What does it mean to be a coach?
A hockey coach is defined as the person responsible for directing the team during games and practices, prepares strategy and decides which players participate in games.
This true by definition, however Dave believed that the sport of hockey and coaching was more... much more.
Hockey played a huge role in developing Dave in a time in his life when he had little guidance and structure. As a young man, hockey gave Dave the purpose, direction, and refuge he needed. It kept him on the straight and narrow and he loved the game.
Dave believed that a coach leads by example and should walk the walk. A coach is a mentor of respect for self and others, promotes camaraderie, and demands dependability. Skills such as responsibility, integrity, and adaptability are all essential to the game as in life. Being part of a team means that everyone is of value in many different ways and that it takes all of these differences together in order to make a team strong and successful. Everyone has a place and a job. These are all areas of coaching that Dave exemplified.
This award is presented, in memory of Dave Evans, to the coach who demonstrates a love of the great game of hockey and in developing those young men and women who play it.
Nominations taken until February 28th address to the President of Kneehill Minor Hockey Association.