The Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL) is excited to announce the three winners of the Coach of the Month Award for March: Bourget College (Martin Gascon, FX Girard, & JP Brais), Jordan Mackenzie, and Dennis McKinnon.
For the 2024/25 season the CSSHL is proud to introduce the Coach of the Month Award for the three different CSSHL divisions: Eastern, West Female, and West Male.
This award is aimed at recognizing the incredible coaches within the CSSHL and acknowledges their hard work, dedication, commitment, leadership and impact on the game both on and off the ice.
We would like to congratulate these three coaches, who were all nominated by their programs, for their hard work in the month of March.
East Division: Martin Gascon, FX Girard, & JP Brais – Bourget College
“The Bourget College coaching staff led their team to five wins in five days to win the CSSHL East U18 Championship. They navigated the team through different points of the year, allowing crucial teaching moments to apply to a rigours CSSHL Championships. The team of coaches are extremly dedicated to the development of student-athletes.”
West Female Division: Jordan Mackenzie – Delta Hockey Academy Black
“Delta nominated Jordan after an incredible playoff run that showcased preparation, passion, and leadership. Taking the youngest team in the league from a 13th place finish into the Division II finals was no small feat. From thoughtful details like playoff shirts and green playoff laces to high-intensity practices and countless hours of video prep, every detail was meticulously planned. Coach Jordan instilled belief in a group that had been labeled underdogs and helped them rise to the occasion. The team went 1-0-1 in round robin play, including the final round robin game this team battled through three consecutive overtime games—winning two of them in thrilling fashion to reach the finals. In the final, facing a significantly older and more experienced opponent, the team showed incredible heart, rallying from a 3-0 deficit to bring the game within one. The resilience Jordan and Paris’s team displayed was a direct reflection of the growth, mindset, and grit developed all season under Coach Jordan’s guidance.”
West Male Division: Dennis McKinnon – Okanagan Hockey Academy
“OHA is honoured to nominate Dennis in recognition of his exceptional leadership as the OHA U17 Head Coach. Under his guidance, the team concluded the season with an impressive 25 wins, securing second place in the division, before capping off their remarkable performance by winning the U17 Division I Championship.
However, Dennis’s impact goes far beyond wins and losses. His focus on building both skilled players and strong character has proven to be his true “X-Factor.” By fostering a positive, cohesive, and disciplined team culture, he has created an environment where players thrive not only as athletes but as individuals.
Throughout the season, Dennis has been committed to strengthening team bonds and promoting personal growth. He hosted team breakfasts and arranged various team-building activities, creating an atmosphere of unity and mutual respect. Additionally, he arranged for his players to volunteer with the Salvation Army Kettle Bells initiative over the holiday season. This community involvement gave the team a chance to give back while learning invaluable lessons in teamwork, humility, and the importance of service to others. Dennis’s dedication to these experiences underscores his belief that growth happens both on and off the ice.
Dennis’s meticulous attention to detail—whether in his coaching strategies or his commitment to his players’ overall development—demonstrates his unwavering focus on upholding the program’s core values. He ensures his players are not only prepared for the game but also equipped for success in life.
Dennis’s leadership has also had a profound impact on his coaching staff. His assistant coach has flourished in their role, thanks to the mentorship, guidance, and support Dennis provides. By empowering both players and staff, Dennis creates opportunities for growth at every level of the program.
In all aspects of his leadership, Dennis McKinnon exemplifies discipline, dedication, and the spirit of mentorship, making him a deserving winner for Coach of the Month.”
