INTRODUCING OUR U11 B/BB HEAD COACH FOR THE 2026-2027 SEASON
MIKE SCHAFFER
Getting to know Coach Mike:
What inspired you to become a hockey coach?
It comes down to missing the energy of the rink and wanting to give back to the game I love. After taking a break, I felt "recharged" and realized how much I missed helping players develop their skills and character. Ultimately, I am back because I want to share my experience and make a real impact on the next generation of hockey players.
How do you foster team culture?
I believe that sports are the ultimate classroom for life. While my priority is helping kids build their technical skills and hockey IQ, my ultimate focus is on the person behind the jersey. I am dedicated to creating a great culture by:
Creating a Fun Environment: If the kids aren't enjoying the rink, they are not learning. I strive to make every practice the highlight of their day.
Character Building: Teaching accountability, teamwork, and resilience—lessons that serve them long after they hang up their skates.
Continuous Improvement: My goal is to help every player get better each and every day, preparing them for the jump to higher-level hockey with confidence and a strong work ethic.
By sticking to this road map I feel the culture created will be one that kids will want to be part of for years to come.
What does it feel like to be coached by me?
Rewarding is the word I always come back to. Kids will get a lot out of my coaching which will make them feel like it was the right choice to be part of my team. I am firm but fair and respectful. Kids will feel that they have every opportunity to get better without having their confidence eroded.
What do you want your players to learn or take away from this season?
My goal for the players this season (26/27) is for them to walk away with a 'skills-first' foundation and a genuine passion for the game. At this age, we are focusing on mastering individual technical skills—like explosive skating and creative puck control—while introducing the basics of team tactics and positional play. More importantly, I want them to learn the value of being a great teammate, showing resilience after mistakes, and understanding that hard work is what leads to success on the scoreboard. If they finish the season more confident in their abilities and excited to come back to the rink next year, we’ve won
Who is your favorite NHL team?
Toronto Maple Leafs
Who is your favorite retired player? Favorite Current Player?
Darryl Sittler and Wendel Clark are the former NHL players I molded my game after, the passion and grit as well as skill they showed is something I always tried to emulate in my game. Their work ethic and commitment to the team was the ultimate hence why they were made captains in their day.
Matthew Knies is my favorite current layer as he has the same skills as my idols had. Hockey smarts, physicality, hands and drive is what sets him apart from other younger players.
2026 Stanley Cup Champs are...
Colorado Avalanche
Who is your favorite music artist?
Luke Coombs
Away from the rink you will most likely find me...
On the golf course or watching my son play ball for Cambridge Cubs.
Anything else you want people to know about you?
Go Hawks! I wish all of 2026-2027 teams’ success in their seasons'.Baseball: Played Rep ball through to the Senior Intercounty level in Waterloo. I have coached Rep baseball in both Waterloo and Cambridge, leading teams to numerous tournament wins and league titles.
Golf: As a former Canadian Golf Club Professional, I specialized in technical instruction and junior clinics, honing my ability to break down complex skills for young athletes
Stick Taps for sharing
Looking forward to seeing Coach Mike and the U11 B/BB 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]