Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia’s Tyler Hinam has always played like a Bruin.
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that the skilled gritty two-way forward has been signed by the Boston Bruins ECHL affiliate the Maine Mariners yesterday.
“I’m really excited, it’s been a long road through all this COVID stuff so I’m just really excited to be playing hockey again,” said Hinam.
Hinam had a stellar QMJHL career which featured President Cup and Memorial Cup victories with the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies in 2019.
Hinam like so many other AUS players haven’t seen much game action over the past two seasons due to the pandemic.
Hinam is a gamer, a throwback player that plays the game exceptionally well in all three zones.
“I think I value my 200 foot, hard playing style the most,” said Hinam when asked what aspect of his game he’s most proud of.
Hinam was acquired by the Cape Breton Eagles during the 2020 QMJHL Trade Period and was poised to lead them on what could have been a long playoff run. Sadly that never happened as the hockey world shut down due to the start of the pandemic.
Hinam had already committed to Darren Burns at Acadia University.
Ironically, Burns was hired by the Bruins organization last season to scout the Maritime region and players playing in the QMJHL.
“Tyler is an extremely driven individual,” said Burns proudly.
“He will give you 100% on the ice ,and in the gym.”
Even though Hinam only suited up for three games with the Axemen, his time with the program and at school has been extremely memorable.
“From day one to now Darren was nothing but great,especially last year.”
“Acadia was able to give us lots of ice and gym time that a lot of programs across the country weren’t able to give.”
Hinam has only appeared in 3 games for the Axemen this season due to an upper body injury, but is more than ready to make an impact at the pro level.
“This year was different for me personally, but even while I was injured I was still given the resources I needed to continue to get better.”
“I loved every second I spent at Acadia,” said Hinam who is a straight “A”’s business student.
Burns and the Axemen organization continue to grow and develop players. It’s always difficult to see them go.
“At the end of the day we want what’s best for every kid and for our program,” said Burns.
“When we recruit players to Acadia, we can look them straight in the eye and promise them they will be going to an incredible university , playing in a community where the people love coming to the games and quite frankly offer them a life altering experience.”
“At this point and time due to this pandemic , it is hard for us to fulfill this promise. We aren’t playing hockey and these guys want to be hockey players while pursuing their education. The reality of it is everything we want to provide for a player we aren’t able to do at this time , it’s just not possible and I am counting the days until we can do this and get this great experience back for our players.”
“To watch guys not experience what our school,” community and hockey is all about is tough,” added Burns.
“It’s my job as the coach to work hard for everyone of these kids to help them through this . They are all at different stages in their educations and their lives. Every player as a person needs us in their corner right now.”
Tyler Hinam’s lifelong dream to play pro hockey has come true. The impact that his family and friends have had throughout his career is truly remarkable.
“My parents have been awesome.”
“They are always so supportive and never really tried to coach me which was always nice.”
“They always stressed working hard and I think that translates to my game.”
“I just can’t thank my parents enough for all the opportunities they gave me and all the support they’ve showed me,” said a reflective Hinam.
Hinam is type of player that can excel in any role in any lineup. His ability to create time and space and make plays in high traffic areas makes him very dangerous. His character, relentless puck pursuit grit and skill set will definitely translate well to the pro game.
Tyler Hinam plays like a Bruin, the Mariners faithful will soon find out.
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