This season marks the eighth year of the OMHA Coach of the Month presented by The Coaches Site. We asked for nominations of deserving coaches and after much deliberation, Kris Bellissimo of the Newmarket U12 B Red team was selected as the Coach of the Month for January.

Know someone who should be Coach of the Month? Click here to nominate them.

Here's his story as told by his nomination:

Coach Kris' number one focus for our team is "teamwork" we play as team, we win as team, we lose as team -its a team effort! He motivates the players and boost there confident after each game no matter win or lose. He puts in so much of his time and efforts in developing skills for each practice, we can actually see the outcome in the players in each game as we move forward. This is a new team, and the amount of work required for Coach Kris to help with the players learn new things and gel together as team takes a lot of time and dedication which he has demonstrated that already. His was more then the perfect choice for this role! You can definitely see the team come together, game by game.

I grew up playing hockey my whole life and loved the team bonding and memories that our teams would share. This year I was lucky enough to get the head coaching position where I get to coach not only my own twin boys but also the rest of the great U12 boys. We are a brand new team but the kids have bonded as if they have been friends forever. They love being together and show how much they care when they step into the ice.

Our main focus has been playing for the logo on the front of our jerseys “our big N” rather than worrying about the name on the back. We have strived to make team first plays which allows us all to benefit in the end. Individual stats are only praised as part of the team concept with the understanding that many little plays along the way helped contribute to overall team success. 

We have also really focused on not being afraid to make plays. Mistakes are part of the game and help us learn to be better players. But we encourage our players to continue to making plays in order to help the team succeed and not be scared to make mistakes. Giving each player the confidence to be themselves and have fun out on the ice has really helped take the pressure off. 

Our practices are fast paced and engaging for all position players. We try to continue to build on our team concepts while encouraging full effort and willingness to make plays. We have started to have the players name the new drills we bring to each practice, which allows both efficiency and ownership. They have enjoyed coming up with unique names such as ‘The Whaley’ or ‘The Deeker’. It has been a fun way to keep them engaged. 

Please note that all previous submissions are still eligible for upcoming Coach of the Month awards and do not need to be resubmitted.