Chasing the dream & keeping the next generation safe
Hayley Kelleher: Founder & CEO
Growing up in Natick, Massachusetts as the daughter of a Division 1 hockey player, I was inspired from a young age to follow in my mother’s footsteps and pursue my dreams on the ice. I grew up a rink rat. Through countless hours of hard work and unwavering determination, I achieved that dream by earning a spot at Clarkson University, home to the three-time national champions.
As a freshman business student, I was challenged to pitch a unique idea to a panel of judges—a moment that sparked the creation of Slice Guard. This product was born from a desire to solve real issues faced by youth hockey players, including discomfort, lack of consideration, and impractical designs in laceration protection gear. Through extensive surveys and input from players now mandated to wear neck guards, I realized the potential to create something revolutionary.
Now, I’ve made the move to Union College in the capital region of New York, where I’m proud to represent the Union College Women’s Hockey Program — an emerging force in the ECAC. Transferring to Union has given me the opportunity to continue growing both as an athlete and an entrepreneur. I will pursue a self-designed major in Entrepreneurship, which will allow me to align my academic work with the real-world development of Slice Guard. As our team continues its climb toward ECAC success, Slice Guard will grow right alongside that journey — built on the same values of grit, resilience, and relentless drive for excellence. My commitment to leading on the ice goes hand-in-hand with my mission to lead innovation in hockey safety.
Slice Guard is more than just a product; it’s a mission to redefine safety and comfort for the next generation of hockey players. By addressing the needs of young athletes, I aim to ensure they can play confidently, comfortably, and stylishly while pursuing their dreams.
I’m committed to inspiring youth hockey players to chase their goals both on and off the ice, proving that with passion, perseverance, and innovation, anything is possible. Together, let’s build a safer, more supportive future for the sport we love.
