The Shift Forward: Evolving Hockey Culture - COach

Shift Forward – Coach: New Mandatory Training for Team Officials

As of April 15th 2026, Hockey Canada and Hockey Alberta have officially transitioned to The Shift Forward: Evolving Hockey Culture. This program replaces the former Respect in Sport – Activity Leader certification for all coaches and will not honour any Activity Leader certifications taken in other sports moving forward.

IMPORTANT: ACT NOW

Please complete this program immediately. Do not wait until the season begins. Completing this now ensures your eligibility is verified early and helps avoid delays in recruitment and team placement.

Note: This requirement is exempt from the standard Hockey Alberta deadlines and must be fulfilled before admission on the ice with the team. Coaches without valid certification cannot be added to rosters or participate in any team activities.

Transition Rules

• Existing Certifications: If you have a valid Respect in Sport – Activity Leader certificate already in your HCR, Hockey Alberta will recognize it until its current expiry date. 

• New & Expired Coaches: If you are a new coach or your previous certification has expired, you must complete the Shift Forward – Coach program before you can be rostered.

Note that if you have a Respect in Sport – Activity Leader certificate from another sport, it will NOT be honoured; you must take the Shift Forward – Coach