Head coach of the Macon Mayhem, a Southern Professional Hockey League team, Nick Niedert shares his struggles of being the only coach for the Mayhem. However, the daily sacrifices Niedert makes for the team makes up for his love of the game and the accomplishments he has awarded the team and the players with.

“You’re teaching the game, but you’re teaching life lessons as well. That’s what I enjoy doing most is helping, you know, the players beyond the game of hockey,” Niedert said.

Niedert is also proud of the team he has built at the Mayhem. The players all have great personalities and are eager and willing to learn. One player in particular, co-captain David Nippard, is grateful for Niedert.

Niedert helped him play in the East Coast Hockey League. Nippard said that is one of his best accomplishments throughout his athletic career, especially coming from a small town in Newfoundland, Canada.

“And, of course, you know, being an alternate captain here, it’s actually a true honor to do so. And you know, represent the Mayhem and help out Coach Niedert. It’s definitely an honor,” Nippard said.

However, since Niedert is the only coach for the team there are struggles that come with that title.

“That’s the biggest challenge is there’s no personal time. You don’t really fear on missing out of anything because you love what you’re doing,” Niedert said.

Even when he is not at the rink, he is still thinking about last night’s game, watching practice videos or taking notes on something the team can do to improve on.

Despite the challenges, Niedert is very grateful for his position at the Mayhem and loves helping out the players.

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