Boys’ Varsity Hockey Announces Leadership Change

Canterbury School will enter the next chapter of its Boys’ Varsity Hockey program with a new leadership structure that builds on long-standing strength while positioning the team for continued growth.

Padraic “Paddy” McCarthy ’94, P ’29 has decided to move into an Assistant Coach role beginning in the 2026-27 season. A Canterbury alumnus and a central figure in the program since returning to campus in 1999, Coach McCarthy has played a defining role in shaping Saints hockey over the past two decades.

During his time with the program, Canterbury has earned multiple New England tournament appearances, highlighted by the 2024 NEPSAC Small School Championship. The title held particular meaning, coming 30 years after McCarthy was part of Canterbury’s championship team as a student. Across the years, his teams have been defined not only by their competitiveness but by their discipline, resilience, and strong sense of purpose.

Equally important is the culture he has cultivated. Canterbury hockey has long emphasized accountability, pride, and team-first values, an approach that challenges players to grow as individuals while contributing to something larger than themselves. In his new role, Coach McCarthy will continue to support and mentor players while remaining closely connected to the program he has helped build.

Stepping into the Head Coach role is Andrey Uryadov, who has served as Associate Head Coach and brings both high-level playing experience and a strong track record of player development. A former NCAA Division I player at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Coach Uryadov earned four ECAC Hockey All-Academic honors during his collegiate career. He later spent a decade at South Kent School in Head Coach and Director of Hockey roles, where he guided players to collegiate opportunities and introduced new approaches to training and game analysis.

Coach Uryadov’s leadership reflects a clear focus on preparation, skill development, and helping players reach their potential. At Canterbury, he has already contributed to the program’s growth and brings a thoughtful, forward-looking approach to his new role. His work in admission and residential life also gives him a strong understanding of the student experience beyond the rink.

Looking ahead, the program will also expand its fall development opportunities. Beginning next year, Canterbury will participate in the Cutting Edge Management (CEM) Fall Development League, which brings together prep school players for structured training and competitive weekend play during the fall season. The league offers players consistent development, exposure to college coaches, and the chance to build chemistry as a team in advance of the winter season.

News of the transition was shared directly with the team in a meeting with both coaches, reflecting a deliberate and student-centered approach. The leadership change maintains continuity within the program while creating new opportunities for growth.

Canterbury is deeply appreciative of Coach McCarthy’s lasting contributions and looks forward to the continued strength of the program under Coach Uryadov’s leadership.