INTRODUCING OUR U13 B/BB HEAD COACH FOR THE 2026-2027 SEASON
MIKE DI FELICE
Getting to know Coach Mike:
What inspired you to become a hockey coach?
I have always found fulfillment in helping others succeed. As a leader in the workplace for over 20 years, I’ve gained valuable experiences that translate seamlessly into coaching. My involvement in coaching youth began when my children started playing sports, and I’ve loved every moment of guiding and watching young athletes learn and grow.
Hockey has been a lifelong passion of mine, and I truly believe the sport offers invaluable life lessons. Through the game, players develop responsibility, respect, and a strong work ethic - qualities that shape them into not just better athletes, but better people.
How do you foster team culture?
To me, culture is defined by the behaviors people choose to contribute - not just because they have to, but because they want to. While rules provide structure and boundaries, a strong team culture is built when individuals are motivated to exceed expectations for their team and themselves.
My role as a coach is to provide the knowledge, tools, and training necessary for success while fostering an environment that promotes positivity, encourages learning from mistakes, values hard work, and celebrates achievements. By creating this kind of culture, players develop a deep sense of accountability and a drive to grow both as athletes and individuals.
What does it feel like to be coached by me?
Being coached by me means knowing that effort is the top priority. I set high expectations for focus, hard work, and a willingness to learn, and in return, I provide an environment where players can develop at a pace that works for them.
I believe in "hiring the right person and teaching the skill". For me, attitude and effort matter more than raw talent. Players who give their best - so long as they give it their all (and sometimes all that someone has to give is 60%) - will always have a safe space to grow, improve, and gain confidence under my guidance.
What do you want your players to learn or take away from this season?
The greatest lesson I want my players to learn this season comes in three parts:
1. If you truly want something, it’s yours to achieve - but you have to want it.
2. The biggest rewards often come from putting the team first.
3. Success isn’t just about the outcome - it’s about feeling proud of your effort.
Players will only exceed their own expectations if they choose to. No amount of pressure from parents or coaches can drive them beyond the bare minimum. Our role is to create a safe, supportive environment where they feel empowered to push themselves.
True growth comes from embracing both victories and losses and recognizing the lessons in each. Regardless of the outcome, my players will learn that effort has no substitute. At the end of the day, they’ll be able to look in the mirror with pride, knowing they gave everything they had - not just for themselves, but for their teammates as well.
Who is your favorite NHL team?
I'm a Leafs fan born and raised.
I'm an Oilers fan by choice from about the age of 16.
I'm a Blackhawks fan because that's my son's favorite team.
Who is your favorite retired player? Favorite Current Player?
Grew up being a big fan of "Killer" Doug Gilmour, as well as his teammates and former Leafs - Wendal Clark, Felix Potvin and Curtis Joseph (I was/am a goalie as well) - in fact I still use my 25 year old Itech Pro with a custom Cujo paint job to this day! I loved them because they were Leafs, and I like their style of play.
Favorite retired non-Leaf was Mike Modano - always had to have the Modano curve on my road hockey sticks. I loved how smooth Modano was - still the "best" American to ever play in my opinion.
Favorite current player is the Gr8 Alexander Ovechkin - it was always a non-popular opinion that I would prefer Ovi over Sid on my team Love the combination of a super skilled player who is not scared of contact, and if fact has dished out some huge highlight reel hits along with his highlight reel goals.
That said, being as though he is on the verge of retirement, I would say my new favorite player will be Connor Bedard - because my son likes him, he's on an Original 6 team (wearing Hawks colors), and I'm enjoying him mature and grow his game in The Show.
2026 Stanley Cup Champs are...
Gonna stay with my heart and vote Oilers, and think the Canes will take a run - repeat of the '06 Cup Final 20 years later...
Who is your favorite music artist?
I listen to multiple genres, but you'll most often catch me listening to Oasis, Lincoln Park, Kid Rock or 30 Seconds to Mars, and Zach Bryan, Morgan Wallen or Dallas Green (City and Color).
Away from the rink you will most likely find me...
At the rink, haha. When I'm not coaching, I'm typically at the arena playing. I am currently in three Men's Leagues winter and summer. So if you're looking for a spare!
Aside from that, it would be my preference to be on a lake in front of a fire.
Anything else you want people to know about you?
I can seem intensely focused but am very approachable - come have a word!
Stick Taps for sharing
Looking forward to seeing Coach Mike and the U13 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]