Coach Mergen enters his 16th season with the BHBS Varsity Hockey Program as an assistant coach on Jim Buffoline’s staff.
Coach “Mergs” primarily works with the offense while also assisting with bench management, opponent scouting, and skill development.
As a Level 5 Certified Coach through USA Hockey, Mergen incorporates a variety of motivational techniques to get the most out of his student-athletes at Burnt Hills/Ballston Spa. He emphasizes strong training habits and mental toughness to support consistent performance both on the ice and in the classroom.
During the offseason, Mergen contributes to the team’s summer programs. Off the ice, he maintains the team’s website, assists with scheduling, and leads team film sessions.
A lifelong resident of Niskayuna, NY, Mergen has been coaching various levels of hockey for the past 25 years:
- Section 2 HS Development 18U - Bethlehem Youth Hockey
- Section 2 HS Development 18U - Schenectady Youth Hockey
- Section 2 18U Elite - Adirondack Youth Hockey
- Section 2 18U Elite - Schenectady Youth Hockey - NYSAHA Finalist
- Section 2 16U Elite - Schenectady Youth Hockey - NYSAHA Semi Finalist
- 18U - Schenectady Youth Hockey
- 14U - Schenectady Youth Hockey - NYSAHA Qualified for NYS tournament
- 8U - Schenectady Youth Hockey
- 21+ Adult Women’s Hockey in Clifton Park, NY
Robert currently resides in Niskayuna, NY with his wife Kimberly and their two children, Thomas and Sophia.
