Wayne Douglas Gretzky CC is a former professional ice hockey player and former Canadian head coach who played 20 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL). But did you know that there are professional coaches at the lower hockey level? The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) supports many community causes, such as Pink in the Rink, Talk Today, and local children's charities. It also provides strong support at the league and club levels for Canadian minor hockey, and supports community hockey through local and regional minor hockey programs, player development camps, official development camps, sponsorship programs, and more. To become a hockey coach, one must complete the appropriate levels of training and certification from Hockey Canada's National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP).
Hockey Canada and its partner organizations strive to keep registration fees as affordable as possible across the country. Respect in Sport promotes the safety and well-being of all minor hockey players, encourages productive communication with officials and coaches, and encourages a positive hockey experience for all involved. Women's hockey has grown rapidly since its acceptance at the Olympic level. Hockey Canada's Rule Book mobile app is a convenient way to have the most up-to-date hockey regulations at your fingertips.
The International Hockey League was formed in 1904 by Dee and Gibson after two series of games called the World Championship. The NHL's professional hockey monopoly was broken in 1971 when the World Hockey Association was organized. Gordie Howe was a legendary figure in ice hockey who began his NHL career in 1946-47 season and went on to play professional hockey for 31 more seasons over four decades. He was an incredible player who set numerous records during his career, including most goals scored in a single season.
He was also known for his physical style of play, which earned him the nickname “Mr. Hockey”. So who was Canada's first top-level minor men's professional ice-hockey player? The answer is Gordie Howe. He was the first Canadian to play professionally in the NHL and he paved the way for future generations of Canadian players to follow in his footsteps.
