Who we are
My mission is to inspire individuals to become the best leaders and teammates they can be. Rooted in service, driven by purpose, and built on character. With over 30 years of experience at the world’s preeminent leadership institution, the United States Military Academy at West Point, I’ve seen what true leadership looks like under pressure.
When I speak, I do so through the lens of two of the most remarkable leaders I’ve ever known, 1st LT. Derek Hines and MAJ. Thomas Kennedy. They were not only exceptional Army officers, but incredible teammates, sons, brothers, and men. Their legacies are the heartbeat of my message.
Their stories are not just for the military—they’re for anyone who wants to lead with integrity, lift those around them, and become someone others can count on. Whether in a locker room, a boardroom, or a classroom, I believe leadership is a choice we make every day. My goal is to help others unlock that potential and build teams—and lives—that endure.
The Men behind the message
1ST LT. Derek hines
“Hinesy”
Derek Hines was more than a standout hockey player at West Point; he embodied the true spirit of leadership, selflessness, and commitment. As Coach Brian Riley reflects, "One of the most important jobs I have is to make sure the legacies of our former players live on... They were obviously good hockey players, but more importantly they were great people, young men and great leaders."
After graduating in 2003, Derek chose to serve on the front lines, joining the 173rd Airborne Brigade. Tragically, he was killed in action on September 1, 2005, in Afghanistan. His courage and dedication continue to inspire, reminding us of the profound impact one individual can have. Coach Riley emphasizes this legacy, stating, "We enjoy our freedom in this country because of all of the brave men and women like 1LT Derek Hines who have paid the ultimate sacrifice."
At Gold Medal Leadership, Derek's story serves as a cornerstone of our mission, exemplifying the "Power of One"—the idea that a single person's commitment and integrity can uplift and transform those around them.
Maj. Thomas Kennedy
“TK”
Major Thomas "TK" Kennedy exemplified the essence of leadership, selflessness, and dedication. A graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and a former defenseman for the Army Black Knights hockey team, TK's commitment to his teammates and country was unwavering.
Coach Brian Riley fondly recalls TK's character, stating, "TK was an unbelievable teammate. He was always looking out for his teammates over himself. That is what made him so loved."
After his time on the ice, TK continued to serve at West Point as a Tactical Officer and the Officer Representative for the hockey team, further influencing and mentoring cadets with the same passion and integrity he displayed as a player. His dedication extended beyond the academy; he was the President of the Army Hockey Alumni Association, always finding time to support others despite his numerous responsibilities
Tragically, on August 8, 2012, while serving in Afghanistan, TK made the ultimate sacrifice. In honor of his legacy, the Army hockey locker room was dedicated as the Major Thomas "TK" Kennedy Locker Room. Coach Riley emphasized the significance of this dedication: "This locker room honors the memory of, not a former Army hockey player, but it honors the memory of an American hero."
At Gold Medal Leadership, TK's story serves as a powerful reminder of the "Power of One"—how one individual's commitment and character can inspire and uplift an entire community.
John Patrick RIley
“Jack”
Jack Riley’s name is etched into the very fabric of American hockey. As head coach of the 1960 U.S. Olympic team that won the country’s first-ever hockey gold medal, Jack helped spark a national love for the sport — and paved the way for generations to come. But his greatest influence wasn’t just in the record books — it was in the lives he changed and the legacy he built.
At West Point, where he led the Army Hockey program for over three decades, Jack turned the team into a standard of grit, honor, and purpose. In doing so, he began what would become the Riley family legacy — now known across the country as the “First Family of American Hockey.”
When Brian Riley told his father he wanted to coach, Jack didn’t offer praise or platitudes. He gave a simple but powerful directive:
“I’ll give you one piece of advice—you show your players you care for them more as people than as players. If you can do that, you create the power of one.”
That moment planted the seed for The Power of One — the belief that one person, leading with intention and heart, can lift others in ways that last a lifetime.
“My father believed in serving something greater than yourself,” Brian says. “He lived that every day, and it’s what I’ve carried with me my entire career. He showed me that coaching isn’t about you — it’s about what you can give.”
Jack Riley wasn’t just a legend — he was a leader who shaped a family, a program, and a nation’s game.
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