About The Royals Staff

As General Manager, J.C. oversees scouting, recruitment, and player development for the Markham Royals. A longtime presence in Ontario hockey, he brings valuable experience as both a junior-level player and coach, helping build competitive teams while supporting athletes in advancing to higher levels of the game.

Prior to joining the Royals, J.C. served as Head Coach of the Toronto Nationals U16 AAA program from the 2022–23 through 2025–26 seasons. During his tenure, he played a key role in developing elite young talent, fostering a high-performance culture, and preparing players for success at the next level. His extensive hockey knowledge, leadership, and commitment to player development continue to be instrumental in the growth and success of the Markham Royals organization.

Steve McSwain enters his second season as Head Coach of the Markham Royals, bringing a strong background in coaching and player development at the AAA, junior, and international levels. Over the course of his career, he has developed a reputation for building competitive teams, establishing strong team cultures, and helping players maximize their potential both on and off the ice.

Prior to joining the Royals, Steve spent five years as a head coach with the Vaughan Kings organization and two seasons as an assistant coach with the Toronto Patriots. He has also gained valuable international coaching experience with Kunlun Red Star and Team China’s U18 program.

Steve’s coaching philosophy is centered on accountability, work ethic, attention to detail, and continuous development. He is committed to creating an environment that challenges players to grow, compete, and prepare for success at the next level. Entering his second season in Markham, Steve remains focused on developing a winning culture and helping his players achieve their individual and team goals.

Vincent joined the Royals coaching staff in 2022/23, but it wasn’t his first stop in Markham. Prior to becoming a coach, Vincent played four years in the OJHL, beginning with the Orangeville Flyers and Brampton Admirals, before playing his 20-year-old season with the Royals in 2019-20. He was a two-time All-Star as a player and returned to the festivities as an assistant coach in 2023/24.

Outside the Royals, Vincent also coaches in the GTHL and is the owner and head trainer at High Pace Hockey Development. He works across the GTA and uses his knowledge of the game to enhance minor hockey player development.

Eden joined the Royals for the 24/25 season and will be returning for his 3rd season with the team. Prior to that he coached for 3 seasons with the Mississauga Chargers and coached in the GTHLs u18 division for 8 seasons split between the Don Mills Flyers and Mississauga Senators. 

He is also a head instructor for North Toronto’s skills programs teaching potential future Royals. 

Michael-Antonio Vergara (MAV) is the proud owner of MAV Goaltending.

MAV grew up playing AAA hockey in the GTHL for the North York Rangers, Toronto Redwings and Toronto Marlboros. After that MAV spent time playing Junior hockey for the Brampton Capitals of the OJHL and the Brampton Bombers of the GOJHL.

In addition to having his own Goalie School MAV is currently an On-Ice Hockey development Coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs Youth Hockey program.

Mariola Garcia is an Assistant Athletic Therapist with the Markham Royals, having joined the team for the 2023–24 season. She holds a CAT(C) certification in Athletic Therapy and supports the team through injury assessment, rehabilitation, and return-to-play planning throughout the season.

Alongside her role with the Royals, Mariola works with the National Ballet of Canada and collaborates with sports medicine and orthopedic surgeons in a downtown Toronto clinic, gaining experience across both elite sport and performing arts.

Breanna Kenning is the Head Therapist with the Markham Royals, having held the position since joining the team during the 2021-22 season. She holds her DC and a MS in Sports Medicine and plays a pivotal role in keeping the players healthy and performing at their best. 

Outside of her role with the Royals, Breanna works as a Chiropractor with Athletics Canada and also at a local Markham clinic focusing on performance and rehab care of athletes.

Sean has been involved in Junior ‘A’ hockey for nearly 20 years, spending 10 years with the Pickering Panthers before joining the Markham Royals in 2015.

Sean, or “Seany” as he’s known, always brings a positive and supporting attitude to the rink and ensures our players are properly equipped for every game throughout the season.

Jodi has been involved in hockey marketing, fundraising, and coordinating special events for 30 years. She enjoys meeting Markham residents, fans, schools and businesses in the area as she strives to positively impact the community with the Markham Royals.

Jodi brings with her over 35 years of experience in the Marketing and Special Events industry, both professional and recreational, as well as volunteer work with several different communities.

Over the past 30 years, the Lanzarotta family has been billeting hockey players and has coordinated with families and out-of-town hockey clubs, ensuring a safe and positive placement for the players. Jodi has billeted and placed players from across Canada, the United States, and Europe.

Brad is responsible for the development of athletes. He is a big part of the team’s technical committee and is responsible for continuously monitoring, improving, and developing the players’ skills through training.

Stuart has been the Governor and Owner of the Royals since the team first came to Markham. Previously, Stuart owned the Georgetown Raiders from 1999/00 to 2002/03. He then took over the Hamilton Red Wings ahead of the 2003/04 season, moving the team to Markham ahead of 2015/16.

Stuart has also been the Chairman of the OJHL Board of Governors since 2021/22, previously holding the title of Vice-Chairman from 2018/19 to 2020/21.

Jerrold Annett brings senior executive corporate leadership, with a strong operational focus and long-term vision. His experience building companies from the ground up in competitive markets positions him well to drive the Markham Royals’ growth and player advancement.