Hayley Wenaas remembers what it felt like playing sports in school.
It’s why she decided to pursue a career coaching young athletes on and off the field.
As a physical education and sport medicine teacher at George McDougall High School, Wenaas also coaches the boys senior varsity volleyball team.
In 2023, the team took home three championships: Rocky View, South Central Zones and 3A Provincials — the school’s first provincial banner in 18 years.
“We had an amazing run in 2023, and I want to bring that same energy next season,” says Wenaas, who also coaches for the Calgary Blizzard Soccer Club.
“When I think of high school sports, I remember how amazing it felt to be a part of the team. We had our challenges, but those are some of my fondest memories. When it comes to my coaching philosophy, I want my students to have fun, but also improve a little bit every day. By the end of the season, they’ll have come a long way.”
Nominator and colleague Suzie Beckett says Wenaas has a long coaching career ahead.
“Her calm and collected nature, patience, and passion for sport and leading youth allowed her to form close-knit teams,” says Beckett.
“Watching her coach, you can see the relationships she forms with her athletes, and they respect her and the decisions she makes.”