GIRLS 12U & BOYS BANTAM MINOR AAA
Chris Atkinson rejoined the Devils Youth organization as a coach in 2012 after playing much of his youth career with us. He has coached numerous Tier 1 teams to District finals and League championships, is a core member of the AAHA Player Development Program staff, and was at the helm of the New Jersey Devils Peewee Quebec team that advanced to the quarterfinals in 2018.
As one of the best hockey players to ever come out of the state of New Jersey, Chris’ distinguished playing career included a USA Hockey National Championship, a Silver Sticks International Championship, and a Quebec Peewee International Tournament Championship. As a member of the Atlantic District Player Development Program, Chris was on the only Atlantic District team to win the USA Hockey Junior Olympic Festival before USA Hockey went to a mixed-team format. Chris played at the Salisbury School before being selected for the USA Hockey National Team Development Program and playing on the US Under-18 team. He played D1 college hockey at the University of Vermont and played a season with the Danbury Whalers before coming home to New Jersey.
Chris is among the most popular coaches in the organization for good reason. He is one of the rare hockey professionals who is as good on the bench as he was on the ice, all while remaining humble and eager to learn and improve as a coach. He genuinely enjoys working with players of all ages and skill levels, and he connects easily with his athletes and families.