CALGARY, Alta. – The Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL), in conjunction with the National Hockey League Coaches’ Association (NHLCA) announced Wednesday, the names of the five finalists for the Darcy Haugan/Mark Cross Memorial Award, emblematic of the CJHL Coach of the Year for the 2020-21 campaign.
The following are the five finalists for the Darcy Haugan/Mark Cross Memorial Award, which are listed alphabetically, by league.
Pier-Alexandre Poulin, Condors du Cégep Beauce-Appalaches (LHJAAAQ)
Brad MacKenzie, Grand Falls Rapids (MHL)
Tyson Ramsey, Virden Oil Capitals (MJHL)
Corey Beer, Timmins Rock (NOJHL)
Peter Goulet, Trenton Golden Hawks (OJHL)
This honour, presented annually by the CJHL and NHLCA, is in memory of Humboldt Broncos (SJHL) head coach Darcy Haugan and assistant Mark Cross, who were among those who sadly lost their lives following the tragic events of April 6, 2018.
Each of the five nominees were determined, following a voting process completed by the member leagues who participated in this season’s proceedings.
Due to the circumstances of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which resulted in various levels of play across the CJHL this season, the format for the 2020-21 award was altered to reflect that.
The criteria for nomination included the following:
ˑ A team’s coach who made a difference with his team in a non-hockey related role with his club, be it through player support, programs that aided in well-being, offering mental health programs, etc.
ˑ A CJHL coach that was involved in a community initiative that provided support and player involvement to a local non-profit program.
ˑ Someone who made an impact with their team in skill development, both on and off the ice.
ˑ On-ice success during the 2020-21 season, if applicable.
Earning honourable mention for the 2020-21 Darcy Haugan/Mark Cross Memorial Award as CJHL Coach of the Year, presented in conjunction with the NHL Coaches’ Association were: Scott Barney, Humboldt Broncos (SJHL) & Kurt Walsten, Dryden GM Ice Dogs (SIJHL).