Coach's Letter

Thank you to all those who express interest in the MTK U10 Team for the 2023/24 season. I am grateful to have the opportunity to be the Head Coach of the Mississippi Thunder Kings U10 team for the upcoming 2023-24 season.

My name is Chris Hesse. I have been Head and Assistant Coach for the Carleton Place Minor Hockey Association for the past 5 years.

Hockey has been part of my life from a very young age. I have played high level minor hockey as well as for the Junior A Kanata Valley Lasers. I was awarded a hockey scholarship which brought me to SUNY Potsdam where I played division 3.

I consider building the character of a person just as important as developing the skills of the players. Through my words and actions, I will display the values of respect, resilience, teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship that will benefit these players long after their hockey playing days. My goal as an individual is to be a positive role model in the community by giving back to honor the many people have given to me over my career. I enjoy teaching, guiding and helping players individually and in a group setting with the intention to provide players with the fundamentals and skills to play the game the right way while having fun. My goal as a coach is to develop players in a fun and safe learning environment while teaching basic skills, fair play, new skills & teamwork while they create friendships.

A team environment based on competitive nature, strong work ethic, teamwork and respect for each other can be expected from players interested in trying out for the U10 team. We'll create an inclusive family environment where players and parents will be proud of the team and the MTK organization. I plan to lead the team in an open, honest and positive competitive spirit as head coach.

A high level of commitment from both players and parents is necessary to make the best possible progress in an atmosphere of competitive hockey. At the U10 level, practices and games are important parts of development at this age and are considered mandatory in this program.

Below is a list of tournaments we have been registered in.

Best of luck to all those during the try-out process, Coach Chris Tournaments:
Bradford Tournament – Oct.13 - Oct.15 Northumberland Silver Stick Regional - Nov.24 - Nov.26 Bell Capital Cup – within Dec. 27 – Jan. 1 (Ottawa) Capital Winter Classic – Jan. 19 – Jan. 21 (Ottawa)