About Us
Financial and Life Success as a Pro
Directed at players and their parents, the book highlights the importance of being business savvy about all aspects of a career in professional hockey, from preparing for life events and finding the right advisors to developing a strong personal brand and a solid strategic wealth plan. As passionate about helping players find their way as they are about the game itself, Jaczko and Martini share actionable insights and clear direction for future and current pros and their families.
The importance of preparing early for a career in professional sports.
The whole family should be surrounded by professional, trusted advisors.
Look after your mental health and financial health. A holistic approach.
About the Authors
Mike Jaczko
Mike’s drive for creating SkateGuard originates from his love of hockey and his commitment to the well-being of players, both on and off the ice. The idea for the book came from a personal finance workshop he presented to promising young Calgary Flames players several years ago, after which NHL veterans in attendance encouraged Mike to distil his wisdom into the pages of a book.
With over 20 years of experience in the Canadian wealth management industry, Mike serves as a trusted advisor and partner at KJ Harrison Investors specializing in succession planning, business transition, estate planning, corporate structure, tax planning and family business valuation, Mike offers a holistic and multi-disciplinary approach to his clients, including professional athletes and their families.
Mike’s dedication goes beyond financial guidance, however. He provides proactive and transitional life advice to athletes, assisting them in navigating the unique challenges they may face in their careers. By offering strategic insights and personalized support, Mike strives to ensure that players can make informed decisions, protect their wealth, and secure a prosperous future.
With SkateGuard, Mike and colleague Rob Martini aim to reshape the narrative surrounding young hockey players turning pro and break the cycle of financial distress and adversity. Their hope is to make a lasting impact on the lives of players, their families, and the hockey community.
Rob Martini
Rob firmly believes that the financial and overall well-being of professional hockey players can be safeguarded. Like Mike, he is committed to equipping athletes with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive both during and after their time on the ice.
As a former elite player and international-level hockey coach, Rob brings a unique perspective to wealth advisory. Currently a member of the KJ Harrison Investors Private Client Team in Toronto, Rob works closely with young people who have experienced financial success, including professional hockey players.
As a former NCAA Division I defenceman, Rob understands the challenges and opportunities athletes face during their careers. After leaving college, he has had the honour of serving as the head coach of the Singapore Men’s National Hockey Team, which has competed at such prestigious events as the Asia Winter Games in 2017, the Southeast Asian Games in 2017 and 2019, and the IIHF Division IV World Hockey Championships in 2022 and 2023. Rob is also the defensive skills coach (and proud alumni) of the varsity hockey team at St. Andrew’s College in Aurora, Ontario.
Through comprehensive guidance, education and support – and the SkateGuard initiative – Rob is committed to empowering athletes to make informed decisions, secure their financial future, and thrive in all aspects of life.