Tilton School is proud to announce that Connor Hardowa has been named the next Head Coach of the Boys Varsity A Ice Hockey program.

Hardowa’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Tilton Hockey while also reflecting the continuity, commitment, and ambition that have long defined the program. Over the past four years, he has become an integral member of the Tilton community, serving as Assistant Coach of Boys Varsity A Ice Hockey, former Head Coach of Boys Varsity B Ice Hockey, Associate Director of Admissions and Financial Aid, Advisor, and Co-Dorm Head of East Knowles.

In each of these roles, Hardowa has distinguished himself as a trusted mentor, committed educator, and impactful leader. His elevation to head coach reflects both the confidence Tilton has in his leadership and the strong foundation he has already helped build within the program. Prior to joining Tilton, Hardowa completed a successful nine-year professional playing career. His experience included time in both the AHL and ECHL, including with the Manchester Monarchs, as well as professional seasons in Finland, Denmark, and France. His career highlights include a Mestis Championship in Finland, a Ligue Magnus Championship in France, and a French Cup title.

A native of Edmonton, Alberta, Hardowa also brings an exceptional collegiate background to the role. At the University of New Hampshire, he was a member of the Division I men’s ice hockey team and served as team captain. During his four years with the Wildcats, UNH advanced to three NCAA Tournament appearances and captured the 2010 Hockey East regular season championship. He graduated in 2013 with bachelor’s degrees in both finance and accounting.

As a former student-athlete and experienced coach, Hardowa believes deeply in the development of hockey players within a nurturing, disciplined, and mission-aligned school environment. He understands the distinctive demands and opportunities of New England prep hockey and is committed to helping Tilton students grow not only as athletes, but also as teammates, leaders, and citizens. He lives on campus with his wife and family and has already made a lasting impact on the life of the school.

“Connor brings a rare combination of competitive experience, relational leadership, and deep commitment to young people,” said Derek Krein, Head of School. “He knows Tilton, he knows what makes this place special, and he understands how powerful school-based athletics can be in shaping a student’s growth. We are thrilled to place the future of our hockey program in his hands.”

Mr. Hardowa succeeds Coach Brooks McQuade, who has accepted the position of head coach of the Southern New Hampshire University men’s ice hockey program.

Tilton extends its deep gratitude to Coach McQuade for his extraordinary service to the school and the hockey program. A 2004 graduate of Tilton and a two-sport captain in hockey and baseball, McQuade has dedicated 17 years to the school, including 11 seasons as head coach of Boys Varsity A Ice Hockey.

Under his leadership, Tilton achieved sustained competitive success, including six New England Prep School and Lakes Region playoff appearances over the past eight seasons, the 2019 New England Championship, the 2020 Lakes Region Championship, and Holiday Tournament titles in 2022 and 2024. In recognition of his accomplishments, McQuade was named both the 2019 New England Hockey Journal Coach of the Year and the 2019 Lakes Region Coach of the Year. Yet McQuade’s legacy reaches well beyond banners and championships. His leadership, loyalty, and deep care for students helped shape generations of Tilton players and strengthened the character of the program in enduring ways. As an alumnus, coach, and mentor, he has represented Tilton with distinction and pride.

“Brooks McQuade has given Tilton School an extraordinary gift through his years of leadership, service, and devotion to this community,” Krein said. “He has led this program with heart, humility, and competitive excellence, and we are profoundly grateful for all he has done for our students and for Tilton Hockey. We are excited for him as he takes this next step and knows he will always remain an important part of Tilton’s story.”

Connor Hardowa’s appointment positions Tilton Hockey for a future that is both grounded and ambitious. His experience, values, and understanding of the school make him exceptionally well suited for this role, and Tilton looks ahead with great confidence and enthusiasm to all that is to come under his leadership.

Please join us in thanking Coach McQuade for his remarkable service to Tilton School and in congratulating Coach Hardowa on his appointment.