Valkyries 12U Coaches
Head Coach: Taia Hugelen
Taia (Klaman) Hugelen is the Head Coach of the Valkyries 12U team with six years of experience coaching youth hockey and eight years of competitive playing experience. She began playing hockey later than most but quickly excelled, earning a starting varsity position as an eighth grader for the Dickinson High School girls varsity team.
During her high school career, Taia set school records for most goals by a defender, most goals in a regular season, and most points in a regular season. As a junior, she ranked second in the state in points while leading the state in scoring. She was a three-time All-State selection, earned All-State Tournament Team honors twice, and helped the team place fifth at the state tournament in back-to-back seasons. Known for her offensive style of play from the defensive position, she continued her career at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minnesota, playing one collegiate season before changing her educational path.
Taia believes great teams are built on effort, attitude, and accountability. She challenges players to work hard, compete every shift, and take pride in continuous improvement, while maintaining a positive and encouraging atmosphere. Her approach balances high expectations with support, helping players reach their full potential.
Taia is passionate about developing confident, hardworking athletes and inspiring the next generation of female hockey players while fostering a positive, supportive team environment.
Outside of hockey, Taia enjoys traveling, hiking, golfing, and spending time at the lake with family.
Assistant Coach: Jaren Hugelen
Jaren Hugelen is the Assistant Coach of the Valkyries 12U team. He brings 15 years of competitive playing experience, including four collegiate seasons at the University of Mary.
During his playing career, he earned All-WDA honors twice, All-State honors once, and played three years for Team ND. In his senior year, he led the state in points among defensemen. At the collegiate level, Jaren was named Co-Rookie of the Year by the team and helped the Marauders win back-to-back national championships.
In addition to his playing background, Jaren has eight years of youth coaching experience and one year of varsity coaching experience. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Coaching and Sports Studies, bringing both practical experience and formal education to his coaching role.
Jaren’s coaching philosophy centers on accountability, respect, and effort. He enjoys building strong connections with athletes and helping prepare them not only for competition, but for what’s next in their lives beyond hockey.
Outside of hockey, Jaren enjoys fishing, hunting, golfing, traveling, and watching the Los Angeles Dodgers.