There is arguably no more important role in hockey than that of the coach, who is tasked with guiding young players not only on the ice, but off it as well. They are leaders in hockey, and leaders in life.

Hockey Canada and BFL CANADA are on the hunt for the country’s best women behind the benches, and they are calling on players and parents from coast to coast to nominate hockey coaches who have made significant contributions to the game.

Nominate a coach in your community! See our list of eligible categories and submit your nomination through the form below.

Category Definitions:

• Community Coach: Defined as a woman coaching athletes of any age who play and compete in divisions where there is not a National Championship identified as a culminating event. (ex. U7-U15 House League Coaches, up to A/AA)
• Competitive Coach: Defined as a woman coaching athletes who play and compete in divisions where the participants are eligible to compete in National Championships, accredited Sport Schools Championships, or provincially designated Programs of Excellence. (ex. Sport Schools, U15-U18 AAA, U22 Elite)
• High Performance Coach: Defined as a woman coaching athletes that are above the age of 16 and compete at the USports, Canadian Collegiate Hockey, or Professional levels.

For our Community, Competitive and High Performance categories, the nominee:

• Leads by example in demonstrating fair play and sportsmanship.
• Places the emotional and physical well-being ahead of a personal desire to win.
• Places an emphasis on equitable participation of all players registered on the team.
• Demonstrates a commitment to the development of every player and staff member.
• Treats each player as an individual and understands the range of emotional and physical development.
• Does her best to provide a safe playing situation for all players.
• Uses the coaching techniques that are appropriate for all of the age and skill level of her players. 
• Must be actively coaching in a sanctioned local hockey association or high performance levels
• Must be trained and/or certified in the National Coach Certification Program.
• Must have completed all elements required to be an active coach.
• Must be good standing with their provincial or territorial member.

Nominations are open until March 31, 2024. Click here to nominate a coach.