Board of Directors and Program Coordinators

Executive Board Members

Patty Williams

President

Tony Truhler

Director of Operations

Cliff Gallagher

Vice President

Kristen Jones

Secretary

Brian Gutknecht

Treasurer

Mike Hogan

Hockey Director (Non-Voting)

Program Coordinators

Valerie Gallagher

Media Coordinator

Amber Wilson

Team Building Coordinator

Brandy Herbison

Marketing & Events Coordinator

Mark Arrington

Web Design Coordinator

Open Position

Fundraising Coordinator

Open Position

Community Service Coordinator

FIHA Governance and Volunteer Program

The Frisco Independent Hockey Association (FIHA) is a Texas non-profit corporation and an Internal Revenue Service recognized 501(c)(3) organization. FIHA is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors responsible for the organization's long-term strategy, financial stewardship, operational oversight, and commitment to serving its players and families.

The Board's responsibilities include:

  • Establishing the mission, vision, and strategic direction of FIHA.
  • Approving the annual budget and overseeing the organization's financial health.
  • Appointing, supervising, and evaluating key staff and volunteer leaders, such as the Hockey Director and Club Administrator.
  • Ensuring compliance with USA Hockey, the Texas Scholastic Hockey League (TSHL), SafeSport, and all applicable laws and regulations.
  • Providing oversight for risk management, player safety, disciplinary processes, and organizational governance.

Board members serve as unpaid volunteers and are expected to act in the best interests of FIHA and its membership as a whole, rather than representing any individual team, player, or personal interest.

Board Composition

The Board consists of five voting directors

Officer positions include:

  • President
  • Vice President
  • Treasurer
  • Secretary
  • Director of Operations


Additional at-large directors may be appointed as needed to support the organization's mission and operational requirements.

The Board may also establish non-voting advisory positions or committees to address specific areas of focus, including finance, fundraising, communications, compliance, governance, and player development.

Board Nomination Process

Call for Candidates

Each year, prior to the Annual Membership Meeting, FIHA announces open Board positions through club communications, including email, the FIHA website, and other approved communication channels. Nominations may also be accepted from the membership in accordance with organizational bylaws.

Expression of Interest

Interested individuals submit a statement of interest outlining their background, qualifications, and reasons for seeking Board service by the published deadline.

Candidate Review

The Nominating Committee, or another Board-designated group, reviews applications, conducts interviews as appropriate, and develops a recommended slate of candidates for membership consideration.

Elections and Terms

  • Board elections are conducted during the Annual Membership Meeting, typically held each spring.
  • Each family with a registered player in good standing is entitled to vote in accordance with FIHA bylaws.
  • Directors are elected by a majority vote of eligible members present or participating in the election process.
  • Directors generally serve one-year terms, unless otherwise specified by the bylaws.
  • Vacancies occurring during a term may be filled by Board appointment until the next membership election, subject to governing bylaws.

Officer Selection

Following each annual election, the newly seated Board convenes to:

  • Elect officers, including President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary.
  • Confirm committee chairs and Board liaisons.
  • Establish committee assignments and areas of oversight.

Officer duties and responsibilities are outlined in the organization's bylaws and governance policies.

Board Meetings and Decision-Making

The Board meets regularly throughout the year and may hold additional meetings as necessary to address organizational business.

Governance standards include:

  • A majority of voting directors constitutes a quorum.
  • Decisions are generally approved by majority vote of directors present at a duly called meeting.
  • Meeting agendas typically include:
  • Financial reports and budget oversight
  • Program and season planning
  • Safety and risk management updates
  • Compliance matters
  • Governance and policy discussions
  • Disciplinary matters requiring Board review

The Board may enter executive session when discussing confidential personnel, disciplinary, legal, or other sensitive matters.

Conflict of Interest and Ethical Standards

FIHA Board members are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.

Board members are required to:

  • Disclose actual or potential conflicts of interest.
  • Recuse themselves from discussions or votes where a conflict exists.
  • Maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive organizational information.
  • Act in good faith and in the best interests of FIHA and its membership.

The organization maintains a formal Conflict of Interest Policy and Code of Ethics and may require annual disclosure statements from directors.

Committees and Delegated Authority

To effectively manage organizational responsibilities while maintaining proper oversight, the Board may create committees and appoint volunteer leaders in specialized areas, including:

Finance Committee

  • Budget development
  • Financial oversight
  • Audit coordination and review

Discipline and Conduct Committee

  • Review of serious conduct violations
  • Recommendations for disciplinary action

SafeSport and Risk Management Committee

  • Oversight of player safety initiatives
  • Compliance with SafeSport and USA Hockey requirements

Fundraising and Sponsorship Committee

  • Management of fundraising activities
  • Community partnerships and sponsor relationships

Committees serve in an advisory capacity to the Board. Final authority for policies, major financial decisions, and disciplinary appeals remains with the Board of Directors.

Relationship with Coaches and Team Staff

FIHA maintains a clear distinction between governance and hockey operations.

  • The Board establishes organizational policy, strategic direction, and oversight.
  • The Board does not manage game strategy, player assignments, line combinations, or other coaching decisions.
  • The Hockey Director and coaching staff operate within the governance framework established by the Board and are responsible for adhering to FIHA policies, USA Hockey standards, and Texas Scholastic Hockey League regulations.
  • Players and families are encouraged to follow established communication and grievance procedures when raising concerns or seeking resolutions.


Volunteer Opportunities Available

FIHA's success is built upon the dedication, passion, and commitment of its volunteers. Volunteers are the foundation of our organization and play a critical role in creating exceptional experiences for our players and families.

From managing team operations and coordinating events to supporting fundraising efforts, communications, sponsorships, and game-day activities, volunteers help ensure that every aspect of the organization operates effectively and efficiently.

Their contributions extend far beyond administration. Volunteers help foster a culture of teamwork, sportsmanship, and community that is central to FIHA's mission. Their service allows coaches and players to focus on development, competition, and creating lasting memories through the game of hockey.

Whether you have a few hours to contribute or are interested in a leadership role within the organization, FIHA welcomes individuals who are passionate about supporting youth hockey and strengthening the Frisco hockey community.

If you are interested in serving in one of our volunteer opportunities, please contact a member of the Board of Directors.

Volunteering with FIHA is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, support local student-athletes, and help develop the next generation of hockey players and leaders.

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