Elite Skating. Elevated Skill. Real Development.

51Elite was founded on a simple, powerful idea: better edges, better execution, better players. Created by former NCAA & Professional’s Kevin Kapstad & Jerry Pollastrone 51ELITE exists to challenge and develop high-performing athletes who are serious about reaching the next level of their game- on and off the ice.

Based in New England, 51ELITE offers a focused, video analysis program for elite youth, high school, junior, and collegiate players. Players are educated here to shape their mindset and methodology. Our coaches have a combined 25 years of professional experience & 8 Years of Division 1 NCAA at the University of New Hampshire.

Our programs is designed for those who want real development, not just drills. Every session is purposeful. Our analysis is designed to focus on the positive decisions made on the ice, coupled with not just the why, but how to implement new skills to improve a players game

We believe in teaching hockey the right way, building players who think the game at speed, carry themselves with discipline, and compete with confidence no matter where they go next. Just as importantly, we aim to develop individuals who take what they’ve learned on the ice - focus, resilience, accountability - and apply it to life beyond the rink.

  • Coach

    Kevin began his hockey journey with the Minuteman Flames program in Marlborough, Massachusetts. He then attended Eaglebrook School to prepare for a three-year prep school career at The Governor’s Academy in Byfield, MA. During his sophomore season at Governor’s, he was recruited by the University of New Hampshire (UNH), where he went on to compete in four NCAA Championship tournaments and win two Hockey East Regular Season titles. He was also named to the Manchester, NH Regional All-Star Team and received the Rod Langway Award as the UNH’s top defenseman.

    Following his collegiate career, Kevin moved to Europe, where he led Landshut to a Bundesliga Championship and finished as the league’s top-scoring defenseman. His success in Germany earned him a contract with Leksands IF of the Swedish Elite League (SHL). There, he guided the team to an Allsvenskan Championship, led all defensemen in scoring, and was named Gala Player of the Year during the NHL lockout season, which featured numerous NHL players.

    Kevin went on to play four seasons in Austria, helping Klagenfurt AC reach the EBEL Championship Series.

    Overall he competed for 14 years between the NCAA and Professional teams throughout the top leagues in Europe.

  • Coach

    Jerry Pollastrone brings nearly 20 years of top-tier playing experience to 51Elite, with a career that spans NCAA Division I and premier professional leagues across North America and Europe.

    In his youth, Jerry played alongside Kevin for the Minuteman Flames, competing in the esteemed Quebec Pee Wee Tournament. Following two years at Eaglebrook School, he spent three seasons at Salisbury School in Salisbury, CT, where he earned All New England honors in his senior year. Additionally, he had the honor of representing Team USA in the U-18 Junior World Cup, now referred to as the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, and was part of the historic first U.S. team to clinch the tournament title.

    After his time at Salisbury, Jerry played four seasons at the University of New Hampshire, contributing to two Hockey East regular season championship teams and participating in four NCAA tournaments. He then embarked on a professional career in the ECHL, CHL, and several elite European leagues, including the ICEHL. Jerry achieved a championship title with the Vienna Capitals, wrapping up the regular season with a remarkable +27 rating, making him the league leader in plus/minus. Celebrated for his speed, hockey IQ, and leadership, Jerry consistently brought a high level of professionalism and offensive talent to every team he played for.

    At 51Elite, Jerry skillfully combines his vast playing experience with an innovative coaching style that focuses on edgework, pace, and smart decision-making. His mentorship nurtures player confidence and enables them to perform at their highest potential.