor/Essex at the International Children's Games--a moment that underscores his dedication to his players and his region.