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 heart of the team’s development. They lead practices, set the tone for team culture, and help players grow in skill and confidence throughout the season. As the go-to leader on and off the ice, Head Coaches play a critical role in shaping a fun, safe, and positive experience for everyone.
The team’s leader and primary decision-maker. Responsibilities include:
Planning and running practices
Coaching during games
Managing the rest of the bench staff
Supporting player development and fair play
Communicating with families and the association
Head Coaches must complete division-specific certification and set the tone for a positive team experience.
Assistant Coaches are the Head Coach’s right hand. They jump in during practices, help manage the bench during games, and give players that extra boost of encouragement. Assistant Coaches are key to keeping things running smoothly and making sure every athlete feels supported.
Supports the Head Coach by:
Leading drills and stations during practices
Helping manage the bench during games
Offering encouragement and individual feedback
Stepping in when the Head Coach is unavailable
Assistant Coaches also require training and certification appropriate to the division.
Trainers are the team’s safety champions. They’re prepared to handle injuries, emergencies, and anything health-related that comes up during the season. With first aid knowledge and a calm presence, Trainers help create a safe environment where players can focus on fun and development.
Focused on athlete safety and emergency preparedness:
Manages injuries, first aid, and warmups
Maintains emergency action plans
Promotes safe and healthy play habits
Must hold Standard First Aid + CPR-C and required online certifications
A certified Trainer is required for every team.
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 14-17-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 14-17 who want to get coaching experience:
Assists with practices and games under adult supervision
Acts as a peer mentor to younger athletes
Helps demonstrate drills and encourage team spirit
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.
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.