David Venditti has been the head women's ice hockey coach at the University of New England for seven seasons, which is part of his 20 years in the collegiate ranks. The Hyde Park, Mass. native has a degree from the University of Southern Maine, where he played ice hockey for the Huskies.
What memorable moment(s) at UNE do you recall most often?
My most memorable moments stem around the continued growth and sense of accomplishment from the team. This past season was particularly memorable as the team fought their way through to the league championship game for the first time in our program history. Watching them glow with joy and realizing their successes was a magical and memorable moment as a coach. Another would be my first season at UNE, when the team wasn't eligible for playoffs but could still practice during that time. The players continued to come to optional practices. They worked hard smiling and enjoying being a team as well as being on the ice with the staff. This positive action reminded me the importance of the premise that hockey is just the platform we use in teaching these young adults life lessons and the relationships that form being a part of a team.
What is the best professional advice you have received; something that you try to apply to each and every day?
The best professional advice I have received was from a friend of mine many years ago. His said, "the day you think you know everything is the day you need to find a new profession. Always continue to grow and learn by surrounding yourself with people who are genuine and compliment your weaknesses." This advice has served me well and has been a daily reminder to continue pursuing my personal and professional growth, but doing so while staying true to your 'why.' For me, that has always been to continue to facilitate a platform for my players and staff to be better every day.
What factor(s) made you most want to work at UNE?
I was drawn to UNE for a multitude of reasons falling under the scope of both professional and personal opportunities. I was very impressed with the Athletic Department's structure, personnel, and support for the student-athletes and programs. I felt strongly that success both in the classroom and in competition could be driven from a university, such as UNE, that portrayed a strong breadth of academic offerings, state-of-the-art athletics facilities, as well as budgetary support. I also looked forward to an opportunity to apply standards and a culture that would represent a strong and competitive program for the university. The proximity of UNE to my family also presented an opportunity to provide a better work-life balance for me and the family. For these reasons, I felt UNE would be the perfect fit and opportunity to be better every day professionally and personally.
Who has been a mentor(s) related to the profession?
I have been very fortunate to have worked around many amazing coaches throughout my time as a head coach and working with USA Hockey New England District. The four coaches who have had a substantial impact on me include John Lauziere, David Flint, Jim Plummer, and Ed Harding. All are current college coaches who have helped shape my philosophy, style, and understanding of the game. As a person, leader, and mentor, they have shown me the importance of the connection between personal and professional growth. The importance to be true to your moral compass and your standards, while adapting generationally. These four have made my years in coaching enjoyable and meaningful. I am forever grateful to them.
Why did you get into the profession and what has kept you in it?
My original intent when I entered the coaching realm was to stay involved in the game I loved and grew up playing. This sport gave me many fond memories, and taught me so many life lessons. As my time in coaching progressed, I realized the potential impact I could have. This evolution transformed my reasoning and approach into creating a platform for young adults to grow and develop into positive people that try to be better every day. This shift in focus has kept me in this profession.
Catch up on previous spotlights:
Ed Silva, men's basketball
Danielle Collins, field hockey
Curt Smyth, associate director of athletics
Ashley Potvin-Fulford, women's rugby
Kasey Keenan '02, men's golf
Lyndie Kelley '11, strength & conditioning
