Staff

Jimmy Milliken is the Owner and President/General Manager of Milliken Sports Group, a respected leader in professional hockey operations, team development, and sports entertainment. With an extensive background spanning both the hockey and music industries, Milliken has built a reputation for creating successful organizations, identifying talent, and driving growth through innovation and leadership.

In professional hockey, Milliken has played a key role in the success of multiple organizations within the SPHL and FPHL. His accomplishments include helping establish and build championship-caliber franchises such as the Carolina Thunderbirds, the inaugural Binghamton Black Bears, and most recently the Blue Ridge Bobcats. His ability to develop strong front-office operations, cultivate winning cultures, and connect with communities has made him one of the most respected executives in minor professional hockey.

Beyond hockey, Milliken has successfully worked in the music industry through artist management and record label operations, bringing the same entrepreneurial vision and business expertise that have defined his sports career. His diverse experience across entertainment and sports has allowed him to develop unique strategies for brand growth, fan engagement, and organizational success.

Known for his passion, determination, and relentless "never quit" attitude, Milliken has become a highly sought-after executive, consultant, and leader. His commitment to excellence, combined with his proven track record of building successful organizations from the ground up, continues to make a lasting impact throughout the professional sports and entertainment industries.

Trevor is currently a student-athlete at Erskine University, where he plays Wide Receiver for the football program. He is entering his final year and is on track to graduate with a Bachelor's Degree in Sports Management.

Throughout his collegiate career, Trevor has demonstrated a strong commitment to teamwork, leadership, and excellence both on the field and in the classroom. His experience as a student-athlete has provided him with valuable skills in communication, time management, discipline, and organizational leadership.

With a passion for sports and a strong educational foundation in sports management, Trevor is preparing to pursue opportunities within the sports industry and the Milliken Sports Group while continuing to make a positive impact on and off the field.

Karri Tibbitts serves as the Director of Business Operations for the Copper City Chiefs, overseeing day-to-day business operations, ticket sales, community outreach, corporate partnerships, merchandise, and game day operations.

Karri brings extensive experience in public administration, leadership, and customer service. She currently serves as Park Director for the Town of Paris, where she manages recreation programs, staff, and community initiatives. Her professional background also includes serving as a Senior Legislative Assistant with the New York State Assembly, a Secretary at Utica College, and a Substitute Teacher with the Sauquoit Valley Central School District.

A graduate of Morrisville State College, Karri is passionate about community engagement and helping build a first-class experience for Copper City Chiefs fans, sponsors, and the Rome community.

David Freed brings nearly 20 years of emergency medicine experience to the Copper City Chiefs as the team's Medical Provider. An Emergency Department nurse with experience in both community hospitals and Level I trauma centers, he specializes in rapid injury assessment, emergency care, and athlete safety.

David is also the owner of Hydrate 315, a Central New York wellness and human performance company that helps athletes maximize recovery and performance through hydration therapy, nutrition, recovery modalities, and wellness optimization.

He is a Certified Peptide Integration Specialist, NASM Certified Sports Nutrition Coach, NASM Certified Nutrition Coach, and NASM Certified Wellness Coach. David also serves as the medical provider for the Mohawk Valley Diamond Dawgs, bringing valuable game-day experience in caring for competitive athletes.

Kevin Krogol brings nearly two decades of NCAA Division III hockey experience to the organization. He spent 17 seasons with the SUNY Morrisville men's hockey program, including 14 years as Head Coach after serving three seasons as an assistant coach. Throughout his collegiate coaching career, Krogol developed student-athletes both on and off the ice while recruiting top talent from across the United States and Canada.

Before beginning his coaching career, Krogol was a standout player at Utica College, where he competed for four seasons and built the foundation for his successful career in hockey. As Player Advisor, he brings extensive knowledge in player evaluation, recruitment, development, and collegiate advancement, making him a valuable resource for both the organization and its athletes.

Trevor Riggins serves as the Director of Information Technology (IT) for the Copper City Chiefs, overseeing the organization's technology infrastructure and digital operations through his company, Turnkey Designs.

With extensive experience in sports and event technology, Trevor specializes in IT support, ticketing systems, point-of-sale and credit card processing, merchandise systems, website integration, and technology solutions that help organizations operate efficiently and deliver a seamless fan experience.

Prior to joining the Chiefs, Trevor served as Director of the Hitachi Energy Arena in Wytheville, Virginia, where he managed facility operations and implemented technology systems supporting arena events and professional hockey.

Trevor's expertise and commitment to innovation play an important role in helping the Copper City Chiefs provide a first-class experience for fans, sponsors, and the community.