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.
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.
Contact us
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