Hockey NL is pleased to open the application process for positions with our Men’s and Women’s Teams for the 2027 Canada Winter Games in Quebec City, Quebec.

We are seeking passionate, knowledgeable, and dedicated individuals to help lead Team NL through its preparation, development, and competition journey ahead of the 2027 Canada Winter Games.

Available Positions

  • Head Coach
  • Assistant Coach
  • Assistant Coach
  • Goalie Coach
  • Equipment Manager / Trainer
  • Director of Operations

Head Coach Applications

Applicants for Head Coach positions are asked to submit a technical package outlining their vision and planning approach leading up to the Games. This package should include:

  • Program Framework: Overall camp schedule and progression plan.
  • Roster Planning: Expected player numbers through each phase.
  • Team Identity: Outline the team’s playing style, values, and on-ice identity.
  • Team Culture: Strategy for building cohesion and performance.
  • Collaboration: Approach to working with staff and Hockey NL leadership.

Additional Staff Roles

Applicants for Assistant Coach, Goalie Coach, Equipment Manager/Trainer, and Director of Operations positions must submit a hockey resume and all relevant certifications, along with a brief outline of their experience. Assistant Coaches will support technical and tactical delivery and player evaluation. The Goalie Coach will manage goaltender development, evaluation and preparation. The Equipment Manager/Trainer will oversee equipment, safety, and basic therapy needs. The Director of Operations will handle logistics, communication, pre-scouting objectives, and coordination with Hockey NL and the Canada Games organizing committee.

Coach and Staff Requirements

All team staff are required to fulfill the following criteria prior to the Games.

  • Commit to full participation in all camps, events, team meetings, development sessions, and group discussions.
  • Hockey NL Screening Application, Criminal Record Check & Vulnerable Sector Check
  • Respect in Sport / The Shift Forward Certification
  • NCCP Certification Requirements:
    • Head Coach – High Performance I (HP1) Certified
    • Assistant Coaches – High Performance 1 Trained (Trained coaches may apply, with certification to be completed by July 1, 2026)
    • Goalie Coach – Goaltending 3 preferred. Goaltending 1 at a minimum.
    • Equipment Manager / Trainer – Hockey Canada Trainer Program Level 1 (or equivalent) and Valid First-Aid/CPR.

Pathway to the 2027 Canada Winter Games

Date Program Phase
November 10, 2025 Call for Staff Applications
December 7, 2025 Deadline for Applications
December 2025 Interview & Evaluation Period
January 2026 Coaching Staff Announced
May/June 2026 CWG Phase #1 Selection Camp
July/August 2026 CWG Phase #2 Selection Camp
October 2026 Pre-Canada Games Event
December 2026 Christmas Break Camp
February 27 – March 14, 2027 2027 Canada Winter Games – Quebec City

 Application Process

Interested applicants are asked to provide a resume outlining their qualifications and certifications. In addition, Head Coach candidates must submit a technical package as described above. All applications should be submitted electronically to Hockey NL no later than December 7, 2025. 

Evaluation and Selection

All applications will be reviewed by the Hockey NL High Performance Selection Committee. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. Final selections will be based on qualifications, experience, leadership ability, and alignment with Hockey NL’s High Performance values.

2027 Canada Winter Games Program Overview

The 2027 Canada Winter Games Program for both male and female teams will consist of two phases delivered through a series of camps. This program will operate separately from other High-Performance age groups. Eligible athletes for the Men’s Hockey Team must be born between 2011 and 2015, and for the Women’s Hockey Team between 2009 and 2015.

Phase 1 will be held in the St. John’s area in May or June. This phase will include fitness testing or on-ice testing, interviews, presentations, and on-ice sessions.

Selected players will advance to Phase 2, held in the St. John’s area in July or August. This phase will emphasize team structure, identity, and culture through team-building activities, mental preparation, goal setting, fitness testing or on-ice testing, and off-ice sessions.

Following Phase 2, a detailed schedule and expectations will be set for coaches and selected players, including ongoing video sessions, team meetings, and preparations leading into the 2027 Canada Winter Games.

Hockey NL is dedicated to building competitive, inclusive, and well-supported programs that reflect the pride and determination of Newfoundland & Labrador athletes. We look forward to assembling two outstanding teams to represent our province at the 2027 Canada Winter Games.

Deadline to apply – December 7th, 2025.