TESTIMONIALS

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COACHES

"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 of the Montreal Canadiens

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"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 at Amherst College

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“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 at Babson College

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“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 at Yale University

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“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 at Harvard University

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PLAYERS

"My family and I cannot say enough good things about our time playing for Coach Cannata.  He was a big help in my development on and off the ice.  I always enjoyed my time around Coach Cannata and have great respect for what he has done for Milton Academy, and all of Massachusetts and USA Hockey."

Matt Beniers, Current forward and Assistant Captain, Seattle Kraken, #2 overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft

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“I first met Coach Cannata at a young age and had the privilege of training with him for many years. His influence extended far beyond the rink—he instilled in me the values of hard work, discipline, and believing in the process. More than just a coach, he was a mentor whose guidance and support shaped me both as an athlete and a person. I’ll always be deeply grateful for the lasting impact he’s had on my life.”

Will Smith, Current forward, San Jose Sharks, #4 overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft

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“I am forever indebted to Coach Cannata for his wisdom and guidance throughout my hockey career. My time under Coach Cannata at Milton Academy was truly transformative for my development on and off the ice. I would not be where and who I am today without Coach Cannata’s support.”

David Chen, Yale University, Captain 2025-26

PARENTS

“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.”

“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.”