Canadian-born hockey pro Kirk MacDonald first came to the area to play with the Reading Royals in 2008. He then played in the American and National Hockey Leagues — with the Providence Bruins and Boston Bruins. He returned to the Royals during the 2012-13 season and began as assistant coach in 2014. In May, MacDonald was named Royals’ head coach and director of hockey operations. A newlywed, he and his wife Caroline Morgan are enjoying everything Berks offers — especially West Reading eateries and area hiking trails — when not relaxing together in their Exeter Township home.
Q: You’ve been living on the U.S. east coast for years, but you’re from the Canadian west coast, so I’m guessing you played hockey as a kid?
I was born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, but grew up in Victoria playing hockey and everything else. I played baseball, soccer and lacrosse as well as hockey until I was about 15. In high school I realized I liked hockey more.
Q: Is hockey how you came to the States?
Yes, I played in college in upstate New York, at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy. I then went on to play in New England with the Providence and Boston Bruins.
Q: And then the Royals?
I played with the team for parts of the 2008-09 and 2012-13 seasons. I went back to my alma mater to coach after that and then came back to the Royals as assistant coach in 2014.
Q: Do you miss playing?
I was ready to stop playing but wanted to stay active in the game. I guess I don’t miss playing because I still get to come to the rink every day, and I enjoy coaching – it’s less physically challenging but more mentally demanding.
Q: Is it a different side of the game?
Definitely. There’s a lot to consider and things to do that you don’t realize when your job is to show up and play or practice. Coaching requires wearing a lot of different hats so the players can focus on the game. I’m proud to be with the team; they’re a great group of people and great players – the Royals haven’t missed a playoff since 2009. I’m really excited about this season; we’ve brought on Patrick Wellar as assistant coach and have terrific players. I’m looking forward to it.
Q: You officially moved to Berks in 2014?
Yes, we’re in Exeter Township, my wife and I.
Q: What are some of your favorite Berks discoveries or hangouts?
We love the food, from visiting farmers markets for amazing fresh produce and baked goods to all the restaurants and breweries, especially in West Reading. After living on the road as a player, I like local places rather than big chain restaurants, and there are so many in that few blocks. The hiking trails are also really nice, like the Neversink Loop on Mount Penn – there are beautiful views from it, over the Schuylkill River. We like to head out and enjoy nature when there’s time.
Q: I guess that’s at a premium for you during hockey season.
Yes, I don’t get out much during the months we’re playing, so my life revolves around the team, but it’s nice that our schedule allows me to come back here even if we’re playing away games. I like being home.
