Gregg Naumenko

Club President

Gregg Naumenko was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago where he fell in love with the game of hockey. Gregg played locally until the age of 14 when he relocated to Rochester, MN to play High School hockey and train with the USHL’s Rochester Mustangs. Upon completion of a decorated four-year Junior career, Gregg earned the opportunity to play NCAA DI Hockey at the University of Alaska-Anchorage. That experience prepared Gregg to become one of only 7 Illinois-born goalies to ever play in the NHL (Mighty Ducks of Anaheim), Gregg enjoyed a professional career that allowed him to prosper under many of the top hockey minds in the world. Following a career-ending hip injury, Gregg returned to his Chicago roots to begin coaching and giving back to the game. A fixture on AHAI and Central District Player Development Committees, Gregg has also been honored with the opportunity to coach at USA Hockey’s National Select Festivals. In addition to winning multiple Illinois AAA State Championships at the Youth AAA level, Gregg also has leadership experience in Junior Hockey, having served as Associate Coach and Assistant G.M. of the USHL’s Omaha Lancers. Son of legendary Chicago youth hockey coach Wally Naumenko, Gregg’s accomplishments as a Player, Coach, and Executive Business Administrator have forged him into one of the most well-respected hockey figures in the Midwest.

Jennifer Smith

Director of Administration

Jennifer Smith serves as Director of Administration for Chicago Phantoms AAA. In this role, Jennifer interacts with AHAI and USA Hockey to organize and manage Rosters and Registration, coordinates volunteer Team Managers, acts as a liaison between Billet Players and Families, and navigates many other vital club initiatives. Jennifer is a battle-tested Hockey Mom who has vast experience managing high-level teams and brings a personal love of all aspects of the game to Chicago Phantoms AAA.

Pete Vandeveld

Strength Coach

Nicklas Ankarstad

9U/ 2016 Co-Head Coach

Nick Ankarstad brings a lifelong passion for hockey to the Phantoms organization. Originally from Sweden, Nick grew up on the ice, developing a strong foundation in the game’s fundamentals and a deep love for the sport. He played junior hockey in Sweden’s U20 Elite Division for FoC Farsta, competing at a high level and learning the importance of discipline, teamwork, and skill. His Swedish roots give him a unique perspective on the game, with an emphasis on creativity, puck control, and smart decision-making. After his junior career, Nick continued his hockey journey in the U.S., playing college hockey at aLindenwood University in St. Louis, where he sharpened his competitive edge and leadership abilities. Last season, he served as an assistant coach with the Jr. Phantoms, bringing energy, structure, and a team-first mentality to the bench. Nick’s coaching philosophy centers on skill development, encouraging players to become confident with the puck, focus on fundamentals, and grow through consistent effort and repetition. He believes that a strong foundation in individual skills leads to better team play and long-term success. Nick is excited about the growing momentum of the Phantoms organization and looks forward to helping young players grow both on and off the ice.

Kyle Orlando

9U/ 2016 Co-Head Coach

Kyle is a Chicago-area hockey coach whose experience spans youth programs in the U.S., Canada, and Norway, along with college hockey at Western Illinois University. He grew up with the Oak Park Eagles and Chicago Blues, competing in showcase tournaments across North America. As a youth, he played internationally in Norway, gaining exposure to new playing styles and environments that deepened his appreciation for the game. Kyle has coached at multiple levels, including U12 with the Markham Waxers. He also contributed to player development through the Sabres Development Program and has coached U8 hockey with both the Elmhurst Chiefs and the Chicago Phantoms. His approach centers on building confidence, hockey IQ, and strong habits through fast-paced, purposeful practices. He is certified by both Hockey Canada and USA Hockey. Outside of hockey, Kyle enjoys strength training, golf, home improvement projects, and following the NHL. Looking ahead, he’s excited to push players with small-area games and decision-based drills that sharpen awareness and elevate team play. His goal is to develop smart, self-reliant players who support each other and play the game the right way. A standout childhood memory was traveling to Norway to compete against international teams and experiencing hockey in a new culture. If there’s one piece of advice he shares with players, it’s to enjoy the process, stay coachable, and focus on getting better every time they step on the ice.

Jon Woodring

10U/ 2015 Head Coach

Coach Woodring (Woody) has deep roots in Downers Grove, from growing up playing hockey with various local teams like the Huskies and Downers Grove North, to still residing there with his wife Michelle and four children. Coach Woody’s hockey journey continued through College of DuPage, Iowa State, and the University of Illinois Chicago, showcasing a strong commitment to the sport. His extensive coaching experience of 35 years in various roles is truly valuable. Running Downers Grove Woody Hockey at the Downers Grove Ice Arena and seeing over 4000 skaters participate in the past 14 years is a fantastic achievement and speaks volumes about his dedication to developing young talent. Coach Woody holds a Level 4 USA Hockey Certification and long-standing experience as a coach and Skills Coordinator. Coach Woody shows support for he and Michelle’s four children in their athletic endeavors, with Nolan playing D1 ACHA goalie at Illinois, Barron playing D1 Hockey at West Point, Aubrey playing D1 Lacrosse at Winthrop University, and Colton currently at Downers Grove North. His 25-year marriage to Michelle, who is a Principal in St. Charles, highlights a strong family life alongside his coaching career. Coach Woody’s goal is to improve and develop our players while fostering a fun and positive environment for them, their teammates, and all our families, both on and off the ice. Coach Woody believes in listening skills, hard work, and enjoying the time with teammates is pivotal in their development. . He believes that every player's path is unique and encourages each player to savor the journey, as time goes by quickly.

