*****Creston Valley Minor Hockey (CVMH) is excited to introduce the Junior Coach Program for the 2026/27 hockey season.
The goal of this program is to provide our players with an opportunity to experience the game from a different perspective while expanding their hockey knowledge, leadership abilities, and personal development. Hockey is more than just playing the game—it is also about teaching, mentoring, supporting teammates, and contributing to the growth of the sport within our community.
For many athletes, if you're not on the ice playing, the next best place to be is on the bench helping other players learn and succeed.
The Junior Coach Program is designed to give interested players meaningful hands-on coaching experience while helping younger CVMH athletes develop their skills and confidence. By participating in the program, Junior Coaches will gain valuable insight into the planning, preparation, communication, and leadership that go into coaching a hockey team.
Program Structure
Under Hockey Canada and BC Hockey guidelines, registered minor hockey players may be assigned to a team as Junior Coaches to assist with various coaching responsibilities throughout the season.
The proposed team assignments are:
- U18 players may be assigned as Junior Coaches for U13 teams
- U15 players may be assigned as Junior Coaches for U11 teams
- Junior Coaches may also be assigned to the Junior Jetsprogram
- Goaltenders interested in participating may be assigned to multiple teams to provide goalie-specific support and mentorship
The objective is to create positive mentorship opportunities where younger athletes can learn from older players while Junior Coaches develop leadership and coaching skills.
Responsibilities of a Junior Coach
Junior Coaches become part of the coaching staff and are expected to conduct themselves as leaders and positive role models both on and off the ice.
Responsibilities may include:
- Attending team practices whenever reasonably possible
- Assisting with game-day activities and bench support
- Participating in off-ice training sessions and team activities
- Demonstrating drills and skills during practices
- Assisting coaches with practice planning and organization
- Helping set up and manage stations during practices
- Providing encouragement and constructive developmental feedback to players
- Supporting players in skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship
- Helping create a positive, safe, and inclusive team environment
Junior Coaches are not expected to replace certified coaches but rather work alongside the coaching staff as mentors and leaders.
Benefits of Becoming a Junior Coach
Coaching provides a completely different perspective on the game. Many players discover that helping others learn allows them to better understand systems, skill development, teamwork, and decision-making.
As a Junior Coach, you will have the opportunity to:
- Develop leadership and communication skills
- Improve your hockey IQ and understanding of the game
- Learn how practices and player development programs are designed
- Gain experience working with athletes of different ages and abilities
- Build confidence speaking in front of groups and providing instruction
- Learn responsibility, professionalism, and teamwork
- Become a positive role model within the hockey community
The program is also valuable preparation for future opportunities, including:
- Coaching after your playing career ends
- Employment and leadership positions
- Post-secondary applications
- Scholarship applications
- Volunteer experience requirements
- Community service recognition
Most importantly, Junior Coaches have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on younger players by helping them develop skills, confidence, and a lifelong love of hockey.
If you have any questions please contact jrcoachcoordinator@crestonvalleyminorhockey.com
Who Should Apply?
We are looking for players who are enthusiastic about helping younger athletes learn and grow.
Skill level is not the most important factor.
What matters most is:
- A positive attitude
- A willingness to learn
- Dependability and commitment
- Strong sportsmanship
- A desire to help others improve
- Interest in leadership and mentorship
Whether your goal is to explore coaching as a future pathway or simply give back to the hockey community, we encourage you to apply.
Application Process
Players interested in becoming a Junior Coach must submit a coaching application and indicate their interest in the Junior Coach Program.
Applications will be reviewed by the CVMH Board and coaching committee. Successful applicants will be assigned to a suitable team based on factors such as:
- Age division
- Availability
- Team needs
- Player development goals
Throughout the season, CVMH and the assigned coaching staff will support Junior Coaches and provide guidance to help them succeed in their role.
Recognition and Volunteer Hours
At the conclusion of the season, Junior Coaches will be formally recognized for their commitment and contributions to their team and the CVMH community.
Grade 12 students may be eligible to receive volunteer hours toward graduation requirements, subject to school and district guidelines.
In addition to official recognition, participants will gain valuable experience that can be included on resumes, scholarship applications, and post-secondary applications.
Assignment Guidelines
The following guidelines will be considered when assigning Junior Coaches:
- Siblings may receive preference when assigning teams.
- Preference will be given to local CVMH players.
- The assigned Head Coach must approve the Junior Coach placement.
- Team needs and program balance will also be considered.
Training and Eligibility Requirements
To participate in the Junior Coach Program, applicants must:
- Be a registered BC Hockey minor hockey player in good standing
- Complete all required Hockey Canada and BC Hockey certifications for a Junior Coach level. At this time a Jr Coach would have to complete Respect in Sport (online), Concussion Awareness Training tool (online), Coach level 1 and possibly Coach level 2 team dependent and if going on the bench for games. Both Coach level 1/2 are completed online. Courses would need to be completed by December 1st of the current season.
- Follow all CVMH policies and codes of conduct
- Wear an approved and up-to-date CSA-certified hockey helmet while on the ice
- Conduct themselves as positive role models for younger players
CVMH may approve and cover the cost of required training and certifications, subject to annual budget considerations.
Building the Future of Hockey in Creston
The Junior Coach Program is an investment in both our younger players and our future leaders. By creating opportunities for mentorship, leadership, and community involvement, we strengthen our hockey association and help ensure that the knowledge, passion, and traditions of CVMH continue to grow for years to come.
We encourage all interested players to consider becoming a Junior Coach and take the next step in their hockey journey.
Learn the game. Lead the game. Give back to the game