2009 Massachusetts Hockey Coach of the Year: Jim Matroni

Jim Matroni has been coaching in the GSL since 1995. His coaching career began with the mini-mite division when his son Tommy signed up to play hockey with the Bay West Association. His son Tom continued in hockey and Jim has coached every year since with Bay West and will continue coach at the Midget level this season with the Pioneer Valley Lightning organization. Highlights of his coaching career include four District Championships and GSL Falcons Cup Championships but what stands out most is his back-to-back District 6 Championships followed up with State Championships at the Midget level. He has instilled fair play in his team by demonstrating it in his coaching. It’s a common event for Jim to have his team over whether it is for a Spaghetti Dinner; watching hockey videos or just hanging out together.

Jim has served as Treasurer of the GSL for several years in addition to actively participating in various areas of the youth sports programs in Western Massachusetts. He has worked for the past 22 years as a school teacher, Assistant Principal and Athletic Director for Ellington High School in CT. He has a son. Tom and a daughter, Courtney; who are both active in sports. Jim can be counted on whether it is a volunteer for a GSL or Pioneer Valley Lightning event or for a member on a committee.

There is no one more deserving of this prestigious award of Massachusetts 2009 Coach of the year. Congratulations to Jim from the GSL.