Our Team

Michel Petit

Founder and CEO
NHL Veteran | Hockey Operations & League Liaison | Youth & Community Development

Michel brings the experience of an 18-year NHL career, where he earned respect as both a player and leader. With decades of involvement in youth hockey coaching, programming, and league administration, he serves as the face of WSS to NHL leadership—leveraging trusted relationships with league owners, executives, and the NHLPA. Michel leads the development of WSS’s youth and adult programs, school partnerships, and community outreach initiatives. His credibility and influence are instrumental in advancing franchise expansion discussions with the NHL and AHL, while ensuring strong grassroots engagement across local schools and hockey organizations.

Billy Whittaker

President and Co-Founder
Entrepreneur & Local Business Owner | Investor Relations & Business Strategy

Billy is a seasoned entrepreneur and innovator based in Houston, with a personal background in hockey and a strong track record of building and scaling local businesses. As an inventor in the energy technology sector, he has developed and launched multiple innovative solutions that address real-world business challenges. Billy brings deep connections within the regional business community and extensive experience in fundraising and launching growth-stage ventures. At WSS, he leads investor relations, drives strategic partnerships, and oversees business modeling and sponsor negotiations.

Rey Black

EVP Design and Construction
Licensed Architect | Facility Design & Construction Oversight

Rey is a licensed architect and a native New Yorker who has worked on many high-profile and large-scale projects, such as Hudson Yards, The Seaport in Lower Manhattan, and MiMA, to name a few. Rey brings over 35 years of experience, including mixed-use luxury high-rise residential, hotel, and mixed-use entertainment facilities. She leads all aspects of facility planning and architectural design, working closely with engineers, city officials, and real estate developers to bring large-scale projects to life. Rey is the driving force behind the vision and execution of WSS’s state-of-the-art, multi-use hockey and entertainment venue designed to meet NHL and AHL standards, while creating a significant community destination and cultural landmark.

David Steadman

Director of Community & Hockey Operations
Community Development | Hockey Coordinator

David is a visionary leader and the driving force behind the growth of hockey in Houston. As Founder, CEO, and President of the Houston Hockey Community (HHC), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, he has spearheaded transformative initiatives to make hockey accessible, inclusive, and sustainable for individuals of all ages and abilities. Under his leadership, HHC has launched programs like the Street Fleet & NHL Street, designed to introduce the sport to underserved neighborhoods, and adaptive hockey programs that provide veterans—including those with disabilities—opportunities to engage in the game. He has also forged partnerships with local ice rinks to deliver youth programs such as Tim Hortons Timbits and developed adult leagues to expand access across Greater Houston.

In 2023, Steadman oversaw the opening of HHC’s innovative Learn to Play Center in Jersey Village, featuring floor and street hockey facilities, dryland training zones, and plans for synthetic ice to support year-round development. His ability to combine grassroots initiatives with high-profile events has elevated Houston’s hockey profile nationally. Signature achievements include organizing an NHL Alumni game that raised over $150,000 for Hurricane Harvey relief and launching the inaugural NHL Alumni Weekend in 2025, complete with a celebrity gala and tournament. Through his strategic vision and unwavering commitment, Steadman continues to position Houston as an emerging hub for hockey while fostering a dynamic and inclusive community around the sport.

Francesca Salvatore

VP Business Operations
Corporate Finance & Strategic Planning | Construction Management

With 15+ years of experience in corporate finance, strategic planning, and construction management, Francesca brings a sharp, results-driven approach to every project. Armed with a BBA in Accountancy and Business Management and a Certificate in Buildings & Construction, she bridges financial strategy with on-the-ground execution. Francesca excels at leading complex development initiatives, optimizing capital structures, and driving data-informed cultures that fuel innovation, efficiency, and long-term growth.

Our Team

Contact us