Congratulations to HNO’S 2024-2025 Coach of the Year, Joe Ritson!
Joe was nominated in recognition of his exceptional leadership and dedication as well as the impact he has made to the Minor Hockey community.
Read Joe’s full nomination below!
Over the years, Coach Joe has led both the Westfort Rangers, and South End Rangers to multiple city championships, demonstrating not only his strategic expertise but also his ability to develop a winning culture both on and off the ice.
Beyond the Rangers successes on the ice, Coach Joe has played a crucial role in helping countless players grow to play at the next level in Hockey, whether in advancing throughout the Thunder Bay Minor developmental programming, pursuing elite level, or other competitive opportunities.
His commitment to developing players through gradual progressions of individual skill growth as well as developing a deep level of understanding of team strategies helps all of the players fortunate enough to play for him the opportunity to grow as athletes.
One of the most apparent examples that highlights his dedication is to the growth of the game in Thunder Bay and the HNO Branch is through the countless hours that he has dedicated coaching multiple teams each year for the last decade. He has coached 2-3 teams a year, throughout the past decade for our Branch within various levels. He can often be found coaching multiple events each night throughout the fall and winter months.
Coach Joe is a beloved member of the Thunder Bay Hockey Community, his players eagerly await his arrival at each team event and are excited to learn from him each day. It is a very common occurrence to hear “Is Coach Joe going to be here today?” with smiles on their faces.
His commitment to player development extends beyond skill-building; the development model that he delivers for each team that he is involved with emphasizes character, work ethic, and sportsmanship, ensuring that all athletes grow as individuals as well as competitors.
Coach Joe is more than a coach, he is a mentor and role model, inspiring athletes to push their limits and reach new heights. His passion for the game, combined with his commitment to all his players’ futures, makes him truly deserving of this honor.
