Outstanding Coach of the Year Award

Established in 2018, the Outstanding Coach of the Year Award was created in memory of Steve Verville—a dedicated, long-time NLYHA coach whose passion for hockey and unwavering commitment to our players left a lasting impact on the entire Northern Lakes community. After Steve’s passing in 2017, his family partnered with NLYHA to establish this meaningful award in his honor.

About the Award

This award celebrates a coach who exemplifies the same values that Steve lived by on and off the ice:

• Prioritizing attitude over outcomes
• Encouraging teammates, showing humility in victory and grace in defeat
• Recognizing where growth is needed and putting in the work
• Going above and beyond to develop players as both athletes and people

Nominate a Coach

Nominations for the Outstanding Coach of the Year Award are accepted in conjunction with the End of Season Banquet. All members of the NLYHA community, including players, parents, and fellow coaches, are encouraged to nominate a coach who has made a positive impact.

Let’s continue honoring Steve’s legacy by recognizing those who coach the way he did with passion, heart, and purpose.