The Coach Development Director plays a vital role in supporting the growth and success of coaches within FMMHA. This position leads the planning and execution of coach onboarding, mentorship, and ongoing education opportunities. The role also oversees implementation of coaching resources and ensures alignment with Hockey Canada’s development pathways, in collaboration with Division Directors, Technical Leads, and the VP of Development.

Leadership

Communication

Coordination

Support

Compliance

Estimated Time Commitment: 65-85 hours per Season

Travel Commitment:  None

Skills and Qualities

The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following:

• Experience coaching in minor hockey and a strong understanding of Hockey Canada’s development model.

• A passion for developing coaches at all levels of play within the organization.

• Strong collaboration skills and the ability to work effectively with coaches, players, and other stakeholders.

• Excellent interpersonal, leadership, and mentoring abilities.

• Strong communication and organizational skills.

• Ability to plan and coordinate coach-focused training and engagement initiatives through development partners.

• Proficiency with online tools and platforms to share, manage, and organize coaching resources.

Key Responsibilities & Focus Areas:

• Preseason Planning & Resources:
  • Adapt the Hockey Canada Development Pathway into a seasonal coaching plan tailored to each division.
  • Create and maintain a dedicated coach webpage with links to resources, practice planning tools, and seasonal guidelines.
  • Support Division Directors in recruiting and assigning coaches, and ensure completion of all required certifications.

  Coach Mentorship & Communication:

  • Mentor new and less experienced coaches, helping them navigate team management, practice design, and communication.
  • Facilitate feedback loops by collecting and reviewing team season plans and providing constructive input.
  • Encourage the sharing of coaching ideas and challenges to foster a collaborative environment.

  In-Season Engagement:

  • Support the delivery of coach-specific clinics as needed.
  • Coordinate and host regular “Coffee Talks” for coaches on key topics such as Bench Management, Player Discipline, Team Culture, etc.
  • Monitor coaching needs and challenges through regular touchpoints with coaches and Division Directors.
  • Provide guidance and troubleshooting support for practice delivery, conflict resolution, or player development issues.

  Junior Coach Program:

  • Oversee the Junior Coach Program by pairing eligible players with a senior coach who will provide mentorship.
  • Support training, tracking, and evaluation of Junior Coaches throughout the season.
  • Promote leadership and skill development opportunities for youth volunteers interested in coaching pathways.

  Collaboration & Reporting:

  • Work closely with the VP Development, Goalie Development Coordinator, and Technical Leads to ensure cohesive messaging and support.
  • Maintain a record of coach development milestones and track completion of feedback, clinics, and mentorship activities.