OUR TEAM
A Team Approach for Team Players
While strategic guidance, industry insights and plan accountability is provided by Link’s Board of Directors and Link’s Client Advisory Board, day to day execution of Link’s strategic plan is led by Link’s Executive Management team. Yet, at Link Management we are well aware that any plan is only as strong as the entirety of the team prepared to implement it, and it is the strength, diversity and passion of Our Team that sets Link apart. Our unique, collaborative and unified approach to client service allows our clients to truly feel they have the specialized expertise and combined strength of a team that is there with them and for them. With clarity of purpose and focused execution, the Link Team is committed to a single outcome…To Make a World of Difference by Being Different™.
MANNY M. SCHMIDT
Founder, President & CEO
Manny is the founder, President and CEO of Link Management International and has been a key influencer within the Sports and Entertainment Industry for more than 21 years. A graduate of the University of Alberta, Manny oversees and directs all aspects of Link Management, its various operational divisions and all members of the Link Management Team. Read more.
ANDY CHENGALATH
Vice President, Agency Talent, Brands & Market Development
In his capacity as Vice President of Agency Talent, Brands & Partnerships and having graduated top of his class in Athlete Management at SMWW. Andy oversees all agency talent strategies and recruitment as well as all of the agencies player brands, endorsements and strategic partnerships for all of our Hockey and iSport Division athletes. Read more.
MICHAEL SOUSTER MSc, BKin (Hons)
Athlete LTD, Performance & Testing
With a background at the national level in Athletics and a post secondary education in exercise physiology, Michael has dedicated his working life to developing athletes for their sport. Academically, Michael completed his undergraduate degree in Kinesiology at the University of Calgary, and his Masters of Science degree in Exercise Physiology from the University of Alberta. Over the past eight years, Michael has instructed at Mount Royal University in the area of exercise physiology and strength training. Read more.
SHAWN BELLE
Sr. Associate Advisor, Pro Player & Prospect Services
“From playing professionally across the globe to becoming a trainer and a coach, I owe it all to the game. I know what it takes to get to the next level and I feel it’s important to share that with up-and-coming athletes. Through Link, it is my mission to help players achieve their dreams.” Read more.
JORDAN DRAPER
Sr. Associate Advisor, Pro Player & Prospect Services
Jordan’s love for sports was evident at a very young age. He started skating at 2 years old and had dreams of becoming a hockey player. When Jordan was old enough to start playing the game at 4 years old, it would become the beginning of a long hockey career. Playing his minor hockey in Sherwood Park, it opened doors for him to continue with his passion past minor hockey. Read more.
PAT CONACHER JR.
Associate Advisor, Pro Player & Prospect Services
Pat Conacher joined the team in 2021 and is based in the Phoenix, Arizona marketplace. Pat Jr. of course son of Stanley Cup Champion Pat Conacher Sr. and now a current scout for the Vancouver Canucks. Pat brings a wealth of knowledge to the team and playing as a goalie himself brings a sense of growing up and around hockey all his life. Pat Conacher Jr. played for the Penticton Panthers in the BCHL as well as the Cowichan Capitals. He now coaches in JR. Arizona Coyotes program and represents players coming up in the US system. He brings a wealth of knowledge, prowess and professionalism to the team and is a key part of the US player growth for Link Mgmt.