About Coach Mike Fournier​

 

Former Professional Defenseman

Certified Personal Trainer

Certified Nutrition Coach

Masters Degree

USA Hockey Certified Coach

Published Hockey Development Author.

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The founder of Built Different Hockey (BDH), a defensemen-specific development program built on structure, discipline, details and effective long-term player growth.

 

A former professional hockey defenseman, Coach Mike played at the junior, major junior, and professional levels, gaining firsthand experience in what it takes to progress in the game technically, mentally, and physically.

 

Coach Mike is a 20-year military veteran, bringing a leadership style rooted in accountability, preparation, details and consistency. His approach emphasizes habits, standards, and attention to detail principles that translate directly from service to sport and player development.

 

Coach Mike is a Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Personal Nutrition Coach, allowing him to integrate age-appropriate strength, movement, recovery, and nutrition principles into his development model. This holistic approach helps young athletes build confidence and durability alongside on-ice skill.

 

Coach Mike is also the author of Built Different Hockey: A Defenseman’s Guide to Elite Play, a development guide designed to help players understand the “why” behind the game and build confidence through preparation and repetition.

 

At BDH, Coach Mike’s mission is simple: Develop defensemen with strong foundations, calm confidence, and a relentless pursuit of excellence on and off the ice.