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

The Government of Saskatchewan proclaimed September 16 to 24, 2023 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.

“Coaches 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. “They help build tomorrow’s leaders and provide tools and resources that empower participants to excel. On behalf of the Government of Saskatchewan, I’d like to express our sincere gratitude to all coaches for their valuable commitment and dedication to our province.”

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.

“As a long-time coach, I understand the vital role we can play in an individual’s life,” said Andrea Wolf, Chair of the Coaches Association of Saskatchewan. “Coaches help build the leader’s of tomorrow by sharing and teaching life lessons that will serve well beyond the playing surface. Coaches in Saskatchewan are committed, dedicated and passionate. They better Saskatchewan communities through countless hours and we want to ensure that it doesn’t go unnoticed. Thanks Coach!”

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.