Black History Month: Nyla Barbon - Leading with Passion from the Bench

As we acknowledge Black History Month, it’s important to recognize the voices and stories that are shaping the future of hockey. Nyla Barbon is one of those voices—making an impact in the coaching world. Though she’s only been coaching for two years, Barbon has already made a significant impact on her players, inspiring them to grow not just as athletes, but as confident individuals.

Barbon’s journey into coaching started with a deep love for the game. “I played hockey for thirteen years—about 10 years in minor hockey, and then I also played Junior A,” she says. “I decided that I would still love to stay included with my community and help out coaching. Additionally, I coach my younger sister, which helps me stay close to her and spend more time with her”.

As a newer coach, Barbon has already experienced moments that have shaped her into the leader she is today. “It feels like every game is a highlight moment,” she expresses. One of the highlights for her has been watching her players develop and gain confidence both on and off the ice. “With the way the kids play together, communicate, joke around with us coaches, it makes me feel nostalgic and makes me feel like I’m back playing with all my friends” she shares. “Being there is the highlight itself, it’s the highlight of my winter. I am still passionate about this sport; I just get to be passionate from the bench.”

For Barbon, coaching isn’t just about skills or strategies—it’s about positive encouragement. “I was one of the only girls playing on my team growing up majority of the time, so having male coaches. That pushed me to my goals and told me, you know, you are a good hockey player. You are good at skating. You are good at this. Insanely inspirational. It changes the way a kid feels about themselves and their sport,” she explains. “When someone other than a parent or sibling or someone super close to them can says ‘hey I’m super proud of you, you’re doing amazing.”

She not only leads with encouragement but was also shaped by strong mentors and leadership growing up. “Every single one of my coaches growing up, all male coaches expect for one, all super amazing people, amazing dads, amazing humans and they pushed me to do better and told me I could do anything I wanted on the ice. Which I did!”

This is especially important for Nyla as she reflects on Black History Month. “it’s important in the way where it allows kids that might feel like they’re not welcome in the sport, or make kids feel like they’re not good enough to play hockey, or make kids, you know, those that feel they’re not quite adequate enough though, to others, that they can do it, and they can be a part of it” she says.

“Because I can say for sure that I don’t look the same as a lot of the people that I played with or the people that coached me or just anyone around me in the town I grew up in, I look significantly different and I think that as a little girl if I were to have seen a woman coach who maybe doesn’t look like everybody else on the team, I would have been like, okay, wow, there’s somebody that can represent me and my goals and what I could see myself doing as a young child.”

Barbon’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and creating opportunities for young players—especially young women—speaks to her dedication to the game. Even though her coaching career is still in its early stages, she’s already paving the way for the next generation. “I want to be that for other little girls. And it’s amazing to be in the arena right now and see so many young kids from everywhere playing hockey and being a part of it. And even coaching, we play against teams that are their startup teams. It’s kids that maybe wouldn’t have never stepped on the ice, but because these associations and these communities are making it safe and inclusive, same with Hockey Canada, it’s happening and we’re seeing it.”

For anyone who’s inspired by Nyla’s journey and is interested in coaching, Hockey Alberta offers resources and opportunities to get started. Whether you’re new to coaching or looking to expand your skills, there’s always room for more passionate individuals in the world of hockey.

SHERWOOD PARK, AB — Hockey has always been more than just a sport—it’s a community, a place where players come together, support each other, and grow both on and off the ice. For Abby, a young hockey player with a visual impairment, the Strathcona Minor Hockey U7 Team has played a pivotal role in helping her experience the game with the same passion and joy as her peers. Abby’s journey has become a shining example of inclusion and teamwork through the unwavering support of her coaches, teammates, and the hockey community.

Abby’s love for hockey began with her older brother, Will, who introduced her to the rink. As she grew more interested in the game, her family sought opportunities for her to play. This led Abby to the Edmonton Seehawks, where she participated in blind hockey, a growing program designed for visually impaired players. While Abby enjoyed her time with the Seehawks, it wasn’t until she joined Strathcona Minor Hockey’s U7 Warriors team that she truly found her place. The structured team atmosphere and focus on skill development were exactly what Abby needed to thrive.

Her parents, David and Jada, have been key players in her journey. Jada shared, “We learned early on that Abby was going to do anything that her older brother could do. Once she joined the Warriors last year in U7, she really liked the drills and the skills they were working on. She wasn’t getting that in blind hockey but found it with Strathcona.”

The importance of inclusion in sports cannot be overstated. Abby’s experience with Strathcona Minor Hockey is a testament to the team’s commitment to creating an environment where every player feels valued and supported regardless of ability. From the very beginning, Abby’s coaches have made it clear that she is a vital part of the team.

