Coaches Roles & Responsibilities
Coaches play a vital role in the development of our players and the overall success of the program. They dedicate significant time and energy to support their teams, often asking for little in return beyond the satisfaction of helping athletes grow.
Great coaches:
- Build strong character in their players
- Develop individual and team skills
- Foster a positive and respectful team environment
- Represent the game and association with integrity
Success is not measured solely by wins and losses, but by player development, team growth, and progress throughout the season.
🌟 Coach Expectations
Coaches are expected to serve as positive role models 100% of the time for all players.
This includes:
- Maintaining a positive approach to player mistakes and learning moments
- Demonstrating respect for referees, regardless of calls
- Showing respect for opponents and the game
- Treating all players with fairness and respect
- Promoting good sportsmanship in both victory and defeat
Coaches are leaders who help players learn to be a class act—win or lose.
🏒 Head Coach - Role Description
The Head Coach is responsible for the overall leadership, organization, and development of the team.
Key Responsibilities:
- Serve as the official spokesperson for the team
- Delegate responsibilities to assistant coaches and team staff
- Plan and coordinate on-ice and off-ice activities
- Develop and implement practice plans (in collaboration with assistant coaches)
- Lead the team during games and practices
- Establish team rules and ensure appropriate player supervision
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and development-focused environment
📋 Certification & Requirements
All bench staff are required to complete mandatory training and certifications prior to roster approval.
Respect in Sport - Keeping Girls in Sport
The CPGHA Executive is proud to collaborate with the Respect in Sport - Keeping Girls in Sport program.
- All bench staff are required to complete this course
- A valid certificate number must be submitted to the Registrar prior to roster approval
Getting Started
📚 Coaching Her Program (Tucker Centre for Research on Girls & Women in Sport)
We also encourage coaches to take advantage of resources from the Coaching Her Program through the University of Minnesota’s Tucker Centre for Research on Girls & Women in Sport.
This program helps coaches:
- Better understand the unique needs of female athletes
- Learn how menstrual health can impact performance
- Support players through physical and mental health challenges
Available Resources:
(Please see attached documents for full details.)
📘 Resources
Bench Staff Manual
🌐 https://cloud.rampinteractive.com/cpghaca/files/CPGHA%20Bench%20Staff%20Manual%202022.docx
💙 Our Coaching Philosophy
At Carleton Place Girls Hockey Association, we value coaches who:
- Prioritize development over results
- Create a safe, inclusive, and positive environment
- Inspire confidence, growth, and a lifelong love of the game