Tony Frazzini

11U/2014, 13U/2012 Assistant Coach

Caydon Edwards

12U/ 2013 Head Coach

Coach Caydon, originally born and raised in Canada, developed his hockey skills through the Peterborough minor hockey system and later played for several junior-level organizations. Following his junior career, he gained extensive professional experience worldwide, including serving as an emergency backup for various local professional teams, Rockford Ice Hogs and Chicago Blackhawks. His diverse playing background has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of coaching at all levels, from Mite hockey up to the Olympic level, working with both players and goalies. Coach Caydon has gained experience in Coaching at the AAA for various teams, including the Windy City Storm, and various elite AAA tournament teams and is moving into his second season with the Chicago Phantoms AAA Program.

Eric Peters

12U/ 2013 Assistant Coach

Phil Lewandowski

13U/2012, 11U/2014 Head Coach

Phil Lewandowski grew up in the Chicagoland area playing youth AAA hockey with Team Illinois. Phil played junior hockey and captained the Dubuque Fighting Saints (USHL) and Compuware Ambassadors (NAHL) leading to a National Junior A championship and earning a full scholarship to play 4 years of Division 1 college hockey at Ferris State University (CCHA). After graduating with a bachelor's degree in business Phil played professional hockey with the Gwinnett Gladiators, Cincinnati Cyclones, Trenton Devils and Peoria Rivermen. Phil has over 10 years of youth hockey coaching experience serving as level director and coach with the Chicago Phantoms and Naperville Sabres organizations providing successful hockey development, player advancement and state championships.

Mike Stanley

14U/ 2011 Head Coach

Mike is originally from Schaumburg, Illinois, and brings an impressive amount of experience to our program, with nine years of coaching and twenty years as a player. As a former player for Illinois State University (ACHA Division 1), Mike has a strong understanding of the game. He has previously coached at the top AA level, including leading teams that achieved national top-10 rankings. Importantly, he has a track record of helping players advance to both the NAHL and collegiate hockey programs. Coach Stanley holds a USA Hockey Level 4 certification and focuses on developing elite athletes. His coaching philosophy emphasizes disciplined habits, fostering a team-first mentality, and building a strong hockey IQ in his players. He is deeply committed to their development both on and off the ice, which we believe will be invaluable to the team.

Mike Herbert

15U/ 2010 Head Coach

Mike's hockey journey began in the greater Chicagoland area, culminating in his youth career with the Chicago Young Americans. He then advanced to play Jr A Tier 2 hockey in Canada. After completing his degree and playing D3 college hockey, Mike returned to Chicago and has since been coaching and working in construction. Over the past 15 years, he has gained extensive coaching experience in various capacities, including Hockey Director, Head Coach, Associate Coach, Assistant Coach, and Skills Instructor for esteemed organizations such as the Chicago Bulldogs, Chicago Young Americans, Team Illinois, and currently, the Chicago Phantoms.

Andrew Corvo

15U/2010 & 16U/2009 Assistant Coach

Joe Corvo

16U/ 2009 Head Coach

Joe Corvo is a Chicago native that played his youth hockey at The Chicago Hawks and Chicago Young Americans. After winning Nationals, he played at Shattuck St. Mary’s and finally, the USHL with the Omaha Lancers. He moved on to play 3 years at Western Michigan before turning professional. Joe played 11 seasons in the National Hockey League for the Los Angeles Kings, Ottawa Senators, Carolina Hurricanes, Washington Capitals and Boston Bruins. The Oak Park native finished his NHL career with 708 games played and amassed 310 points (92 goals/218 assists). Joe also competed in 50 Stanley Cup playoff contests. He also represented his country 3 times, once helping Team USA win its first world junior silver medal while earning best defenseman of the tournament. This will be Joe’s 11th year coaching in youth hockey, 2nd year with the Phantoms.

Sergejs Vahmistrovs

18U 2007/2008 Head Coach

Coach Sergei is originally from Riga, Latvia. Sergei's hockey journey began in his youth, leading him to become a valued member of both the Junior and Senior Latvian National Teams. During this time, he proudly represented Latvia in numerous international tournaments, earning a Bronze Medal at the IIHF World Junior Championship and a Gold Medal at the IIHF European Championship. Coach Sergei's playing experience extends across Junior, Collegiate, and Minor Pro leagues in both North America and Europe. For the past 17 years, Sergei has dedicated himself to coaching youth hockey at the AAA and CSDHL/AA levels. His experience includes serving as the Geneva Cyclones Director of Hockey from 2022 to 2024 and as the Bantam/PW Director for the Leafs Hockey Club from 2014 to 2022, where he celebrated multiple state championships. Before moving to Illinois, Sergei also coached at the AA and AAA levels in Las Vegas, adding to his record of state championship wins.