Introducing Mitch Major, a proud Skaneateles native whose life is built around family, faith, and a deep passion for teaching and hockey. Born and raised in Skaneateles, Mitch is the youngest of 8 children (Mike, Mary, Margaret, Mark, Matt, Martha, Martin, Mitch). Mitch has spent his entire life in the community he loves with two of the most loving and supportive parents, Charles and Peggy Major. 

For the past 29 years, he’s been a dedicated Grade 6 teacher, with 24 of those years spent in the Skaneateles School District, shaping the minds of young students in social studies. He’s also celebrating his 25th and final year as the head coach of the varsity boys' hockey team—a role that has defined much of his career and impact in the community.

 

Mitch has also been an entrepreneur for over 30 years, running his own business, Major Skills LLC, which focuses on hockey development. It’s his way of giving back to the sport he loves while helping young athletes build skills both on and off the ice.

 

Family Life:

 

Mitch is supported by his wonderful wife, Kristen, and their three incredible children—Charlie (20), Henry (18), and Cora (16). Mitch and Kristen have been married for 23 years. They’ve built a beautiful life together in Skaneateles, where their children have thrived.

 

Charlie is a freshman at Cornell University, where he plays for the men’s hockey team.

 

Henry is a senior in high school, playing for the Chicago Steel in the USHL (United States Hockey League), an elite junior A hockey league.

 

Cora is a sophomore at Skaneateles High School and will be attending Northwood Prep next year, where she will continue her hockey journey.

 

The Majors love spending time on the lake, making memories together, and going to Hilton Head every year, where they enjoy biking as a family. Their faith is an essential part of their lives, and attend Grace Chapel, where they find strength and connection.

 

Profession:

Mitch’s career as a Grade 6 social studies teacher and hockey coach has been driven by a genuine passion for working with kids. After graduating from SUNY Geneseo, where he played college hockey, Mitch decided to pursue a Master’s degree in Education from LeMoyne College. His journey started with volunteering as a youth hockey coach in Skaneateles, and his love for teaching grew from there. Mitch credits his friend Gary Gerst, who encouraged him to follow his passion for education, as a pivotal moment in his career.

 

Mitch loves the smiles he sees on his students' and players' faces, whether in the classroom or on the rink. He credits his wife, Kristen, for being the backbone of their family and business, keeping everything running smoothly. None of his success would be possible without her love and support.

 

Passions:

 Mitch has a variety of passions outside of teaching and coaching. He’s an avid golfer and loves spending time on the lake with his family. His hockey team is involved in various charitable activities throughout the year, and Mitch especially enjoys the Great American Bike Giveaway in Syracuse. The Majors also dedicate time to helping local youth hockey players, giving back to the community that has given them so much.

 

Mitch’s perfect day starts with quiet time with God and a cup of coffee, followed by breakfast and conversation with Kristen and the kids. If he can get a round of golf in and perhaps a bike ride with the family, it’s an ideal way to spend the day. Of course, watching his kids play hockey is always a highlight—often with two TVs running at once, keeping up with both Charlie and Henry’s game, and now adding in Cora's next year. 

 

Gratitude:

Above all, Mitch is most grateful for his family and the amazing community of Skaneateles, which has provided a wonderful place to raise his children. He feels blessed beyond measure and is deeply thankful for the life he’s built. As Mitch would say, "God is good!"