Job Description

TOP Hockey is launching new competitive minor hockey teams in Whitby for the 2026-2027 season and is seeking a qualified and experienced

Head Coach

to lead our new program. This role is ideal for someone who has 3-5 years experience coaching minor hockey in the GTHL or OMHA, or has extensive experience with on-ice player development.

Position Overview

The Head Coach is responsible for building and leading a competitive team culture focused on development, accountability, and enjoyment of the game. The successful candidate will plan and execute all team operations related to practices, games tournaments, team events, player growth, team management, and parent engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Program Leadership

Oversee the development of all players through structured practice planning and individualized coaching Create practice plans, development goals, and game strategies aligned with TOP Hockey's club-wide curriculum Lead all on-ice sessions: practices, skills sessions, games, and tournaments Manage assistant coaches, trainers, and team support staff Provide regular feedback to players and families on progress and development areas Maintain a positive, disciplined, and supportive team environment

Season & Team Operations

Participate in tryouts, player evaluations, and final roster decisions Coordinate with organization staff for scheduling, tournaments, team events, and logistics Communicate clearly and consistently with families regarding expectations, team plans, and commitments Ensure adherence to organization policies, safety standards, and Club rules Complete all required reports, game sheets, and administrative tasks

Player Development

Design practices that balance skill development, game-based learning, team concepts, compete level, and fun Model and teach character traits such as resilience, work ethic, teamwork, and respect Support players aiming to progress to higher levels of competitive hockey

Qualifications & Requirements

NCCP coaching certification appropriate for rep-level hockey (OHF Development 1 minimum; High Performance 1 an asset) Vulnerable Sector Check and Respect in Sport certification Previous experience coaching competitive minor hockey or higher (3-5 yrs) Strong understanding of age-appropriate development guidelines and modern coaching practices Ability to manage a team environment with professionalism, fairness, and clear communication Availability for a full competitive season, including evenings, weekends, and tournaments, as needed

What We're Looking For

A coach who values development as much as winning Someone who can set high expectations while building a positive team culture A clear communicator who understands minor hockey families and environments A role model who leads with integrity, patience, and a long-term development mindset
TOP Hockey will be fielding two teams for the 2026-2027 season; a U9 'MD/A' team and U11 'A' team, both competing in a tournament-based schedule through a rep hockey league in Ontario. The Head Coach would lead both teams during the season.

Job Types: Part-time, Permanent

Pay: From $50.00 per hour

Application question(s):

Do you have full-season availability from September to early April? (Ie. evenings, weekends, etc) Do you have access to a car?
Experience:

hockey playing: 3 years (required) hockey coaching: 2 years (required) other youth sports coaching: 1 year (preferred)
Licence/Certification:

CPR/First-Aid (preferred)
Work Location: In person