Coach Michael Shelley grew up playing hockey in the Buffalo (NY) area, stepping back from playing the game to attend Canisius College where he played Division I AA college football.  After graduating from Canisius with a Bachelor’s degree in political science, Coach Shelley moved to Virginia in 2000 to pursue his career with a local law enforcement agency.  In 2013 he earned a Master’s degree in Public Administration from National University. 

Coach Shelley began coaching hockey while living in New York.  In Virginia, he continued his coaching path with the Prince William Panthers and the Potomac Patriots, earning his level 5 USA hockey coaches' certification.  Coach Shelley has served as the House Director and is currently the club’s Travel Director. The 2025/2026 season will mark Coach Shelley’s 10th season on the Patriot’s junior bench.  

Coach Shelley is the owner/operator of Patriot Goaltending LLC.  Coach Shelley believes in a holistic approach to coaching. “What you do on ice and off ice is important. Mental preparation is just as important to your success as on ice skill development.”