Craig Nooyen
Coach · Instructor · Athlete Development
Elite playing background. Academic foundation. Proven leadership.
Craig Nooyen brings decades of experience in high-level hockey environments into every session he leads. His background spans elite junior hockey, NCAA Division I competition, and long-term coaching roles focused on building confident, accountable athletes.
His approach is structured, intentional, and rooted in preparation — helping players understand not just what to do, but how and why it translates to performance.
Playing and coaching background
- Five seasons in the CCHL with the Cumberland Grads, including four All-Star selections and two years as team captain
- NCAA Division I scholarship athlete at Canisius University in Buffalo, New York
- Bachelor of Arts in Sport Psychology and MBA, supporting performance and leadership development
- Ten years as Head Instructor with the Canadian Hockey Academy
- 6+ years of coaching experience with CMHA and Gloucester-Cumberland Girls Hockey
Craig’s coaching philosophy is simple: develop skill, build confidence, and raise standards.
He creates a positive but demanding environment where athletes are taught to compete, communicate, and take ownership of their development.
A major focus of every session is helping players own the controllables — attitude, effort, and preparation — and understand their role as teammates and leaders.
Craig leads by example. His sessions emphasize accountability, preparation, and trust — the same qualities that define strong teams and successful athletes.
Outside of hockey, Craig works alongside his wife, Stephanie, as a real estate agent with Empire Real Estate Group, applying the same leadership mindset beyond the rink.
