A Plan for Greatness : Tim Mattila & The Rockford IceMen

In the ‘90s and 2000s, Jay Graham of GrahamSpencer played adult hockey on a team called the Rockford Raiders. One of his teammates was a big, skilled, rangy winger named Tim Mattila. Tim was a natural leader on the Raiders and the Head Coach of the Rockford High School Hockey Team, a position he assumed in 1991.

(Left) 2010; Rockford IceMen coach Tim Mattila addresses his team during practice at the Carlson Arctic Ice Arena.  Photo: Scott Morgan – USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images (Right) 2004; Tim Mattila, seen coaching the Rockford IceMen in 2004 shortly before being inducted into the Illinois Hockey Hall of Fame.  Photo: Rockford Register Star – USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

In 1995, Tim told Jay he was going to change the name of the high school program to the Rockford IceMen as part of his plan to elevate the program and, by extension, the quality of hockey at every level in the community. Tim believed that if the IceMen built a dynamic, winning program, younger players would have something to aspire to. And, he asked if GrahamSpencer would consider donating a logo for the fledgling Combined Illinois High School Hockey League team.

Needless to say, Jay said yes. The GS team got to work, and Scott Spencer’s striking woodcut-style figure of Old Man Winter quickly became an enduring and iconic image in Illinois hockey. It gained even more stature as Tim delivered on his promise of building a winning team.

For the next 30 years, the Rockford IceMen became synonymous with excellence in Illinois high school hockey. At the heart of their success stood Head Coach Tim Mattila and his meticulous planning. Under his leadership, the IceMen became a powerhouse, capturing an astounding 16 state championships, including an unprecedented streak of 15 consecutive titles. His influence shaped not only a winning team but a culture of dedication and brotherhood that still defines Rockford hockey.

Tim was an amazing coach who knew exactly how to get the best from every player. He created a culture that has stood the test of time and was the most powerful force in making Rockford the outstanding hockey town it is today. As all players know, at its core, hockey is a big extended family. Tim understood that and built on it. His record–963 wins, 380 losses, 107 ties – is proof of his talent, dedication and methods.

Jay Graham

Beyond their state championships, the 2008-2009 IceMen made history by advancing to nationals, earning a hard-fought third-place finish. That year’s team, led by a strong leadership group, not only won State, but made a deep national run.

Tim’s influence extended far beyond the players who went on to play college hockey. Every one of his players, regardless of their future in the sport, became better people because of his leadership.

Playing for Coach Mattila was such a great experience, not only for what we were able to accomplish on the ice, and for the culture of success, but also for the life lessons that I have been able to take with me for the 26 years since I last donned the Icemen jersey.

Two examples that have stuck with me, are his comments around whether a mistake was a “can’t do, or a won’t do” scenario. Coach Mattila consistently reinforced that a mistake because you “can’t do” something was perfectly acceptable, because you could be taught how to do it. However, a mistake because you “won’t do” something is unacceptable if you want to build a world-class culture. A willingness to push beyond your limits is critical in improving yourself every day.

Another example that I will never forget is when a teammate made a bad decision that had a negative effect on both himself and the team. My teammate was clearly concerned he would not be forgiven. Coach Mattila responded by saying; “Relationships in life operate like a bank account. People make both deposits and withdrawals. If you’ve made enough deposits, making a mistake (withdrawal) will not give you a negative balance, and that mistake can be forgiven.”

These examples showcase why Coach Mattila was a great coach, leader, and role model. I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to play for him, and to represent the tremendous program that he built.

Adam Fray, #20

He also coached at the Illinois Showcase team level seven times, led the Metro Northwest All-Star team 13 times and is a Master Level USA Hockey Coach. In 2016, he was inducted into the Amateur Hockey Association Illinois Hall of Fame.

In 2024, the Rockford Park District officially renamed the ice sheet at Carlson Arctic Ice Arena in his honor. On November 29, an official ceremony drew a jovial crowd of friends, family and former players. Afterwards, a spirited alumni game was played on the newly renamed sheet of ice. Above the entrance, a sign now proudly reads “Coach Mattila Ice Rink” while a commemorative plaque inside the arena tells the story of his impact.

I have the utmost respect for Coach Mattila, whose dedication and countless hours of hard work built a championship program, elevated Rockford hockey to new heights and helped me advance beyond the youth level. Aside from my parents, no one had a greater influence on my journey to achieving my goal of playing NCAA Division I College Hockey than Coach Mattila. His passion, leadership and unwavering belief in his players made all the difference.

One of the lessons that always stuck with me was one that Coach Mattila would always harp on: “getting out of your comfort zone.” He constantly challenged us to push beyond what felt safe or familiar—whether that meant playing a tougher, more physical game, stepping into leadership roles or embracing new responsibilities on the ice. He believed that real growth only happened when we were willing to take risks, battle through adversity and demand more from ourselves than we thought possible. That mindset didn’t just make me a better hockey player—it shaped the way I approach challenges in life.

