Coaches Letter

​ Dear Supporters of Taunton Tigers Hockey,
​
                Welcome to another season of Taunton High School Hockey!  We enter the 2017-18 season with optimism and excitement as the Tigers look to see continued improvement on and off of the ice.  This season marks the 7th season the coaches have had the reigns of the program.  In those six previous seasons, the model for developing players both on and off of the ice has been laid and fully implemented.  The success has been noted as the Tigers achieved historic back-to-back seasons with a combined 25 wins and two state tournament appearances, and a victory over the then defending State Champion Franklin Panthers. Taunton High School has turned back into a place where young Taunton players aspire to play, a feat that has not been enjoyed since the days of Phil Dean and Steve Matthews. The program looks to continue to build on that success and move towards competing with high end programs in the Hockomock League and at the State level.  Three Consecutive tournament appearances has only been achieved once in the history of Taunton Hockey, and the young Tiger squad will look to accomplish that feat.

                This year’s team motto is “Enjoy the Journey”!  The coaching staff has recognized that today’s world is often too concerned with outcomes and long-term goals, that we often forget the present, the moment, and the experiences that make our lives so great.  Players and parents tend to forget the joy that going to the rink, experiencing comradery, and having fun within the community brings one another.  It is our goal, as a coaching staff, to bring that back; to embrace the good, the bad, the ups, the downs, the frustrations, the euphoria, and everything in between that make playing hockey and being a part of team brings.  As players get older, that fun can diminish, but not this year!

                In accompaniment of the coaching staff’s motto for the upcoming season, it will fall on the shoulders of coaches, players, and the Face-Off Club to spread the joy and that message to youth players from Taunton.  Taunton High School Hockey will be offering Free clinics to youth players from Taunton.  This will give young players a developmental opportunity within the city, and give current players a chance to participate in meaningful service of the community. This is an endeavor that we are truly excited about!  

                As a coach, teacher, and citizen, I am proud to be from Taunton and see the youth of this city get opportunities to grow as students, athletes, citizens, friends, sons, and daughters as their life experiences continue.  That message will always be spread, and my pride for this community will always be high.

                As always, on behalf of the Taunton High School Hockey Program, and this year’s coaching staff, I would like to thank the face-off club, the parents, the families, the Alumni, and the local community of Taunton for its support of young hockey players!  I look to another great and productive season.

Sincerely,
Kris Metea
Head Coach
Taunton High School