Heartland Hockey Camps Announces Pete Carlson as Executive Director

Brainerd, Minn. — Heartland Hockey Camps is proud to announce Pete Carlson as its new Executive Director, effective March 2, 2026. Carlson’s appointment marks a pivotal step in extending Heartland’s four-decade tradition while strategically growing the camp experience for future generations of players and families.

Carlson joins Heartland following an extraordinary career in Minnesota hockey facility leadership. On January 6, 2026, he formally submitted his retirement as Senior Director of Operations and Programming at the National Sports Center (NSC), concluding 35 years in the industry, including an incredible 29-year tenure at the NSC.

As the first-ever manager of the Super Rink when it opened in 1997, Carlson played a central role in shaping one of the most respected ice facilities in the world. His leadership helped establish operational standards, culture, and community impact that have influenced generations of athletes, families, and staff. Over the course of his career, Carlson was directly involved in the sale of more than 400,000 ice hours, a testament to both his experience and his ability to manage large-scale, elite hockey environments.

“Pete’s career has been defined by stewardship, growth, and an unwavering commitment to the hockey experience,” said Kevin Mann, 200x85 Founder and CEO. “Heartland has a special history and culture, and Pete understands how to honor what makes a place great while thoughtfully evolving it. His leadership will ensure Heartland’s legacy not only continues—but thrives.”

Founded in 1985 by Steve and Sandy Jensen, Heartland Hockey Camp has become one of the most iconic hockey camps in the world. Set on a privately owned, 164-acre lakeside campus in Minnesota’s Brainerd Lakes region, Heartland has welcomed players from around the globe for 40 years, offering an immersive, distraction-free environment centered on elite development, personal growth, and lifelong memories.

Under Carlson’s leadership, Heartland will continue to preserve the traditions, culture, and values that have defined the camp for decades, while investing in opportunities to enhance programming, operations, and the overall camper experience—building on the vision set forth by 200×85 following its acquisition of Heartland in December 2025.

“Heartland is a place with deep meaning to so many families,” Carlson said. “I’m honored to help carry that legacy forward while working with the Heartland and 200×85 teams to thoughtfully grow the experience and impact Heartland can have for years to come.”

Carlson’s final day at the National Sports Center will be Friday, February 20, 2026, before officially beginning his new role at Heartland Hockey Camps.