HNB Coach of the Month: Abby Clarke (EDZA West AAA Reds)

We are proud to announce that Abby Clarke (U18 AAA EDZA West Reds, Head Coach) is the Hockey New Brunswick Coach of the Month.

“Abby Clarke is in her first year as head coach of the EDZA West U18 AAA TNT Reds. Her desire to give back to her community, love of the game and desire to help young female hockey players realize their hockey goals and dreams ultimately led to her decision to take on the role of Reds head coach. Abby has taken charge by putting countless hours into developing her vision for the team and working to build an elite program. She sends her players a detailed practice plan prior to each ice time so they can spend more time doing the drills and less time having them explained”.

“Abby seeks out opportunities for the girls to have guest coaches and zoom meetings when possible. This season, COVID-19 has created many challenges for players and coaches. Abby has found ways to adapt and devised a rigorous summer fitness program for the girls to follow at home in preparation for camp. She finds creative ways to use parking lots for team meetings and bonding events. Above all else, Abby has made it a top priority to keep our girls safe and to adhere strictly to all public health COVID guidelines.”

“While Abby cares about the development of her team, she cares about their lives outside of hockey as well. She makes sure to have team meetings and check-ins with the players regarding such topics as school and their mental health. She is a caring and compassionate coach, professional but also outgoing and fun! While she expects players to work hard and give 100% effort, she can also be heard laughing and having fun with the girls on the ice. She has even been known to strap on her goalie pads for practice or join the girls for their dry land training sessions. Abby knows balance is key to success. Abby is a wonderful role model as a person, an athlete, and a coach. The U18 AAA TNT Reds are very fortunate and grateful to have such a quality person involved with the program. The future of the Reds is brighter with Abby in it and an HNB Coach of the Month Award would be nice way to recognize her efforts and commitment to female hockey.”

Abby will receive a Bauer Coaches bag, a 1-year subscription to the Hockey Canada Network, and a CoachMate package from Hockey New Brunswick. To nominate someone for Coach of the Month click here: https://hnb.ca/en/coaches/coach-of-the-month