About Us
Heads Up Sports Academy (HUSA) was founded by Leo Paone and has been developing hockey players since December 1994. Incorporated in June 2000, the Academy has grown under his long‑standing leadership and experience in both education and coach development. Over the years, the program has operated as PHL Academy, Ancaster Hockey Academy, and Heads Up Sports Academy. Today, HUSA is proudly sponsored by MAK’S Source for Sports.
Leo’s background as a retired Catholic educator with the Hamilton‑Wentworth Catholic District School Board, combined with his ongoing work as a Hockey Canada and Ontario Minor Hockey Association course facilitator and coach certifier, has shaped the educational foundation of the Academy. This influence is reflected in HUSA’s mission: to provide high‑quality hockey instruction that supports long‑term player development. As we celebrate our 33rd year, the Academy continues to evolve through new programs and a refined, development‑focused approach built on consistency, structure, and accountability.
At all HUSA programs, participants are expected to give their best effort and embrace challenge. Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that players reach their greatest potential by stepping outside their comfort zones and identifying areas of struggle. Once these points are recognized, moments of failure become opportunities for growth—leading to steady improvement across a training season.
This approach is reinforced by a professional instructional staff and applied across all levels of development. The result is increased confidence, stronger self‑belief, and a genuine drive to set and achieve personal goals—both on and off the ice.
Organizations We Have Worked With
HUSA has delivered hockey development programs for a wide range of organizations, including:
- Ancaster Avalanche (Bantam B, Midget A)
- Ancaster Girls’ Fundamental Program
- Ancaster Minor Hockey League
- Dofasco Minor Hockey Association
- Hamilton Hawks Girls Hockey Association
- Hamilton Jr. Bulldogs – Future Development Program
- Hamilton Steel AAA (Ryan Risidore – Head of Player Development)
- McMaster University Women’s Hockey Program
- Smithville Minor Hockey Association
- Stoney Creek Girls’ Fundamental Program
- Stoney Creek Junior Sabres
- Stoney Creek Minor Hockey Association
- Stoney Creek Sabres (Midget AA & BB)