Coach Start here / 2026-2027

Before registering to coach, review the key expectations, time commitments, and responsibilities involved in coaching with Southwest Hockey ("SHA").

This section also answers common questions about eligibility, interviews, and what's required for both NEW and RETURNING coaches.

Understanding these details will help you determine whether coaching is the right fit for you this season.

Registration doesn't guarantee a coaching position, BUT this is an important first step so we know who is interested. 

Registering lets us know you're interested in coaching for the upcoming season and ensures we have your information as we build our teams following evaluations.

Coaches are encouraged to complete eight (8) evaluation ice times, as outlined in the email/link that will be provided by the Director of Coaches.

When all factors are equal in the Coach Selection Process, preference may be given to applicants who have fulfilled these evaluation expectations.

If a coach is not selected for a rostered position, completing all eight (8) ice times will count toward the two (2) credits in the Bonus Opportunity and fulfill the family's Volunteer Bond commitment.

AFTER being selected as a Coach - Coaches need to review what requirements to be completed in order to go on the ice and bench.

AFTER being selected, if the following courses have expired or not previously completed, all 4 need to be completed BEFORE being permitted on the ice: The 4 core requirements in order to go on the ice are: TeamLinkt Register to Coach, Police Check, Shift Forward, and Safety Level 1. All can be completed online.

AFTER being selected as a Coach and completing the 4 core requirements - Coaches then complete the age-appropriate certifications. These can be reviewed by clicking the "View Certification Requirements" button.

You can also review your Spordle Account to check on expired certifications: CLICK HERE

All certifications must be completed by the Hockey Canada November 15  deadline to stay on the roster. 

U9 games use rink boards to create a smaller, development‑focused playing area. Coaches can review setup guidelines and responsibilities on the dedicated U9 Rink Boards page.

Pre‑season Coach Meetings are mandatory for all Head Coaches and recommended for Assistant Coaches (space permitting).

These meetings cover; season expectations, safety requirements, and overall team operations.

Division‑specific dates, times, and locations are posted on the Coach Meetings page as they are confirmed.

If being reimbursed for certifications is important to you, please review all information to confirm your eligibility for reimbursement BEFORE registering for certifications.

If a certification is taken, and it was not a required certification – Coaches will not be reimbursed.

To assist teams with the 'day-to-day' operations, the TeamOps page is provided to help ensure that everyone involved in Team Operations has access to information related to their position.

Team Operations ('TeamOps') is made up of the following positions; Head Coach, Assistant Coaches, Managers, Assistant Managers, Team Treasurers, SHA Raffle Liaison, Jersey Parents, and Tournament Coordinator.

Know what equipment is provided, what is provided at the start of the season, what must be returned at the end of the season and how jerseys should be handled throughout the season.

Coaches help ensure everything stays in good condition.

Coaches must follow all dressing room requirements, including supervision expectations and electronics restrictions. These guidelines help create a safe, respectful environment for all participants.

Full details are outlined in the Dressing Room Policy.

Families acknowledge the "Expectations: Parent Code Team Rules" during registration, which outlines team standards and the progressive consequences for inappropriate behaviour.

Coaches apply these expectations, and should they need to add expectations - this should be in consultation with the Director of Coaches. Early documentation of concerns is encouraged to support clear communication and consistent follow-up.

Regular participation in both practices and games is important for player development and for the success of the team.

One (1) Assistant Coach will track attendance using the official "Attendance Matters" spreadsheet provided by the SHA Administrator, with records used internally to support communication and consistency.

Participant safety is a shared responsibility, and coaches are expected to follow all SHA safety guidelines throughout the season.

Any injuries must follow the Return to Play process to ensure participants come back with the proper clearance and support. These steps help maintain a safe environment for every participant.

This applies to Community League teams from U9 through U18. House League teams do not go through a re-seed process.

The Seeding Round places teams into an initial division based on the Hockey Calgary grid. After a series of placement games, teams may be re-seeded to ensure appropriate competitive alignment, based on criteria set by Hockey Calgary. Once re-seeding decisions are finalized, teams proceed into the Regular Season schedule.

Affiliations help teams manage injuries and absences.

Follow the approved process to ensure all affiliated participants are used correctly and within Hockey Calgary rules.