Team Staff Positions
Vancouver Minor Hockey Association relies on dedicated volunteers to ensure our teams run smoothly. Each team requires several key positions to be filled by parent volunteers. Below you'll find information about each position and its responsibilities.
Team Staff Positions
Head Coach +
The Head Coach is responsible for overall team development and operations, including:
- Planning and conducting effective practices
- Creating a positive and supportive team environment
- Developing player skills, hockey knowledge, and sportsmanship
- Managing the bench during games and tournaments
- Communicating regularly with players and parents
- Working collaboratively with assistant coaches
Requirements: All Head Coaches must have the appropriate Hockey Canada coaching certification for their division level, complete a criminal record check, and adhere to all VMHA and PCAHA policies.
If you're interested in coaching here's the steps to becoming a VMHA Coach:
- Fill out the New Coach Application
- Complete the Team Staff Registration
Certification requirements of a Head Coach:
- Submit a Criminal Record Check
- Complete the Respect in Sport
- Complete the Concussion Awareness Toolkit
- Coaching Qualification - please see Coaching Certifications Required by Division team requirements and BC Hockey Coaching Clinics.
DO NOT start any of the above certifications unless you have been directed to do so by the VMHA Registrar. Only persons who are rostered to a team will be eligible for reimbursement.
Reimbursements are done at the end of the season once all post task requirements have been completed. Please submit your receipts via the VMHA Expense Form. Deadline to submit receipts is March 31.
Assistant Coach +
Assistant Coaches work under the direction of the Head Coach to:
- Help implement practice plans and drills
- Provide individual attention to players during skill development
- Assist with game management and player rotation
- Support the team philosophy established by the Head Coach
- Fill in for the Head Coach when necessary
Requirements: Assistant Coaches must have the appropriate Hockey Canada coaching certification, complete a criminal record check, and adhere to all VMHA and PCAHA policies.
If you're interested in becoming an Assistant Coach here's the steps:
- Fill out the New Coach Application
- Complete the Team Staff Registration
Certification requirements for Assistant Coaches:
- Submit a Criminal Record Check
- Complete the Respect in Sport
- Complete the Concussion Awareness Toolkit
- Coaching Qualification - please see Coaching Certifications Required by Division requirements for assistant coaches and BC Hockey Coaching Clinics
DO NOT start any of the above certifications unless you have been directed to do so by the VMHA Registrar. Only persons who are rostered to a team will be eligible for reimbursement.
Reimbursements are done at the end of the season once all post task requirements have been completed. Please submit your receipts via the VMHA Expense Form. Deadline to submit receipts is March 31.
Team Manager +
The Team Manager handles administrative duties and serves as the primary communication link between coaches, parents, and the VMHA. Responsibilities include:
- Managing team roster and contact information
- Distributing practice and game schedules
- Coordinating tournament registrations and travel arrangements
- Ensuring game sheets are properly completed and submitted
- Organizing team events and fundraising activities
- Acting as liaison between coaching staff and parents
- Managing TeamSnap or other team communication tools
Requirements: Team Managers must complete the Hockey Canada Team Manager course, obtain a criminal record check, and be familiar with VMHA and PCAHA policies and procedures.
If you're interested in becoming a Team Manager here's the steps:
- Complete the Team Staff Registration
- Contact your team's Head Coach to express your interest
Certification requirements for Team Managers:
- Submit a Criminal Record Check
- Complete the Respect in Sport
DO NOT start any of the above certifications unless you have been directed to do so by the VMHA Registrar. Only persons who are rostered to a team will be eligible for reimbursement.
Reimbursements are done at the end of the season once all post task requirements have been completed. Please submit your receipts via the VMHA Expense Form. Deadline to submit receipts is March 31.
This position is critical for ensuring smooth team operations throughout the season.
Hockey Canada Safety Person (HCSP) +
The HCSP is responsible for player safety and well-being. This important role includes:
- Implementing an effective Risk Management program
- Maintaining a fully stocked first aid kit
- Being present at all games and practices
- Maintaining player medical information forms
- Implementing return-to-play protocols for injured players
- Managing the team's emergency action plan
- Monitoring playing conditions for safety hazards
Requirements: Must complete the Hockey Canada Safety Program (HCSP) course, have a valid first aid certification, undergo a criminal record check, and maintain confidentiality regarding player medical information.
If you're interested in becoming a Hockey Canada Safety Person here's the steps:
- Complete the Team Staff Registration
- Contact your team's Head Coach and Team Manager to express your interest
Certification requirements for HCSP:
- Submit a Criminal Record Check
- Complete the Respect in Sport
- Complete the Concussion Awareness Toolkit
- Complete the Hockey Canada Safety Program (HCSP) Course
DO NOT start any of the above certifications unless you have been directed to do so by the VMHA Registrar. Only persons who are rostered to a team will be eligible for reimbursement.
Reimbursements are done at the end of the season once all post task requirements have been completed. Please submit your receipts via the VMHA Expense Form. Deadline to submit receipts is March 31.
Every team must have at least one certified HCSP to participate in games.
On Ice Helper (U7 and U9 ONLY) +
On Ice Helpers provide additional support during practices for our youngest players in U7 and U9 divisions. Please note the following important limitations:
- Limited to ONE On Ice Helper per team
- Not a rostered bench position
- Cannot be on the ice without a certified coach present
- Cannot be on the bench during games
- Does not qualify for volunteer hours for the purpose of the volunteer fee refund
If you're interested in becoming an On Ice Helper here's the steps:
- Complete the Team Staff Registration
- Contact your team's Head Coach to express your interest
Certification requirements for On Ice Helpers:
- Submit a Criminal Record Check
- Complete the Respect in Sport
DO NOT start any of the above certifications unless you have been directed to do so by the VMHA Registrar. Only persons who are rostered to a team will be eligible for reimbursement.
Reimbursements are done at the end of the season once all post task requirements have been completed. Please submit your receipts via the VMHA Expense Form. Deadline to submit receipts is March 31.
Team Treasurer (Rep Teams Only) +
The Team Treasurer manages the team's finances, which is particularly important for rep teams due to additional expenses. Responsibilities include:
- Establishing team budget in collaboration with coaches and team manager
- Collecting team fees from parents
- Managing the team bank account
- Tracking and recording all income and expenses
- Processing reimbursements for approved team expenses
- Providing regular financial updates to parents
- Preparing final financial statement at season end
Requirements: Basic accounting knowledge, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to transparent financial management. Must pass a criminal record check and follow VMHA financial policies and procedures.
If you're interested in becoming a Team Treasurer here's the steps:
- Complete the Team Staff Registration
- Contact your team's Head Coach and Team Manager to express your interest
Certification requirements for Team Treasurer:
- Submit a Criminal Record Check
Additional Information
If you have questions about any team staff position or would like to volunteer, please contact your Division Coordinator or email registrar@vmha.com.