THE PULSE | WINTER 2024 ISSUE
NEW HARVEY HOCKEY COACH COLTON ORR Harvey’s hockey program enters an exciting new chapter under the leadership of former National Hockey League (NHL) player Colton Orr. Known for his toughness and dedication during his professional career, Orr brings a wealth of experience and a fresh vision to the team. With a long career in the NHL and extensive coaching experience, he is eager to inspire young players at Harvey and rebuild the program for future success. Coach Orr’s journey to hockey stardom wasn’t conventional. Growing up in Winnipeg, Manitoba, he was initially more interested in soccer and baseball. Hockey didn’t come into his life until he was 11, when he decided to follow in his brother’s footsteps and try the sport. “I wasn’t into hockey at first,” Orr shared. “But once I started playing, I loved it. I always loved the aspect of team building and standing up for my teammates, which matched perfectly with hockey.”
By Brandon Levine
When Orr’s playing career came to an end, he knew he wanted to give back to the sport that had given him so much. “I was privileged to play a long NHL career and had amazing coaches growing up who gave me opportunities and always worked with me to get better,” he said. Orr transitioned into coaching and player development, working as a scout for the Toronto Maple Leafs and in player development for the Arizona Coyotes. He also coached in the Women’s Hockey League, focusing on helping players refine their skills and grow their game.
That passion for the game carried Coach Orr all the way to the NHL, where he played 477 games over a 12-year career. Known for his grit and physicality, Coach Orr became one of the league’s most respected enforcers. He credits his success to his relentless work ethic, which he emphasizes as a coach today. “During my Image from Harvey website. career, I was never the best, but I know I Coach Orr skating on rink. worked the hardest,” he told The Pulse. One of his favorite quotations, which he often shares The opportunity to coach at Harvey was a with his players, is: “Hard work beats talent perfect fit for Orr. He and his family live in when talent isn’t working hard.”
the Brewster area and have always appreciated Harvey’s strong sense of Orr’s NHL career is full of memorable community. “I’ve done a lot of work with the moments, but one stands out above the rest. Junior Rangers and always admired the rink “My most memorable moment was my 300th and campus at Harvey,” he explained. game.” He recalled, “I was playing for the “When the coaching job became available, it Toronto Maple Leafs against the New Jersey Devils, and my entire family was there. I get was an amazing opportunity to combine my chills just talking about it.” Coach Orr love for the sport with Harvey’s love for the continued, “To make it even more special, I community. It’s been great to get back into scored a goal on Hall of Fame goalie Martin coaching and help build up the hockey Brodeur. That was something I’ll never forget.” program.”
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Coach Orr is focused on instilling important values in his players, with work ethic at the top of the list. He also emphasizes the importance of preparation, drawing from his own career experience. Coach Orr stated, “I wasn’t superstitious, but I had a very detailed routine,” he said. “One of my routines was always tying my right skate first.” Orr encourages his players to develop their own pregame rituals to help them stay focused and mentally prepared. This season, Coach Orr’s primary goal for Harvey Hockey is to rebuild the program and foster team chemistry. After a year without a hockey team, he’s excited to see his players back on the ice and competing again. “This year is about building the team for now and the future,” he said. “It’s exciting to get back into hockey and see how far we can grow together.” Off the ice, Coach Orr mentioned that he enjoys spending time with his family and pursuing hobbies like golf. He finds golf to be a relaxing way to enjoy nature and challenge himself. He and his wife, a Westchester native, have three children. Their 12-year-old daughter loves horseback riding, while their two young sons are passionate about hockey. Coach Orr cherishes the moments he spends on the ice with his children, sharing his love for the game with them. “Who knows, maybe my kids will come to Harvey one day,” he said with a smile. Coach Orr’s journey from the NHL to Harvey is a testament to his dedication to the game and his commitment to helping young players grow both on and off the ice. The Pulse thanks Coach Orr for sharing his story and wishes him and the Harvey Hockey team a successful and rewarding season ahead.
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