Get to Know Matt Doherty – Our New Lead in Miramichi

We recently announced Matt Doherty as our new lead in Miramichi, and now we’d like to give you the chance to get to know the coach behind the whistle.

Matt brings a wealth of experience from all levels of the game, from beginners to AAA, and has previously coached within both the Riversharks AAA program and Champions Hockey. His technical knowledge, player-first approach, and dedication to development make him a key asset to our athletes.

Originally from the Chaleur region, Matt’s hockey journey began early and took him through some of the game’s most competitive levels. A standout defenceman, he earned U15 AAA Defenseman of the Year and represented Atlantic Canada at the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge. He was drafted 81st overall by the Acadie-Bathurst Titan, where he played three seasons and helped the team reach two QMJHL finals.

Matt went on to star with the Miramichi Timberwolves, earning league All-Star honors before continuing his career at the University of New Brunswick, where he played alongside Champions Hockey co-owner Stacy Smallman. His playing career came full circle when he returned to Miramichi to lead the Phantoms as captain, guiding them to a league championship.

Now, as a coach, Matt is focused on giving back to the game that shaped him. He places strong emphasis on character, teamwork, and accountability, building a development environment centered on hard work, respect, and continual growth both on and off the ice.

We’re proud to have Matt leading the charge in Miramichi, and even prouder to have him helping develop the next generation of Champions athletes.