Five Things to Know About Coach Paul (PJ) Eberhardt

For Coach Paul “PJ” Eberhardt, hockey is far more than a sport—it’s a lifelong commitment to developing young athletes on and off the ice. With deep roots in the sport as both a player and a coach, PJ brings decades of experience, perspective, and passion to every team he leads. Here are five things to know about Coach PJ Eberhardt.

 1. He Grew Up in the Sport
PJ grew up in Wilmette, IL, where he played youth hockey with the Wilmette Braves. His love for the sport continued into college, where he played NCAA Division III hockey at St. Norbert College in De Pere, WI. A forward during his playing days, PJ admired the creativity and vision of legends like Wayne Gretzky and Denis Savard, and he was a longtime fan of Steve Larmer.

Fun fact: While in college, PJ played guitar in local bars to earn extra spending money.

2. Hockey Is Family—and a Way of Life
PJ has been married to his wife, Amy, for 32 years. The two met in college and raised three sons Justin, Adam and Kerry, all of whom grew up playing hockey with the Glacier IceDogs. All three attended Carmel Catholic High School, where Adam and Kerry also played hockey—further deepening the family’s connection to the game.

3. He Brings 20+ Years of Coaching Experience
PJ has been coaching hockey for over 25 years. Early in his career, he gravitated toward coaching younger players, at his original home ice, beginning in the early 1990s with the Wilmette Braves. After stepping away from coaching for a period to pursue a career in advertising and focus on family, PJ returned to the ice with the Glacier IceDogs, who call Glacier Ice Arena home. His return made an immediate impact—his first year back coaching travel culminated in a State Championship in 2007-2008.

In 2015, PJ joined Carmel Catholic High School Hockey. Today, he serves as Varsity Head Coach and Hockey Director, a role he has held for the past five years. While his playing background laid the foundation, PJ’s true passion lies in the process. “Helping young athletes appreciate their strengths while turning weaknesses into strengths is what it’s all about,” PJ said with a smile.

4. He Believes Hockey Builds Effort, Grit, and Character
For PJ, hockey is one of the best teachers of life skills. The sport rewards commitment, teamwork, and effort—qualities that extend far beyond the rink. He emphasizes grit and perseverance, reminding players that success isn’t always immediate. Two quotes that guide his coaching philosophy include:

“You may have to fight a battle more than once to win it.”

“Satisfaction lies in effort, not in the attainment. Full effort is full victory.”

5. The IceDogs, Carmel Catholic, and Glacier Are Home
PJ has spent 16 seasons with the Glacier IceDogs and currently serves as the Squirt Central States Minor head coach. Both of his programs share a strong culture rooted in connection, communication, and belonging—and both call Glacier Ice Arena home. For PJ, what makes Glacier special isn’t just the ice—it’s the people. “The people at Glacier are what make the place feel like home,” PJ commented, pointing to rink management and staff including Eric Schneider, Bobby Scott, Sandy Anderson, and Ken Johnson. “They do a tremendous job supporting the coaches, and I know the players and parents can see it and feel it, too.”