Nick Scott, the head coach, stepped into his role with the understanding that Abby’s participation would require some adjustments. He worked with her parents to implement a unique solution—a special puck with ball bearings that produces sound cues, allowing Abby to track it on the ice. Coach Nick’s dedication to making the game accessible for Abby is reflected in the entire team’s commitment to inclusion.

“The other kids have really embraced it,” said Coach Nick. “They understand that not everyone experiences the game the same way, and they rally around Abby. Using the special puck has not only helped Abby but has also been a learning experience for all of them.”

Abby’s teammates have learned valuable lessons in empathy and inclusion through interactions with her. The team manager, Jordyn Pennington, shared how her child has benefited from playing alongside Abby. “It’s given him a real-life, hands-on experience with someone who has a visual impairment,” she explained. “It’s allowed him to see what Abby goes through and how she can still find success and love for the game.”

This first-hand experience is shaping the way the young players view the world. “Our coaches are fantastic at creating a positive atmosphere for all the kids,” Jordyn added. “They show the kids that, even though our levels and ages might be different, we’re all here to love the game and support each other.”

The focus is on fostering a supportive and encouraging environment where success is measured by effort and teamwork, not just skill. For Abby, this means being able to participate in the sport she loves alongside teammates who cheer her on every step of the way.

Abby’s journey is far from over. With the support of Strathcona Minor Hockey, her coaches, and her teammates, Abby continues to grow as a player and person. The future may hold new challenges, but Abby is ready to face them head-on. David and Jada’s goal for Abby is simple: “We just want to keep her on the ice, keep her enjoying the game, and see where it takes her,” said David. “She’s got great coaches, and she’s got the support of us as her family. We’ll see what happens, but for now, we’re just enjoying the ride.”

For Strathcona Minor Hockey and her U7 Warriors Team, Abby’s journey is a reminder of the power of inclusion and the positive impact it can have on the entire community. By embracing Abby’s unique needs and helping her succeed, the Warriors have created a space where every player, no matter their background or ability, can feel like they belong.

Edmonton is set to host a series of exciting events as part of the PWHL Takeover Tour, celebrating the growth and excitement of women’s hockey. Fans will have multiple opportunities to watch players in action, interact with PWHL stars, and enjoy family-friendly activities across the city FOR FREE.

The events kick off on Friday, February 14, with a MacEwan Griffins game at 7:00 PM at the Downtown Community Arena. Hockey fans can use the promo code PWHLTAKEOVER to grab their tickets at a discounted price.

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On Saturday, February 15, hockey enthusiasts are invited to watch the Ottawa Charge Open Practice from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Rogers Place. This is a great opportunity for fans to see the team prepare for their upcoming game during the PWHL Takeover Tour.

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The weekend continues with a family-friendly skating party on Saturday, February 15, at the Esso Oval, ICE District Plaza from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The free event invites fans to skate with Oilers personalities, alumni, and PWHL players, while enjoying hot chocolate and treats from the Esso Pit Stop.

Later that evening, fans can take part in the Beyond the Boards event at West Edmonton Mall from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM. This exclusive event features a Q&A session with Jincy Roese, an Alternate Captain for the Ottawa Charge, and rookie player Stephanie Markowski. The Q&A will provide an inside look into their journeys to the PWHL and advice for young, aspiring hockey players. Following the Q&A, attendees will have the chance to meet Jincy and Stephanie in person for photos and autographs. This is a free event, but registration is required due to limited spots.

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And don’t miss your chance to win tickets to the event! Head over to Hockey Alberta’s Instagram page for your chance to win lodge tickets for the upcoming games.

With the PWHL Takeover Tour bringing so many exciting activities to the city, this is a weekend no hockey fan will want to miss. Get ready to celebrate women’s hockey and connect with your favorite players in Edmonton!

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta has announced the coaching staff for Team Alberta U18 Female at the 2025 National Championships.

USport’s Calgary Dinos Female head coach Josh Gosling (Chestermere) is stepping onto the bench as the head coach of Team Alberta. Gosling has coached and mentored in the Alberta Cup and Alberta Challenge programs, and is mentoring the South Green team at the 2025 Alberta Challenge.

Joining Gosling behind the bench are assistant coaches Mandy Layden (Drayton Valley) and Craig Perrett (Calgary), along with video coach Tatum Amy (Calgary) and goalie coach Jamond Cardinal (Edmonton).

Other members of the staff for Team Alberta U18 Female include Equipment Manager Dave Campbell (Grande Prairie), Coach Mentor Rob Dawson (St. Albert) and Director of Operations Michael Kraichy (Red Deer).

Layden is currently an assistant coach with the MacEwan University Griffins Female (USport) team, and has previously coached and mentored in the Alberta Challenge program. She is slated to be the coach mentor for North Yellow at the 2025 Alberta Challenge.

Perrett is the current Director of Operations of the Calgary Fire in the Alberta Female Hockey League. He has coached Team Alberta U18 on three previous occasions, has coached and mentored at the Alberta Cup and Alberta Challenge, and is the coach mentor for South Black at the 2025 Alberta Challenge.

