New Roles for Chiefs Coaches in 2026-27

Rob Broderick, Mercer Chiefs GM and NCDC Head Coach, is excited to announce that Rob Colton and Bump Lisk will be taking on expanded and important roles next season with the Mercer Chiefs. The goal of the Mercer Chiefs is to provide a place for families to play from mites to juniors in a fun, competitive atmosphere where they will receive the tools needed to develop as hockey players. Both Rob and Bump will report to Chris Barcless, Mercer's Hockey Director.

The Mercer Chiefs will be announcing 2026-2027 Tier One Coaches next week.

Mercer Chiefs - Head of Player Development- Bump Lisk
Role Overview
The Head of Player Development is responsible for the holistic growth of every player in the organization. This role maintains a consistent on-ice and bench presence, builds trusted relationships with players and families, supports coaches, and serves as a liaison between coaches and families when needed.

The position serves as an independent, trusted resource for players outside of their direct coaching staff, providing guidance, advocacy, and support while promoting healthy communication, accountability, and long-term development.

Bump holds a master’s degree in behavioral sciences from the University of Pennsylvania and plans to shape the role with a strong emphasis on mental health and the psychology of being an athlete. This background will be especially valuable in carrying out the following responsibilities:

• Know every player’s skill level, strengths, challenges, and development path.
• Collaborate with the Director of Midget Hockey to meet with coaches weekly to ensure efficient operations of each team.
• Coach players on self-advocacy, handling feedback, and creating lines for productive communication.

Mercer Chiefs - Director of Midget Hockey - Rob Colton
Role Overview
The Midget Hockey Director is responsible for the overall leadership, development, and administration of the organization’s bantam major - Midget-level hockey program (typically ages U14–U18). This role ensures a positive, competitive, and development-focused environment that aligns with the organization’s mission and values.

Key Responsibilities:
Program Leadership Development
• Provide strategic oversight for all Midget-level teams and programming.
• Establish and implement player development philosophies consistent with the organization’s long-term athlete development model.
• Ensure a positive culture emphasizing sportsmanship, accountability, teamwork, and player well-being. Rob will also work heavily with Bump to ensure an overall holistic development approach is being taken for all Chief players.