We sat down with Nick Dupuis and asked him about the upcoming season.
1. Can you tell us about your background in hockey, both as a player and a coach?
I grew up in Penetanguishene and played my entire hockey career for the Penetang Flames organization. During my minor hockey days I was one of the leaders of my team and took on the alternate captain role for many years playing on the rep teams. I was fortunate enough to get to play many games including playoff games at a higher level as an affiliate with the older rep group. I wasn’t a big player but I played as if I was! At the U15 (formerly bantam) level I was affiliated with the Pentang Jr. C Kings playing on the starting line for many of those games and being in awe of the big boys I was playing with and against and the famous “Zoo Crew” cheering section. Following my minor hockey career I transitioned into a full-time player for the Penetang Kings where I was the alternate captain for a number of years. I played a total of 4 full seasons with that team and am proud to call myself an alumni of both organizations. These days when not coaching I’m still playing hockey 2-3 times a week and I continue to want to get better and improve my skills each time I’m on the ice.
As for coaching, I began my coaching career volunteering for the Penetanguishene Secondary School cross-country running team. Later I joined the Midland Minor Hockey system and began coaching at the U7 level. I was the head coach for the Midland Centennial U9 MD team and assistant coach for the U11 rep B team.
2. What is your overall coaching philosophy, and what values are most important to you as a coach?
My coaching philosophy can be best described as fostering a growth mindset to continue to be your best self through good character and hard work. I will be instilling in my team to be better each and every time they’re on the ice and to constantly challenge themselves. Mistakes are acceptable but it’s what you do after that mistake that shows your true character. I will also demand that my players give maximum effort and be respectful and show true sportsmanship on and off the ice.
3. What style of hockey do you coach, and what can players expect in terms of systems and game strategy?
My focus for the team will be to strengthen our defensive play on both sides of the ice and teach the importance of awareness and being a supportive teammate. I believe these tactics will be the key to a successful season and foster a winning mindset and culture. Players can expect a ‘fair but firm’ approach from me. Consistent structure with clear boundaries/expectations offers the most optimal environment for players and coaching staff to be successful. The environment surrounding my team will be positive and encouraging with a focus on team dynamics, constant goal setting and accountability.
4. What are you most looking forward to in the upcoming season?
The excitement of being part of this new organization and the support I’m already seeing from the board members and Islanders staff.
5. Why should players want to be part of the Islanders next season? What makes this team and program special?
The amazing support from the organization and the professionalism are going to be a major factor in the success of the Islanders organization. There are high expectations which will lead to quality teams and players with a huge emphasis on player development, essentially leading to a desire to want to be an Islander.
6. Is there anything else you’d like players and families to know about you or the upcoming season?
I want players and families to know that I don’t have an ego and I don’t have all the answers. For this reason I am going to be relying on my coaching staff to strengthen my weaknesses and vice versa. I’m also approachable and believe firmly in open communication and willing to listen to any comments or concerns from parents, players and staff. I am fully committed to my team therefore I expect the same in return. Excited to get started and I’m looking forward to the season ahead!