Steve Maki

Coach Steve is a lifelong athlete who sees participation in sports as an influential teacher of resilience, adaptability, and strength. Growing up in the Tampa suburbs, his passion for sports took root early through participation in competitive gymnastics, baseball, and other youth sports. By high school, hockey became his focus, and at 17, he began coaching as an assistant at All Sports Arena in his hometown. Here, Steve quickly realized that no coach succeeds alone, and he sought mentors who guided him through sports and life, instilling values he would carry forward.
Steve's commitment to service led him to enlist in the U.S. Navy, where his first tour of duty took him to Augusta, GA. During this time as an enlisted Sailor, he had the unique experience of working at Augusta National Golf Club during four Master's Tournaments and interning for the Augusta Lynx of the ECHL. He also gave back to the community by coaching youth hockey, which earned him the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.

Steve continued his athletic journey at the U.S. Naval Academy, playing for the Division II Club Hockey Team and graduating with a B.S. in Political Science in 2006. As a commissioned officer, he completed multiple deployments, including on three submarines and one ship, while staying deeply connected to fitness as his ship's Morale, Welfare, and Recreation Officer. Later, at the Pentagon, Steve served as Command Fitness Leader, running the Fitness Enhancement Program and helping service members meet fitness goals. He also led CrossFit Pentagon, designing programs that motivated and trained athletes at the Pentagon Athletic Center.

Steve's coaching journey expanded through CrossFit, where he dedicated a decade to developing programs for both youth and adults. He later directed operations for a competitive fitness league in D.C. and launched a company that organized leagues in four major cities. When his son started playing hockey, Steve returned to the ice as a coach, rekindling his dedication to youth character and leadership development, ultimately founding Forged by Sports. His holistic approach to athlete development has resonated with countless athletes, parents, and coaches, empowering them to reach their potential.

In 2022, Steve retired after 24 years in the Navy. Along with a B.S. from the U.S. Naval Academy, he holds an MBA from Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School and an MPS in Sports Industry Management from Georgetown University. He is a CrossFit Level 2 Coach with CrossFit certificates in Gymnastics and Mobility, a former professional member of USA Gymnastics and USAG Junior Olympic Coach, and a USA Hockey CEP Level 4 coach. Steve also serves on the Board of Directors for the Montgomery Youth Hockey Association.

Steve's story reflects his dedication to service, passion for sport, and unwavering commitment to empowering athlete development at every level.