KYLE MACDONALD - TASA TECHNICAL DIRECTOR

Meet Kyle MacDonald, our dedicated Technical Director at TASA Minor Hockey Association. Kyle's extensive hockey journey, from playing competitively in his youth to a successful university career, has fueled his passion for the sport. He excels not only as a player but also as a coach, with a degree in Sports Management and Hockey Canada NCCP-Certified Hockey Skills Coach credentials.

Kyle's roles as Technical Director include:

Player Development: Kyle designs and implements training programs to enhance our young athletes' skills and abilities.

Coaching Support: He guides and supports our coaches, ensuring they have access to the latest training methods and resources.

Curriculum Development: Kyle designs player development programs aligned with industry best practices.

Talent Identification: He assists in identifying and nurturing talent within our association.

However, it's important to note that Kyle does not handle administrative matters, registration, try-out/evaluation scoring, disciplinary actions, scheduling, or financial concerns. These should be directed to the appropriate administrative channels. Kyle also does not set organizational policies or governance matters.

In summary, Kyle is a dedicated Technical Director who plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of our young athletes. Understanding his specific responsibilities and boundaries is crucial for efficient communication and effective operation within our minor hockey association. We appreciate his dedication and look forward to continued success under his guidance.

Before contacting Kyle directly for above mentioned items, please first reach out to the appropriate TASA Executive Member below – or – reach out to your team coach or manager.

Competitive VP - Kevin Baillie - [email protected]

Recreational VP - Matthew Slaunwhite - [email protected]

Finance VP - Sonya Rogers - [email protected]

U-9 VP - Karen Paplinskie - [email protected]

U-7 VP – Karen Carey - [email protected]

Risk Management VP – Cory Withrow – [email protected]

Executive VP – Sheldon McKinnon – [email protected]

President – Mary-Lou Paetznick – [email protected]

BEN MEISNER – TASA GOALIE COORDINATOR

Introducing Ben Meisner, our esteemed Goalie Coordinator at TASA Minor Hockey! Originating from New Germany, Nova Scotia, Ben embarked on a transformative minor hockey journey that laid the groundwork for his remarkable career. His deep-rooted passion for the game propelled him to excellence in Halifax, where he shone brightly with the U18AAA Cole Harbour Major Midgets.

Following his minor hockey, Ben refined his game at Ridley College, subsequently venturing into the NCAA Division 1, NHL, AHL, ECHL, and eventually the DEL in Europe. Armed with a wealth of experience garnered from playing professionally in respected leagues across the globe, Ben brings a broad and insightful perspective to TASA. While playing for EHC Freiburg and EC Bad Tölz in Germany, Ben also served as the youth and junior goaltending development coach for the team’s minor hockey programs.

In his capacity as Goalie Coordinator, Ben plays a pivotal role in nurturing the growth and development of all our goalies, regardless of their competitive level. His illustrious resume includes noteworthy stints in the NCAA Division 1, AHL, ECHL, DEL, DEL2 and an appearance in an NHL exhibition game with the San Jose Sharks versus the Vancouver Canucks. Additionally, Ben, a German Citizen, was an affiliate member of Team Germany for the 2017 World Championships in Köln, Germany.

Beyond the rink, Ben is a keen advocate for mental health, highlighting the importance of seeking help and how it saves lives. Transparent about his own mental health challenges throughout his hockey career, Ben understands the delicate balance needed to manage pressure and expectation while keeping the game enjoyable. Today, he stands as a prominent ambassador for the performance side of sports, demonstrating a unique ability to instill values of accountability and hard work in our aspiring goalies and players while ensuring the game remains a source of fun.

Join us in celebrating Ben's unwavering commitment to excellence, his extensive global hockey experiences, and his tireless dedication to fostering skill development and a positive, enjoyable atmosphere within TASA Minor Hockey.