A New Era of Inclusion
The New Jersey Devils revealed this week that Kelly Nash, head coach of Long Island University’s women’s hockey program, and Dennis Ruppe, manager of Hockey Operations for Hockey in New Jersey, will take part in the 2026 Development Camp. Their participation is part of the NHL Coaches’ Association’s Female Coaches Development Program and BIPOC Coaches Program, initiatives designed to nurture underrepresented talent.
Both programs emphasize skills development, leadership strategies, communication tactics, networking and career advancement. By embedding these elements, the NHL aims to create a pipeline that reflects the diversity of the sport’s growing fan base.
Background and Impact
Nash brings a distinguished coaching résumé, having guided her team to conference regular‑season titles and an NCAA Tournament berth, and she was named the 2024 NEWHA Coach of the Year. She also contributed to the Isobel Cup championship team in 2018 and previously worked with LeagueApps on NHL partnership matters.
Ruppe’s journey in hockey began at age fifteen, progressing through youth programs such as the New Jersey Rockets and Philadelphia Jr. Flyers. He later earned a degree in exercise science from Ohio State University, where he led his college squad to league titles and a National Championship berth, and served as an assistant coach on the women’s ACHA II team.
Their involvement signals a broader commitment by the Devils and the NHL to support coaches who can break barriers and inspire the next generation. The camp will provide both Nash and Ruppe with mentorship, exposure to league executives and hands‑on experience that they can bring back to their respective communities.