INTRODUCING OUR U11 AA/A HEAD COACH FOR THE 2026-2027 SEASON
MATT LYLE
Getting to know Coach Matt:
What inspired you to become a hockey coach?
I’ve been involved in sports my entire life, as a player, a coach, and an educator and coaching hockey is where all of those passions come together. I’ve played professional sports and have coached at every level, from youth hockey through to semi-professional and professional environments. Those experiences have shown me how powerful the right coaching environment can be in helping young athletes grow both on and off the ice.
As a high school teacher since 2010, I understand how kids learn best: through clear expectations, consistency, encouragement, and accountability. My goal as a coach is to help players build strong fundamentals, confidence, and work habits, while keeping the game fun, challenging, and team-focused. Watching young athletes develop skills, resilience, and a genuine love for hockey is what continues to inspire me to coach.
How do you foster team culture?
I believe strong team culture starts with clear expectations, consistency, and mutual respect. From day one, I focus on creating an environment where effort, accountability, and teamwork are non-negotiable. Every player is expected to show up prepared, support their teammates, and take pride in doing things the right way—on and off the ice.
Drawing from my experience as a teacher and coach at various levels, I emphasize communication and trust. Players are encouraged to ask questions, take responsibility for their development, and understand their role within the team. Mistakes are treated as learning opportunities, not failures.
At the U11 level, it’s also important that hockey remains fun. I work to build a positive, inclusive atmosphere where players feel valued, challenged, and confident. When kids enjoy coming to the rink and feel connected to their teammates, strong culture follows and performance naturally improves.
What does it feel like to be coached by me?
Being coached by me means being part of a structured, positive, and supportive environment where expectations are clear and effort is valued every day. Practices are purposeful and challenging, but always age-appropriate, with a strong focus on fundamentals, hockey IQ, and skill development. Players are encouraged to work hard, ask questions, and take pride in their improvement.
I coach with consistency and fairness. Players know where they stand, understand their role, and are held accountable in a way that builds confidence rather than fear. Feedback is honest and constructive, with an emphasis on growth and learning from mistakes.
Most importantly, it feels enjoyable. I want players to love coming to the rink, feel supported by their coach and teammates, and leave each season more confident, both as hockey players and as people.
What do you want your players to learn or take away from this season?
I want players to leave this season with strong fundamentals, improved hockey IQ, and a clear understanding of what it means to compete the right way. At the U11 AA level, development is the priority, and my goal is for every player to make measurable progress in their skills, confidence, and decision making.
Beyond on ice development, I want them to learn the value of effort, accountability, and being a great teammate. Supporting each other, and handling both success and loses with maturity are lessons that extend far beyond hockey.
Additionally, I want players to be prepared for the next step in their hockey journey, whether that is AAA tryouts or higher levels of competition. By building strong habits, solid fundamentals, and game awareness, players will have the tools and confidence they need to succeed at the next level.
I want players to finish the season loving the game, confident in themselves, proud of their growth, and excited about the next steps in their hockey journey.
Who is your favorite NHL team?
Sadly, the Toronto Maple Leafs
Who is your favorite retired player? Favorite Current Player?
Chris Chelios is my favorite retired NHL player because he embodied everything I admire as a defenceman: toughness, intelligence, and consistency. He played at an elite level for decades, showing incredible durability and dedication to his craft. I’ve always respected how he combined strong defensive play with the ability to move the puck effectively, contribute offensively, and make smart decisions under pressure.
Beyond his on-ice skills, Chelios’ leadership and competitiveness stood out—he was never afraid to take responsibility in key moments, and he led by example. As a defenceman myself, I’ve always looked up to how he balanced physicality with hockey IQ, demonstrating how a player can dominate defensively while still being a key part of his team’s offense. Chelios represents the standard of professionalism, work ethic, and commitment that I try to pass on to the players I coach.
Quinn Hughes is my favorite current NHL player because he combines elite skating, vision, and hockey IQ in a way that makes him a constant threat on the ice. As a defenceman, I admire how he reads the game, moves the puck with speed and precision, and joins the rush without ever compromising his defensive responsibilities. His ability to make smart plays under pressure and contribute offensively while still being defensively responsible is something I aspire to emulate in my own game and coaching.
2026 Stanley Cup Champs are...
Edmonton Oilers (Let's bring the cup home to Canada!)
Who is your favorite music artist?
I can't say I have a favorite artist as I listen to so many genres of music. Truthfully, it all depends on the day.
Away from the rink you will most likely find me...
Away from the rink, I love spending time with my family. You’ll often find us golfing, enjoying the outdoors, or camping together. I also value time to relax and recharge, whether that’s exploring nature, hitting the golf course, cooking or simply enjoying quality time with loved ones.
Anything else you want people to know about you?
I’m passionate about helping young athletes grow both on and off the ice, combining my experience in professional and semi-professional sports with over a decade as a high school teacher. I value hard work, integrity, and teamwork, and I strive to model these qualities for my players every day.
Outside of hockey, I’m a family-oriented person who loves spending time outdoors whether golfing, camping, or exploring new places. I also enjoy cooking, which gives me a chance to be creative and unwind. I take pride in being approachable, supportive, and encouraging, and I try to create positive experiences for both players and their families.
Stick Taps for sharing
Looking forward to seeing Coach Matt and the U11 AA/A 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]