– Adam Tobias, Rockford Icemen State Championship Teams: 1999-2001

Coach Mattila, clearly touched by the full-house turnout at the ceremony, said in his typically droll fashion, “The IceMen are a family, and they’ll always be my family. What’s kind of cool is they all have kids now. I looked at my players as my kids, but now they have kids. That’s what happens when you turn 66!”

When I think back on my four years being coached by Tim Mattila, one word comes to mind: brutal. Let me explain — no, this isn’t an anecdote in which I air long-harbored grievances. During four years of late-night IceMen practices, when me or one of my teammates messed something up—maybe they hadn’t been paying attention to the marker board, or maybe I was off my angle in net—a single word would often pierce the air: ‘Brutal!’ It was perfect—both to-the-point and said with enough jesting so as to not truly shame the high schoolers. Years later, I still sometimes hear my mentor’s appraisal, when I’m unprepared to teach a class or when, again, I’m off my angle in a beer league game. I find it just as encouraging as I did back then; brutal now, yes, but it ends with a championship.

Jos Sacksteder, Goaltender, #35

Coach Mattila’s hard work, dedication and love for the game put Rockford on the ice hockey map and turned the IceMen into a dynasty. Without Coach Mattila, we would not have been the players we were. Coach Mattila means so much to us and our family, including our late father Ken Ross, who managed the Icemen for 5 years. We love you coach.

The Ross brothers John # 34 and Scotty #10, 4x state champions

It has been an honor to not only play for Coach Mattila for three years in high school as a Guilford Viking and Rockford Icemen, but also to continue my hockey career officiating his teams throughout the many years until his retirement! I have learned so much from him, and I know he has learned a lot from me from the officiating side! His favorite phrases during games ranged from ‘That’s brutal!’ to ‘Don’t worry, Matthews saw it!’ Thanks, Coach, for everything!

Scott Matthews, Defenseman, #25

Coach Mattila was the most influential person in my life outside of my parents. The mindset and principles he instilled in his players last a lifetime. I often find myself reflecting on the lessons he taught us through his “words to win by,” applying them both in coaching my own teams and leading employees in my professional career. One of my favorite sayings of his is, ‘Don’t let a problem become an excuse.’ It’s a simple yet powerful mindset that applies to so many situations, both in life and on the ice.

Tim taught us the importance of setting both short- and long-term goals—and then putting in the work to achieve them. He emphasized making the most of every practice as an opportunity to improve. One of his most impactful phrases, ‘Did I improve today?’ is something I still think about daily.

What’s truly remarkable is that his influence extended far beyond just me—he shaped the lives of hundreds of players before and after my time. Tim built Rockford into a high school hockey powerhouse, and having the rink named after him is a well-deserved tribute to his lasting legacy.

Tim Matthews #33

Coach Mattila’s dedication to the Rockford Icemen was something special. Day in and day out he brought the same energy and passion to the rink. We all knew how much he cared about the organization and we adopted that pride with us during every practice and game.

Nick Santopoalo #47

Coach Mattila epitomizes coaching excellence. He prepared his hockey teams with goal setting, preparation and memorable quotes. ‘Nothing is more important than winning the last game of the year.’ The ultimate yearly prize of the Illinois High School State Championship was our motivation to bolster performance and get out of our comfort zones.  Coach Mattila’s practices were a dynamic mix of intensity, skill development and fun. Our always -expanding playbook of forechecks, face-off plays, neutral zone regroups, power plays and penalty kills was rehearsed with much repetition. ‘If you don’t know, don’t be first,’ Coach would remind those struggling to comprehend the meticulous nature of the latest drill.  Ending practices was always a thrill with breakaways or the rebound game. Coach Mattila’s dedication to Rockford Hockey and the IceMen helped create a dynasty of State Champions.

Matt Lee #17

I had the pleasure of being around Coach Mattila and assisting with some of the IceMen practices over the years. He was always so grateful when some of the ‘guys’ from our old Rockford Raiders team, like Jay Graham and I, would come to help out. Now that I’m coaching youth hockey myself, it’s my turn to thank him. I learned so much from witnessing Tim’s commitment, drive, and passion for the game, including his relentless pursuit of knowledge to improve performance. Honestly, I could not have asked for a better role model. Tim made me want to be a better coach and he still does. Today, I see many of his former players coaching in Rockford’s hockey programs. It’s incredible to watch his influence continue to shape the game at our rinks. When I think about his legacy – the wins, the state championships, the Hall of Fame honors – I realize they can’t truly be quantified, but they can certainly be appreciated. Tim’s impact is, and always will be, immeasurable.Thanks, Coach!

David Casalena

Your name will always stand for excellence in hockey players and human beings in what has become one of the best hockey cities in the Midwest – Rockford, Illinois – thanks to you. We’re proud that the emblem we created for you 30 years ago has been with you through every stride, every hit, every pass and every shot along the way.