New Leadership at the National Team Development Program
USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program (NTDP) recently unveiled a pair of promotions that will reshape its leadership structure. Rod Braceful, who had served as director of player personnel since 2023, now steps into the role of senior director of hockey operations, while Andrew Whiteside ascends to director of player personnel.
Braceful’s career in hockey spans both scouting and management. He previously held positions with the Chicago Blackhawks and served as general manager of the 2026 U.S. Under‑18 Men’s National Team as well as the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup‑winning Select Team. In his new capacity, he will oversee player personnel, scouting and the strategic direction of the NTDP’s development pathways.
Whiteside brings more than a decade of player evaluation experience to his new post. His background includes stints as an amateur scout for the Montreal Canadiens and leadership roles with NAHL and USHL clubs. He will now lead nationwide player identification and evaluation efforts, ensuring that the NTDP’s talent pipeline remains competitive on the international stage.
The NTDP operates a rigorous 62‑game schedule that pits its U.S. National Under‑17 and 18 teams against NAHL squads, NCAA programs and foreign opponents. The upcoming 2026–27 season will feature ticket packages such as the Kroger College Series six‑pack and the Big Game Pack, available through the USA Hockey Arena box office.
Both executives will work closely with coaches, regional managers and the broader scouting staff to maintain a cohesive player development approach. Their combined expertise is expected to reinforce the program’s mission of preparing young athletes for future national team responsibilities.