Testimonials

"Paul Cannata is a top quality person and hockey coach.  He is well regarded across all levels of hockey.  His broad experience in the game of hockey as a player and then coach at the NCAA and prep levels has allowed him to develop a deep understanding of the game on and off the ice.  I have had the good fortune of working with Paul as a player agent, fellow coach and now from the perspective of the front office of an NHL team.  I have also watched my sons compete against Cannata coached Milton teams for many years."

Kent Hughes

General Manager

Montreal Canadiens

“I have been lucky to experience firsthand how Coach Cannata can guide a young player on and off the ice. Firstly, he was instrumental to me and my family as I looked at prep schools and ultimately chose Milton Academy.  Secondly, I was able to grow as a person and player within the Milton program. Thirdly, Coach Cannata guided me and my family through the college recruiting process, supporting my journey to Yale University — I was able to have an awesome experience in all regards. Yes, I have been quite lucky but at each step Coach Cannata’s fingerprints were all over the decisions.”

Rob O’Gara

Assistant Coach

Yale University

“Coach Cannata’s extensive coaching career and accomplishments speak for themselves.  He has always been one of the people in this country who understands all the variables of hockey players that influence their possible paths.  He is someone we trust and talk to frequently as coaches at Harvard.”

James Marcou

Assistant Coach

Harvard University

"I have known Coach Cannata for over 30 years and have worked and communicated with him on a variety of levels. He has been as accurate and honest of an evaluator of athletic talent and character as I deal with.  His experience in so many roles and with so many levels of the game allows him a complete perspective and makes him exceptional at identifying the appropriate level for a player.  Paul is unique in the fact that he also considers the player's personality and approach and factors that when working to place an athlete with a particular coach and program."

Jack Arena

Head Coach

Amherst College

“Paul Cannata is uniquely qualified to help families navigate the challenging landscape of advancement to the next level.  He has worked successfully at the NCAA, prep school, Mass. Hockey, USA Hockey and top club levels of hockey for 34 years.  Beyond this extensive experience Paul has always been genuinely interested in each player taking 'their route'.  He fully understands the idea of 'best fit.'  Paul has always been generous with his time, sincere in his efforts and most of all fully transparent and honest.  There would be few people who have the background, knowledge, network, history or passion for the development of the student-athlete.”

Jamie Rice

Head Coach

Babson College

“Our family had the good fortune of having Coach Cannata work with both of our sons on and off the ice for an extended period of time.  The two boys were different people, different hockey players and different types of students. Coach Cannata understood each boy and was instrumental in helping them find their way to rewarding collegiate playing experiences.  Although at times we did not fully understand his leanings, in hindsight it all makes perfect sense. There is no way we could have found our way to these wonderful paths and opportunities without his guidance.”

Parent

“Coach Cannata provided us invaluable help and guidance throughout the years.  He has really been an impactful part of our son’s life and has helped us with calm and rational guidance, mixed with timely humor.”

Parent