Ryerson Rams women’s hockey adds Olympic gold to coaching roster
Haley Irwin hopes her experience in national and international play will help Rams women’s hockey.
It is safe to say that all student-athletes dream of where their sport can take them in the world of competition. Imagine, then, the excitement of the Ryerson Rams women’s hockey team when they found out in late July that two-time Olympic champion Haley Irwin is their new assistant coach. Irwin, a Thunder Bay native, represented Team Canada at the 2010, 2014 and 2018 Olympic Games, on the women’s ice hockey team. We sat down with Irwin to find out what she’s looking forward to in her new role as assistant coach, what it takes to be an elite athlete and a little bit about her whirlwind adventure representing Canada on one of the most legendary hockey teams in history.
What are you most looking forward to in your new role as assistant coach?
I’m most looking forward to getting to know all the players and staff. It’s a chance for me to pass along my knowledge to the players while continuing to grow and learn from the staff.
What are you bringing to the role?
Experience. I’ve played hockey my entire life and can relate to the players. I’ve also coached while still playing for the past five seasons.
How did you end up being hired as assistant coach?
Throughout the hiring process I stayed true to myself, shared my passion, work ethic, and was able to connect my knowledge and experience to what Ryerson was looking for in a coach.
What has the highlight of your career been?
Representing Canada at three Olympics (2010, 2014, 2018) has been the highlight of my career. Winning Gold in Canada in 2010 was definitely a very special moment.
What goes into being an elite athlete?
A lot! The things I always felt I needed have been: strong work ethic, determination, courage, the right attitude, good time management skills, and being passionate about hockey. I think loving what I do makes showing up really easy.
How do you hope to inspire the students and athletes?
I hope to inspire them by leading by example, sharing my experiences and knowledge, and helping them set and reach their own goals.
What was it like for you to represent Canada as an Olympic athlete?
It’s a dream come true! Wearing the Maple Leaf, knowing how we are representing this great country is the biggest sense of pride I have ever felt. It’s the most amazing feeling, one that is really hard to put into words.
The Ryerson Rams women’s hockey season starts on October 18th, with the home opener happening on October 23rd.