About

Elite Skating. Elevated Skill. Real Development.

51Elite is founded on a simple, powerful idea: better edges, better execution, better players. Created by former pro defenseman Kevin Kapstad, 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 Hampshire, 51Elite offers a focused, in-person training environment for elite youth, high school, junior, and collegiate players. Players train here, not just for access to high-end coaching, but for a mindset and methodology shaped by years of competing and succeeding at the NCAA Division I and professional levels.

Our programs are built for those who want real development, not just drills. Every skate is purposeful. Every rep has intent. Kevin’s focus on skating and skills, the foundations of today’s game, is supported by individualized feedback, video breakdowns, and consistent mentorship designed to help athletes understand not just the “how,” but the “why.”

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.

  • Founder

    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 league’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.

Jerry Pollastrone

  • Coach

    Jerry Pollastrone brings nearly two decades of high-level playing experience to 51Elite, with a career that spans NCAA Division I and top professional leagues across North America and Europe.

    A former standout at the University of New Hampshire, Jerry went on to play professionally in the ECHL, CHL, and multiple elite European leagues, including the ICEHL, where he won a championship with the Vienna Capitals. Known for his speed, hockey IQ, and leadership, Jerry consistently brought professionalism and offensive skill to every team he played for.

    At 51Elite, Jerry combines his deep playing experience with a sharp coaching style focused on edgework, pace, and smart decision-making. His mentorship helps players grow their confidence and perform at their highest level.