I am writing to formally introduce myself as the new director of hockey operations for the Bucks hockey program.

My name is Chris Erickson. I am very excited to contribute my experience to the program’s success and build it to be a promising program in the state of Arizona. I have been honored to coach and train hockey players for over 40 years, including players in one of the strongest programs in Minnesota, where I was born and raised before moving to Arizona six years ago. I am privileged to have had the opportunity to watch some of my players continue to other levels including college and the NHL.

Our philosophy is that ice time is earned, not necessarily by skill, but by work ethic, attitude, as well as attendance. Hockey is a game where life lessons can be learned by players being held accountable. We look forward to working with the players on all aspects of the game and I will be available for any questions that arise. Our focus will be skill development (over 40 years of coaching/training} as well as hockey IQ and being creative.

I would also like to introduce my son Tyler Erickson as the assistant director and coach in the Bucks hockey program. Tyler played and coached in Minnesota at the high school level and went on to play Minnesota junior hockey as well. With outstanding skill and great coaching ability, Tyler will add the experience of working with players of all ages. We are already seeing the results of the excitement Tyler is bringing to the program.

Both Tyler and I have continued to work with players over the last 20 years in Arizona and Minnesota to get them to the next level and play this great game and we look forward to working with players that are interested in playing the game longer.

To aid in the success of the Bucks hockey program, Brenna Erickson (Tyler’s wife) will oversee the registration, billing, apparel, and all social media. If you have seen the website and social media, she is already bringing a lot of energy to the Bucks program.

We are looking to hit the ground running. This upcoming season will be a fantastic opportunity to work with all families and players. Our focus is to get all non-parent coaches and we are off to a great start. We already have most levels coached by very qualified non-parent coaches.

Tryouts will be May 16-22.

Checking/body contact clinic will be held Saturday, May 11.

We have our summer skills camp also, which is great way to continue to work on skills and get to know coaches in the program.

Again, we are all very excited to be a part of the Bucks program and look forward to seeing you all at the rink!

Any questions, please feel free to reach out.

For program information, please visit adhlhockey.com.

Have a great day!

Chris Erickson
buckshockeydirector@hotmail.com

(April 25, 2024)