INTRODUCING OUR U14 AAA HEAD COACH FOR THE 2026-2027 SEASON
KRIS HOPPER
Getting to know Coach Kris:
What inspired you to become a hockey coach?
Playing AAA hockey in Cambridge built the foundation for my competitive mindset and passion for high-performance sport. Competing at an elite level, including Alliance Championship runs, demanded discipline, accountability, and a commitment to constant improvement lessons that continue to shape how I approach the game today.
Transitioning into coaching was a natural next step. My focus is on developing athletes who understand what it takes to compete: strong habits, attention to detail, and a team first mentality. Coaching both on and off the ice allows me to push players to elevate their performance while building resilience, confidence, and hockey IQ. I’m driven by helping athletes reach elite standards, contribute to winning environments, and grow into complete competitors.
How do you foster team culture?
Our program is built on accountability, discipline, and daily habits that drive high-level competition. We operate within a true AAA development model where expectations are clear: compete hard, train with purpose, and commit to continuous improvement both on and off the ice.
Our staff is aligned in pushing athletes to meet elite standards. We prioritize skill execution, hockey IQ, and team play while building resilience and leadership. Players are challenged in an environment that mirrors higher levels of hockey, preparing them to perform under pressure and contribute to winning teams.
We believe championship performance is the product of trust, unity, and relentless work ethic. When athletes buy into a team-first culture and high expectations, results follow. Our goal is to develop complete competitors players who elevate their teammates, embrace accountability, and are prepared for the demands of elite hockey.
What does it feel like to be coached by me?
Being coached by our staff means training in a AAA environment built on communication, accountability, and growth. We set clear expectations and challenge players to develop both as competitors and as individuals, ensuring they understand what it takes to perform at the AAA levels.
Our coaching experience at high levels of hockey allows us to push athletes with purpose while maintaining an environment where players stay confident, connected, and motivated. We believe development should be demanding and rewarding creating competitors who love the game, embrace the work, and take pride in getting better every day.
What do you want your players to learn or take away from this season?
This season, our goal is to deliver a AAA experience that develops complete athletes on and off the ice. We expect players to compete with purpose, embrace team-first habits, and understand that success comes from collective effort and daily commitment.
We focus on building strong fundamentals, two-way play, and the mindset required to perform at a high level. Players are challenged to push beyond their comfort zone, support their teammates, and take pride in consistent improvement.
By season’s end, we want athletes leaving as more skilled, disciplined competitors with a deeper understanding of the game and what it takes to excel in a AAA hockey environments.
Who is your favorite NHL team?
Toronto Maple Leafs
Who is your favorite retired player? Favorite Current Player?
My favorite retired NHL player is Joe Sakic because he embodied the complete two-way game. He could finish scoring plays, create opportunities for his teammates, and make smart defensive reads to shut down chances all while leading with consistency and hockey IQ.
My Favorite player in the NHL is Connor McDavid
2026 Stanley Cup Champs are...
Toronto Maple Leafs
Who is your favorite music artist?
Sammy Adams
Away from the rink you will most likely find me...
When I’m away from the arena, you’ll most likely find me spending time with friends and family or competing in my men’s outdoor ball hockey league.
Anything else you want people to know about you?
I’m a hockey-driven coach committed to continuous learning and Teaching at an elite player development. I’m always seeking new ways to elevate our athletes because growth is non-negotiable in a high-performance environment.
Stick Taps for sharing
Looking forward to seeing Coach Kris and the U14 AAA Cambridge Hawks in action in 2026-2027
For 2026/2027 programming information, including prep skates and evaluation information - please contact the CMHA Office at [email protected]