Q&A: Mika Cyr on a university career defined by resilience

Mika Cyr leaves behind a lasting legacy with the Université de Moncton hockey program.

The captain capped his fifth and final season by earning U SPORTS Men's Hockey Player of the Year honours after helping lead the Aigles Bleus to a third consecutive national championship appearance. Cyr finished among the AUS scoring leaders with 39 points, including 19 goals, while serving as the driving force behind one of the country's top programs. He was also recognized as a U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian, adding academic excellence to an already impressive hockey résumé.

The road to that success was not always straightforward. During his second and third seasons at Moncton, Cyr battled a series of shoulder injuries that required surgery and nearly brought his playing career to an end. Through determination, perseverance and the support of teammates, coaches and athletic therapists, he returned to enjoy the best season of his university career.

As a captain of the Aigles Bleus, Cyr built a reputation as a respected leader whose impact extended far beyond the scoresheet. Whether mentoring young athletes, coaching youth hockey or representing his community, he embraced every opportunity to give back while pursuing excellence on the ice and in the classroom.

As he reflects on his nomination for the Lois and Doug Mitchell U SPORTS Athlete of the Year Award and prepares for the next chapter of his hockey career, Cyr spoke with U SPORTS about leadership, resilience and the lessons he learned along the way.

U SPORTS: How did you first start playing hockey?

Mika Cyr: I started really young. My dad put me on skates when I was about three years old. My older brother wasn't interested in hockey, so I guess my dad got a second chance with me. I started playing organized hockey when I was five, and the rest is history.

U SPORTS: What made you fall in love with the sport?

Cyr: My dad is a huge Canadiens fan, so I grew up watching hockey. When I was young, I could only stay up for the first period. As I got older, I was allowed to watch more of the game. I also spent a lot of time playing ball hockey with my cousins in front of the house. Hockey was always part of my life.

U SPORTS: Did you always see university hockey as part of your future?

Cyr: It was always an option. Like every kid, my dream was to play in the NHL. Once I got to major junior, I realized it was important to have a plan B and prepare for life after hockey. University gave me the opportunity to continue playing at a high level while earning a degree. Looking back, it was a great decision.

U SPORTS: Why did you choose the Université de Moncton?

Cyr: I had already spent five years in Moncton playing junior hockey with the Wildcats. My family, my friends and my support system were all there. My brother and cousins had gone to the Université de Moncton as well, so it felt like the natural choice. I'm really happy I stayed.

U SPORTS: How would you describe the culture within the Aigles Bleus program?

Cyr: It's all about family. We always say, "Once an Aigle, always an Aigle." At first, it sounds like a cliché, but once you're part of the program, you realize it's true. The culture has continued to grow over the years, and it's built around great people. It's a family atmosphere, and that's what makes it special.

U SPORTS: What did you learn most during your time at Moncton?

Cyr: Leadership. I think I always had leadership qualities, but being captain for three years really helped me develop them. It helped me become a better leader and a better person. That's probably what I'm most proud of.

U SPORTS: What kind of leader did you try to be?

Cyr: I tried to make sure everyone felt comfortable being themselves. I'm pretty easygoing and approachable, so I wanted the younger players, the older players and everyone in between to feel welcome. We worked hard, but we also had fun. That family atmosphere helped bring everyone together.

U SPORTS: What did it mean to be named U SPORTS Men's Hockey Player of the Year?

Cyr: It was an incredible honour. Two years ago, I suffered a major shoulder injury that required surgery, and it was really difficult to come back from. Last year was my first full season after that, and this year everything came together. The work I put in during the summer and throughout the season paid off. It's something I'm very proud of.

U SPORTS: What does this athlete of the year nomination mean to you?

Cyr: It's a huge honour. To represent Moncton and Atlantic Canada on a national stage means a lot. There are so many great athletes at our university and across the country. Just being part of this group of nominees is something I'm very grateful for.

U SPORTS: Who would you like to thank?

Cyr: First and foremost, my family and my partner. They've supported me through everything, especially over the last few years, dealing with injuries. I'd also thank my coaches, teammates, friends and everyone who has been part of my journey, from minor hockey to junior hockey to university. Everybody played a role in helping me get here.

U SPORTS: What would the younger version of Mika think about everything you've accomplished?

Cyr: I think he'd be proud. Proud that we never quit and kept pushing through the difficult moments. But I also think he'd remind me that the journey isn't over. I'm still young, and I still want to play hockey after university. The goal is to keep working hard, keep having fun and see where the game takes me.

U SPORTS: What advice would you give young student-athletes?

Cyr: Do what you love. University sport is an incredible opportunity because you get to pursue your passion every day with people you care about. The years go by quickly, so enjoy every moment. Work hard, appreciate the experience and embrace the opportunity because we're very lucky to do what we do.

U SPORTS: What's next for you?

Cyr: I'd love to continue playing professionally. That's the goal. I still feel like I have a lot of hockey left in me, so hopefully I'll have the chance to keep playing and continue living my passion for the game.