It is my pleasure to announce that Matt Thompson is starting his role as the Anchorage Hockey Association Executive Director this week.  

The AHA Board of Directors have been discussing the need for an Executive Director for several years. The Board is pleased that it can stand unanimously behind the choice of Matt Thompson and believes he is an exceptional person for this position. AHA's members are already acquainted with at least one of AHA's Program Directors and will be pleased to hear that all of the Program Directors are eager to have the opportunity to work with Matt. While our Program Directors are doing excellent work, AHA has been in need of a "head coach" on staff who can lead the Association at the 1000ft level and make Programming decisions across the entire Association. While the need existed, the challenge has been finding the right person and we are excited that Matt Thompson is that person.

For the past 7 years, Matt has coached at the High School, Tier 2, Tier 1, and Junior A levels. He already has the experience to understand the nuts and bolts of managing hockey teams and working with players and their families. The AHA Board is especially impressed by Matt's ability to build positive working relationships across the hockey community. Another standout qualification has been Matt's work as the Alaska State Hockey Association VP Of Player Development as well as Associate Director of Team Alaska. Matt possesses a passion for developing youth hockey and he has made amazing strides in his work with Team Alaska. I have witnessed Matt's dedication to the players he serves and he embodies AHA's attitude that "it's about the kids". I can recall one Alaska State Hockey Association Board meeting when Matt particularly impressed me by reminding other Association Representatives that evaluations are approaching and coaches should be reminded to look at how players on the ice perform and support the play when they don't have possession of the puck. I think this is a great metaphor for how Matt will contribute to the Anchorage Hockey Association. It represents his mindset of looking at the entire picture and not just watching the puck.

Many of you already know Matt since he grew up playing hockey in Alaska wearing Blue and Gold. So, you know that we are fortunate to have his leadership and skills working for AHA. If you don't know him yet, I am excited for you to meet him this season. The new season starts in just a month. This is going to be a great year!!!

Sincerely,

Jeannie Carey

Anchorage Hockey Association President