Who’s Who on the Bench — and How Each Role Helps Our Athletes Thrive
Every ringette team is supported by a group of certified volunteers and helpers who make the season run smoothly, safely, and with a whole lot of fun. Whether you’re looking to coach, support from the sidelines, or help on the ice, there’s a role for you!
Walden Ringette teams compete at the Regional B/C level, playing against other associations and attending tournaments throughout the season. These teams are community-based, inclusive of all skill levels, and focused on fun, development, and fair competition.
Head Coaches are the leaders of the team. They set the tone for team culture, oversee practices and games, and ensure player safety and development. As the primary decision-maker, the Head Coach is responsible for the season’s direction and for creating a positive, supportive environment for athletes, families, and staff.
Responsibilities include:
Planning and leading practices
Coaching during games
Managing and supporting the rest of the bench staff
Overseeing player development and fair play
Communicating with families and the association
Ensuring the TRF (Team Registration Form) is accurate and staff are properly qualified
Head Coaches must complete division-specific certification and are ultimately responsible for the safety, conduct, and development of their team.
Assistant Coaches are the Head Coach’s right hand. They provide direct support in practices and games, offering players encouragement, skill development, and feedback. Assistant Coaches ensure the team runs smoothly and step up whenever the Head Coach is unavailable.
Responsibilities include:
Leading drills and stations during practices
Helping manage the bench during games
Offering encouragement and individual feedback
Stepping in when the Head Coach is absent
Assistant Coaches require training and certification appropriate to their division.
Trainers are the team’s safety champions. They are responsible for First Aid, player well-being, and emergency preparedness. Trainers play a critical role in ensuring that players stay safe both on and off the ice.
Responsibilities include:
Providing First Aid and ensuring player safety
Overseeing the team’s Emergency Action Plan (EAP)
Completing safety/incident reports when necessary
Supporting the team at all activities, not just games
Every FUN3 to U19 team must have a certified Trainer with First Aid certification listed on the game sheet. Trainers must be 18+ years old.
On-Ice Assistants are a huge help, especially in younger age groups. They’re often parents or volunteers who support coaches during practices, helping kids learn to skate, stay engaged, and have fun on the ice. It’s a great way to be involved without committing to a full bench role.
An excellent way for parents or volunteers to support practices without joining the formal bench staff:
Assists with practices on the ice only
Cannot be on the bench during games or tournaments
Especially helpful in FUNdamentals and younger age groups
Must wear skates and a helmet, and complete required online courses
This role is perfect for those new to ringette or looking to support without a full coaching commitment.
Junior Coaches are future leaders in action. These 16-17-year-old athletes assist under adult supervision, helping to run practices, guide younger players, and bring energy to the bench. It’s an amazing first step into coaching for those who want to give back to the sport they love.
For athletes aged 16-17 who want to get coaching experience:
Must be 16-17 years old as of December 31 of the season
No official duties, but may assist on the bench
Maximum of two Junior Coaches per team
Count toward the five-person bench staff limit
Junior Coaches must complete age-appropriate training and appear on the TRF (Team Registration Form).
Player Helpers are older athletes who step up to support younger teams. Whether it’s mentoring goalies or demonstrating drills, these players bring experience, leadership, and encouragement to the ice. They don’t join games or sit on the bench, but their presence at practice is a big benefit.
Player Helpers are active ringette players from older divisions who support younger teams at practices only:
Often used for goalie mentoring or demo support (e.g., a U14 goalie helping U10 goalies)
Cannot be on the bench for games or tournaments
Not listed on the TRF but play a key role in mentorship
Must be approved by the Head Coach and association
This is a great way to foster leadership, responsibility, and connection across age groups.
Team Managers are the behind-the-scenes MVPs who keep the team organized, informed, and running smoothly. They support the coaching staff by managing communications and logistics, so everyone can focus on having fun and playing the game.
Handles the team’s organization and off-ice communication:
Manages team emails, schedules, and logistics
Coordinates events, photos, tournaments, and volunteers
Supports coaches so they can focus on the ice
Team Managers require manager certification. Managers are not permitted on the bench during games. Must be 18+ years old.
Visit our Bench Staff Requirements by Division page to see exactly what training is required for each role based on division and position.
Still not sure where to start? We’re here to help.
📧 Email us at ringdevils@hotmail.com
For more information on Coaching, and to read the full Team Staff Qualification Pathways and others, visit the Ringette Ontario website.