Coach Mike Katzenberg

Coach Katzenberg grew up as a multi-sport athlete and continued competing at the collegiate level. Following his playing career, he returned to coach at the college level, where he developed a passion for teaching, mentoring, and helping athletes reach their full potential.

Over the past four years, Coach Katzenberg has been actively involved in the Kenosha Komets Ignition and DEVO programs, helping young players develop foundational skills and a lifelong love for the game. He currently serves as the Kenosha Komets 8UA Head Coach and is committed to creating a positive, challenging, and rewarding environment for every player.

Coach Katzenberg holds USA Hockey’s Coaching Education Program certification at the 10U level and continues to pursue ongoing coaching education and development.

Coaching is about far more than teaching skills and systems. It is about helping young athletes build confidence, discipline, resilience, teamwork, and character—qualities that will benefit them long after their playing days are over.

The coaches who influenced me throughout my hockey journey helped shape the person I am today. My goal is to pass those same values on to the next generation of players.

As a parent, I have also been fortunate to watch my own children grow and develop through sports. Seeing the game through their eyes reminds me how much fun it is to be a kid and how important it is to create an environment where players can learn, compete, and enjoy the game.

My coaching philosophy is rooted in the lessons I learned as both a player and a coach. I was never the most talented player on the ice, but I was always willing to outwork others and continually strive to improve. Those experiences taught me the value of perseverance, accountability, and effort.

I encourage players to focus on becoming the best version of themselves every day. Success is not measured solely by wins and losses, but by continuous growth, learning, and improvement. By setting goals, embracing challenges, and maintaining a positive attitude, players can achieve more than they ever thought possible.

My hockey journey began with the Kenosha Komets as a Mite player and continued through high school. Being part of the Komet family for my entire hockey career has given me a deep appreciation for the traditions, values, and culture that make this organization special. I am proud to continue that tradition and excited to watch my children follow a similar path.

Strong fundamentals are the foundation of long-term player development. My coaching approach emphasizes mastering the basics and building upon them through repetition, effort, and attention to detail.

No matter a player’s age or skill level, they will always rely on the foundation they have built through consistent training and practice. By focusing on skating, puck skills, hockey IQ, teamwork, and work ethic, players develop the tools necessary to succeed both on and off the ice.

“In this jersey, I promise to play for the logo on the front, not the name on the back.”

— Sidney Crosby