Marley Ervine, co-coach of the Western Prairie U15 AA hockey team, has been recognized with the BFL Women in Coaching award, marking nearly a decade of dedication to developing young athletes in Saskatchewan.
Ervine, who played university hockey until 2016, began coaching immediately afterward, starting with spring hockey in Saskatoon before moving to the Kindersley area in 2020. Over the past two seasons, she has led the Western Prairie AA program alongside Amber Grolla, helping prepare players for higher levels, including U18 AAA.
“Seeing these players develop, not just their skills on the ice, but their skills off the ice, is ultimately what will stick with them longer than the game,” Ervine said in an interview. She noted that modern players are benefiting from earlier exposure to video analysis and off-ice training, experiences she only encountered at the university level.
Ervine said she is taking a step back from head coaching in the upcoming season to focus on a lighter role, helping various teams rather than committing to one full program.
Reflecting on the award, she said it represents more than her individual work. “I truly do believe that who you coach with is part of the award as well,” she said. “My time with Western Prairie, coaching with great hockey-minded individuals, has made coaching and being part of the team really special.”
Western Prairie Female Hockey also recognized Ervine on social media, praising her contributions to the program. “Marley has generously given her time as a non-parent coach over the past several seasons in Western Prairie. Her passion, dedication, and knowledge have made her a valuable part of the WPFH program,” the organization wrote. “There is arguably no more important role in hockey than that of the coach, who is tasked with guiding young players not only on the ice, but off it as well. They are leaders in hockey, and leaders in life.”
The BFL Women in Coaching award recognizes outstanding women who have made significant contributions to sport development and athlete mentorship across Canada. Winners in the Community and Competitive categories receive provincial or national bursaries, while High Performance winners may also earn an invitation to Canada’s National Women’s Team camp.