Each year, the Wild zone recognizes volunteers that have shown leadership, dedication as well as being a good ambassador of the Wild. It is tough to choose only one Coach as so many are deserving this year and every year.

The 2023-24 Wild Coach of the Year award goes to Brent Friesen. Brent was head coach of the U11A Wild Thunder. 

A small excerpt from the nomination: To say Brent has experience coaching would be an understatement. He has coached a number of the players since first year Initiation (going on 6 years!) as well as his older son for 8 years. Devoting 14 hockey seasons to the Wild Zone is commitment and that doesn’t include the spring season where he volunteers as head coach for the 2013 Junior Crushers or his involvement managing 35 players in summer/fall scrimmages leading up to zone try-outs. His commitment to the sport is year-round.

Several attributed and examples of Brent’s leadership includes focusing on player development, fair play mentality, strategic decisions, proactive, attentive and emphasis on fun for the team.

Brent’s compassion has been witnessed more than once with a couple of players (and their families) going through traumatic, life changing experiences over the past few seasons. His thoughtfulness and actions are a testament to his true character and it’s coaches like Brent whose support contributes to the strength of our hockey community.

Congratulations Brent! 

We also want to thank all of our coaches and coaching staff in volunteering their time and knowledge to work with our players and provide positive experiences.