Andrey Uryadov, the associate head coach for boys varsity hockey at Canterbury School, died last Friday, August 14, in a motorcycle crash in Albany, N.H., leaving both the Canterbury and South Kent School communities reeling. His death has sparked an outpouring of grief for a coach and community member whose impact, as school officials put it, truly “went well beyond the program itself.”
A Vision That Went Way Beyond the Ice
Uryadov had a “clear vision for what Canterbury Hockey could become,” but everyone who knew him knew it was more than just X’s and O’s. Head of School Caroline Blatti spoke volumes about his character, saying Andrey “embraced Canterbury.” He threw himself wholeheartedly into the community, and in return, the community came to know and love him. Blatti will especially remember how he cared for people, how his relationships were genuine, and his deep belief in the students. This wasn’t some distant coach; he brought such joy and generosity to the life of the school, making his loss just gut-wrenching.
Gone Far Too Soon, But His Spirit Lingers
The crash on Bear Notch Road in Albany, N.H., saw Uryadov’s motorcycle traveling “well over the posted speed limit” before it failed to negotiate a turn. The bike left the road, striking a tree, and Uryadov, only 40, was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. The crash remains under investigation. He had just joined Canterbury in 2025, not just as a coach, but also on the admissions team, where he welcomed prospective students with pure enthusiasm. His ability to connect with people was immediate and genuine, truly a rare talent. At the rink, he believed in his players, pushing them and lifting them up, always caring deeply about their growth on and off the ice. He was even preparing to lead the boys varsity hockey team as head coach for the upcoming 2026-27 season. Rob Morris, Canterbury’s director of athletics, promised to honor Uryadov’s legacy by carrying forward the commitment, ambition, and genuine care for young people he showed every single day.
Andrey Uryadov had built a career, also serving as head hockey coach, admissions associate, and director of hockey at South Kent School, his alma mater, graduating in 2004 and starting work there in 2007. Though his time at Canterbury was far too short, he found a true home and a special place in so many lives. His loss is profound, and our hearts remain with Andrey’s wife, sons, and family, and everyone who knew and loved him. The commitment, ambition, and genuine care he brought to his work? That’s what his teams will carry forward, not just for the upcoming season, but for years to come.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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