The Sackville Minor Hockey community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of Matthew Lent, a beloved U11 coach whose passion for the game and unwavering dedication to young athletes left a lasting legacy both on and off the ice.
Matthew is lovingly remembered by his wife, Terri-Lynn, and their two children, Emmerson, 11, a proud member of the Sackville Flyers, and Georgia, 8. As his family navigates this profound loss, they are surrounded by an outpouring of love and support from friends, teammates, and the wider community.
To the players and families who knew him, Coach Matt was much more than a hockey coach. He was a mentor, encourager, and role model who believed in every child who wore a Flyers jersey. His positive attitude, patience, and genuine care helped each player develop confidence, resilience, and a love for the sport, regardless of their experience or ability.
Those who coached alongside him describe Matthew as someone who gave wholeheartedly of his time and energy. He celebrated every accomplishment, offered encouragement through every challenge, and created an environment where every young athlete felt welcomed, respected, and valued. His impact reached far beyond hockey, helping shape the character of the children fortunate enough to learn from him.
The Sackville Flyers have paid tribute to Matthew as someone whose compassion and commitment embodied the true spirit of community hockey. While his place behind the bench can never be replaced, his influence will continue to inspire future generations of players who carry forward the lessons he taught through kindness, teamwork, and perseverance.
As tributes continue to pour in, family members, friends, former players, and fellow coaches are sharing cherished memories of Matthew’s generosity, warmth, and infectious enthusiasm. A GoFundMe has also been established to help support Terri-Lynn, Emmerson, and Georgia as they move through the difficult days ahead, reflecting the deep appreciation and love the community has for the Lent family.
The thoughts and heartfelt condolences of the entire hockey community remain with Matthew’s family and loved ones.