INTRODUCING OUR U13 AAA HEAD COACH FOR THE 2025-2026 SEASON
KRIS HOPPER
Getting to know Coach Kris:
What inspired you to become a hockey coach?
Growing up, I had the opportunity to play AAA hockey in Cambridge, and it was during those years that I truly developed a passion for the game. Winning Alliance Championships along the way, I not only honed my skills but also made lasting friendships with teammates that I still cherish to this day. Those experiences shaped me into the person I am, teaching me valuable lessons both on and off the ice.
As I approached the end of my playing career, I knew I couldn't just walk away from the game I loved. The passion and knowledge I gained through my years of playing pushed me to continue my involvement, which led me to become a skills coach. I wanted to give back to the next generation of players and share the knowledge I had accumulated. Coaching both on and off the ice has been such a rewarding experience. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about seeing players and teams grow, not just as athletes, but as individuals. Watching them succeed, whether through their own personal growth or as part of a team, is what drives me every day.
Being a coach allows me to share what I love and help shape the future of the game, and it’s that connection with the players, the team success, and the joy of watching everyone improve that keeps me so passionate about what I do.
How do you foster team culture?
Fostering a strong team culture is something we deeply value as a staff, and it’s something we work hard to maintain every day. At the heart of our program, we take great pride in running a development program that focuses on every aspect of a AAA hockey structure. We believe that success isn’t just about winning games; it’s about fostering growth—both on and off the ice.
As a staff, we’re fortunate to have a dedicated team of coaches—Kris Hopper, Clayton Krawchyk, Matt Hergott, Riley Baxter, and Chelsey Hopper—who are all committed to the growth and development of every player. We focus on building strong relationships with our players, ensuring that they have the support they need to excel in all areas of their lives, not just in hockey.
Our goal is to provide a program that exposes players to higher levels of hockey, offering them opportunities to grow both as individuals and as a team. By prioritizing skill development, teamwork, and leadership, we aim to prepare them for success at every level, helping them build the skills necessary to reach their fullest potential.
We know that team culture is built on trust, communication, and a shared commitment to excellence. That’s why we focus on creating an environment where every player feels supported, valued, and encouraged to push their limits. Whether it’s through skill development sessions or team-building activities, we ensure that every member of the team understands their role and contributes to our collective success. Through this approach, we’re not just developing hockey players; we’re developing strong, confident individuals who understand the power of collaboration and hard work. If you watch any of the Alliance championship interviews of the team I coached in the 2023-2024 season, you will hear all the players say the reason we won is because we were a family. That continues to be the motive for every team I coach.
What does it feel like to be coached by me?
Being coached by us feels like you're part of a supportive, growth-focused environment where communication is key. We value open conversations with our players, ensuring everyone feels heard and understood. Whether it's on the ice or off, our goal is to help you grow not only as a player but as an individual. We make sure to balance the hard work and dedication that the game requires with a fun, light-hearted atmosphere. We know how important hockey is, but we also understand that you’re kids who deserve to enjoy the game, be themselves, and have fun while doing it.
With a coaching staff that has experience playing at high levels of hockey, we bring both the knowledge and understanding of the game to help you succeed. But above all, we’re here to make sure you love every moment of it and develop both as athletes and as people.
What do you want your players to learn or take away from this season?
For this season, we want our athletes to walk away with a well-rounded experience that helps them grow both on and off the ice. First and foremost, we want them to have fun and truly enjoy the game. Alongside that, it's essential they learn the value of being part of a team – understanding that hockey is a collective effort where every player contributes to the bigger picture.
We aim to help them develop the fundamental skills they need to compete, succeed, and enjoy hockey at a high level. It’s not just about individual success, but also about growing as two-way players who work hard both on and off the puck. We hope they’ll embrace the mindset of going the extra mile, not just for their own improvement, but to help their teammates along the way.
Ultimately, our goal is for our athletes to leave this season not only as better hockey players but also as stronger teammates, with a deeper understanding of the game and what it takes to excel at the highest level they desire.
Who is your favorite NHL team?
Toronto Maple Leafs
Who is your favorite retired player? Favorite Current Player?
My favorite retired player is Mats Sundin, a true legend in the NHL. His leadership and skill on the ice made him one of the best to ever play. As for my favorite current player, it’s definitely Auston Matthews. His incredible scoring ability and overall playmaking have made him one of the most exciting players to watch in the NHL
2025 Stanley Cup Champs are...
Your 2024-2025 Stanley Cup Champions will be your Toronto Maple Leafs… IT'S OUR
YEAR
Who is your favorite music artist?
I have a wide variety of music artists that I enjoy. From country music with artists like Morgan Wallen and Luke Combs, to classic Rock
Away from the rink you will most likely find me...
Away from the rink, you'll often find me playing in men's league ball hockey, spending quality time with family and friends, or preparing for the week ahead, whether it's for upcoming practices or games. I also run a skill development program, working with players across the tri-city area. And when I’m winding down, I enjoy playing Xbox with my friends.
Stick Taps for sharing
Looking forward to seeing Coach Kris and the U13 AAA Cambridge Hawks in action in 2025-2026
For 2025/2026 programming information, including prep skates and evaluation information - please contact the CMHA Office at [email protected]