Amy is the current video coach with the Mount Royal Cougars Female team (USport), also having captained the Cougars Female squad from 2021-2023.

Cardinal steps into the goalie coach role for the first time with Team Alberta, and is currently the Goalie Coach for the UofA Pandas Female (USport) team.

RED DEER – Hockey Alberta has announced the coaching staff for Team Alberta U16 Male at the 2025 WHL Cup.

Former two-time Team Alberta U16 assistant coach Cody Reynolds (Sylvan Lake) takes the reins this year as the new head coach. Reynolds is currently the associate head coach with the Red Deer Polytechnic Kings of the ACAC. He has also coached in multiple Alberta Cups throughout his coaching tenure and will look to lead Team Alberta to their second WHL Cup win in a row.

Joining Reynolds behind the bench are assistant coaches Ryan Allen (Grande Prairie) and Jack Redlick (St. Albert), along with video coach Justin Ostertag (Calgary) and goalie coach Theo Zubot (Calgary).

Other members of the staff for Team Alberta U16 Male include Therapist Matt Goertzen (Edmonton), Equipment Manager Dave Campbell (Grande Prairie), Head Scout Bobby Fox (Calgary), Coach Mentor Barry Medori (Spruce Grove) and Director of Operations Michael Kraichy (Red Deer).

Allen is currently the head coach for the AEHL U18AAA GPAC Storm, has previously been an assistant coach and video coach for Team Alberta U16 Male, including the winning 2024 squad, and has coached and mentored in previous years in both the Alberta Cup and Prospects Cup Programs.

Redlick has been the current head coach of the AEHL U18AAA St. Albert Raiders since the 2016-17 season, currently leading the team to the top of the North Division, and has gone through Hockey Alberta’s system by coaching at the Alberta Cup.

Ostertag is the current head coach of the AEHL U17AAA Calgary Flames and has held the position since the 2023-24 season. He has coached in both the Alberta Cup and Prospects Cup programs, and is slated to be the head coach of Alberta Blue at the 2025 Alberta Cup.

Zubot returns for his second consecutive year as goalie coach for Team Alberta U16, being a member of the 2024 championship team the previous year. He was the Goalie Coach of the U15 AAA and U17 AAA Calgary Northstars before moving up to the Western Hockey League where he’s currently the Goalie Coach of the Calgary Hitmen.

Hockey Alberta recently hosted its annual Female Hockey Day, celebrating the growth and development of female hockey across the province, with the host city being Medicine Hat. This year’s celebration was presented by ATB and brought together players, coaches, officials, family members, and volunteers to participate in events that highlighted the continued growth of female hockey in Alberta.

Female Hockey Day is an exciting occasion that celebrates the achievements of female athletes and provides an opportunity to connect, learn, and grow the sport.

One of the key takeaways from this year’s event in Medicine Hat was the strong community support from across the city. "There were a few things that stood out most about this event and about Medicine Hat, specifically, as a hockey community," said Morgen Kidney, Hockey Alberta’s Minor Leagues Coordinator. "The first being the fact that every hockey-lover and supporter was super excited to take part in the day in some fashion. Even though our sessions were focused on girls’ hockey development, we saw brothers, dads, and other men supporting the event around the rink all day. This was most evident during the Showcase Game, in which there were a ton of young men in the crowd cheering for the top level of girls’ hockey in Alberta!"

Additionally, the energy in the arena was undeniable, with attendees showing a strong desire to stay and support the event from start to finish. "The other aspect that stood out about the event in Medicine Hat was that no one wanted to leave the arena. We see events where people come and go, but it was fantastic to see that the Medicine Hat girls in each of the sessions wanted to hang around, cheer for the other groups, and be involved in as much as possible."

Kidney also reflected on the growth of the event over the past few years. “It’s really exciting to see how much Alberta Female Hockey Day has grown in the last few years. It was only 3 years ago that we were only seeing 2-3 associations apply to host satellite events in conjunction with our main one; the past two years, we’ve had 15+ apply.” Kidney continued, “I think this speaks to the incredible recent growth of girls’ hockey, and it’s only going to continue. Having events like this spread out across the entire province gives girls a chance to celebrate, enjoy the game, work on their skills, and spark conversation about their hockey goals and dreams.”

While Medicine Hat was the main host city for the 2025 event, celebrations took place in over 10 communities across Alberta, thanks to grant funding from the Hockey Alberta Foundation. These celebrations were held in Fort McMurray, High Prairie, Slave Lake, Bonnyville, Grovedale, Vermilion, Morinville, Edmonton, Lacombe, Red Deer, and Jasper, making Female Hockey Day a truly province-wide celebration.

The success of Female Hockey Day this year highlights the incredible growth and energy surrounding female hockey in Alberta, with communities coming together to support and inspire the next generation of athletes.

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