LEBANON — The Lebanon High boys hockey team, which co-ops with Stevens and Mascoma, has found its new head coach.
The Raiders’ new leader behind the bench is Nate Dube, 40, of Grantham, who brings more than a decade of coaching experience at levels ranging from mites to U18. His résumé includes time with the Upper Valley Hockey Association Storm, the Hanover Wild, and the Seacoast Spartans.
Dube said his passion for coaching and familiarity with the program motivated him to apply for the position.
“I’ve been around and watching this team as a parent for the last four years, and I feel a strong connection with the boys, especially since I’ve had the opportunity to coach the majority of them on different teams through the years,” Dube said in an email.
That familiarity was one of several qualities Lebanon Director of Athletics and Co-Curricular Activities Ben Davis sought in the next head coach, along with leadership and local coaching experience.
“I am extremely excited to bring Nate on board as our next head coach,” Davis said in an email. “From the start, he has demonstrated that he will be an excellent leader and take great care of our team in developing all of our student-athletes. We want to play as a cohesive, hard-working unit that represents Raider hockey in a way our community can be proud of.”
Dube replaces former coach Dean Cashman, who stepped down in April after two seasons behind the Raiders’ bench.
Dube’s hiring also gives him a chance to coach one of his sons, Carter, who is entering his sophomore season. His older son, Nathan Jr., graduated in June and now attends Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Fla., where he continues to play hockey.
As the season approaches, Dube said he is eager to get the team on the ice and build on last year’s performance. The Raiders went 6-11-1 before being eliminated by Winnacunnet in the first round of the NHIAA Division II playoffs.
“I’m going to try to emphasize hard work, sportsmanship, and playing as a team,” Dube said. “I feel these qualities in an athlete lead to success on and off the ice.”
Preseason begins Nov. 19, and Lebanon opens the regular season Dec. 15 at home against Alvirne.
