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

The Government of Saskatchewan proclaimed September 17 to 25, 2022 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.

“A coach’s work is demanding, but highly rewarding, as they play such an influential role in the development of our athletes on and off the field,” Minister of Parks, Culture and Sport Laura Ross said. “Your motivation and encouragement help bring out the best in these individuals. Many of the lessons you teach players will stay with them for the rest of their lives, and for that we say Thank You!”

Today more than 20,000 trained coaches work with registered participants in Saskatchewan on different local teams, clubs and leagues. Across Canada, more than 1.8 million Canadians have received coach training and one in seven Canadians will coach at some point in their lives.

“Coaches play a vital role in the building of tomorrow’s leaders. Their presence as lifelong role models is integral to our communities. They help engrain values of integrity, commitment, collaboration and inclusivity through sport,” said Sue Schmidt, Chair of the Coaches Association of Saskatchewan. “Their commitment to bettering sport in communities across Saskatchewan through countless hours of dedication each and every year does not go unnoticed.”

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.