September 18, 2020

It’s time to say “Thanks Coach” in Saskatchewan.

The Government of Saskatchewan proclaimed September 19 to 27, 2020 Coaches Week in the province in support of the Coaches Association of Saskatchewan and National Coaches Week.

This week-long event celebrates the dedication coaches have to their role and promotes the positive impact they have on athletes and communities. With many coaches operating as volunteers and committing an average of more than 120 hours each year to Canadian sport, the week also provides a simple way to say thanks to these integral leaders. The Coaches Association of Canada coined the term “Thanks Coach” to show appreciation.

“There are few accolades as natural, joyfully respectful and heartfelt as ‘Thanks Coach,'” Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Gene Makowsky said. “I don’t think we can overestimate the positive effects that good coaching and good coaches can have on the individual community – contributing to a legacy by helping guide the next generation as they move forward to become leaders and contributing citizens.”

Today more than 27,000 trained coaches work with 320,000 registered participants in Saskatchewan on 6,000 different local teams, clubs and leagues. Across Canada, more than 1.5 million Canadians have received coach training and one in seven Canadians will coach at some point in their lives.

“Coaches are leaders who work at all levels of sport and with athletes of all abilities to foster safe and quality environments while encouraging respect, inclusivity, communication, dedication and teamwork,” said Doug Hillis, Chairperson of the Coaches Association of Saskatchewan. “They are everyday role models that inspire those they work with and that can influence how people view sport, physical activity and themselves. Through that leadership they are building healthier, active communities that will benefit future generations in our province.

Support the movement by using the hashtags #ThanksCoach or #CoachesWeek on social media. Other resources and tools to participate in Coaches Week are available at saskcoach.ca.