
INTRODUCING OUR U16 B/BB HEAD COACH FOR THE 2025-2026 SEASON
MIKE TANSEY 
Getting to know Coach Mike:
What inspired you to become a hockey coach?
Hockey has been a huge part of your life, and coaching gives you a way to stay connected to the sport while passing on your knowledge and passion to the next generation.
You find fulfillment in guiding players, strategizing games, and helping a team improve together. Coaching allows you to lead and teach in an exciting, fast-paced environment.
How do you foster team culture?
A strong hockey team culture is built on leadership, trust, and accountability. Coaches and captains set the tone with hard work and respect, reinforcing values like teamwork, resilience, and discipline. Open communication and team bonding create unity, while recognizing every contribution—from a key goal to a blocked shot—keeps players motivated. A "next shift" mentality helps the team stay focused, and a competitive yet supportive environment pushes everyone to improve. When players trust and challenge each other, they build a culture of success both on and off the ice
What does it feel like to be coached by me?
Your coaching style is a balance of challenge and support, pushing players to improve while fostering a strong sense of teamwork. High expectations are met with encouragement, ensuring that effort, discipline, and accountability are valued just as much as skill. Passion and energy drive the team forward, creating an environment where mistakes become learning opportunities rather than setbacks. Respect and trust are at the core, making every player feel important, regardless of their role. The focus is not just on winning but on growth, resilience, and playing for each other.
What do you want your players to learn or take away from this season?
The goal for this season is for players to develop not only their skills on the ice but also their character, resilience, and teamwork. They should learn the value of hard work, discipline, and accountability—understanding that success comes from consistent effort and commitment. Emphasizing a “next shift” mentality will help them handle adversity,
bounce back from mistakes, and stay focused on growth rather than setbacks. More than anything, they should take away the importance of playing for each other, building trust, and embracing their role within the team. Whether it’s a championship season or one full of learning experiences, they should leave with a stronger work ethic, a deeper
love for the game, and the confidence to apply these lessons both in hockey and in life.
Who is your favorite NHL team?
Toronto Maple Leafs
Who is your favorite retired player? Favorite Current Player?
Erik Lindros #88 / Connor McDavid #97
2025 Stanley Cup Champs are...
Hoping the Leafs but I believe Florida Panthers again or Winnipeg is looking solid
Who is your favorite music artist?
Metallica
Away from the rink you will most likely find me...
Golfing or doing some fun things with my family
Stick Taps for sharing 
Looking forward to seeing Coach Mike and the U16 B/BB 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]