U8 MD, 2023-2024, MD (Markham Waxers)

Rich Brewda

My name is Rich Brewda and I have volunteered within minor hockey for over twenty years in various capacities, from coach, general manager, vice-president, president and most recently – hockey parent. 

I recently stepped down as President of the North Toronto Hockey Association in the GTHL to focus more time on my children’s hockey. North Toronto is one of the largest minor hockey associations in the GTA, province, and possibly the country. I served on many committees with the GTHL (Greater Toronto Hockey League) and the OHF (Ontario Hockey Federation) for various initiatives. My wife is one of the registrars at North Toronto so, needless to say, hockey runs our house. Prior to being president, I served on the board as Director of Coaching Development, General Manager and Vice President. 

I have coached at various levels of hockey, from House League up to AAA and various age groups over the 21 years. I also worked for several years as a hockey instructor while I was coaching. One thing that doesn’t change for me at any of those levels or ages is the importance of fun. Whether it is U7 or U18, our job as coach is to not only develop good hockey players and teams but more importantly, good human beings. This all revolves around fostering a positive team culture and environment for all the players, parents, and coaches. Hockey can provide players with some amazing life skills such as commitment, respect, and responsibility which will help them even in their adult years. 

Some of my personal hockey accomplishments include being named the 2016 Herb Ebisuzaki Coaching Award winner for GTHL Coach of the Year. This is a league wide award that I was very honoured to receive. In 2016 I was also the recipient of the Volunteer of the Year Award at North Toronto and in 2023 was one of the recipients of the Markham Waxers Volunteer of the Year Award for our Growing the Game committee’s efforts to introduce hockey to more youth in the Markham community. 

As coach, I lean on all my hockey experience to develop these kids into great hockey players and even better human beings. We continue to work on the progress we have made. My teams have a strong emphasis on development and fun.×