Promotion

In 2006 the NFL High School Coach of the Year program was expanded to also recognize community and varsity (under 19) coaches. The program is now called The Home Depot NFL Canadian Youth Coach of the Year.

High school and community coaches put a lot of energy into developing the game of football in Canada. To recognize these efforts, the NFL and created The Home Depot NFL Youth Coach of the Year award.

Previously only open to Canadian University football players wishing to say 'thanks' to their former coach, the program now accepts nominations from any Canadian citizen who knows a deserving volunteer coach.

Each fall the NFL and announce a short list of finalists for the award, run in conjunction with the Vanier Cup (Canadian University Football Championship).

The award is designed to recognize coaches across Canada who make significant contributions to the game of football, and to the development of players both on and off the field.

The winning coach is selected from the shortlist by a panel of NFL and CIS officials, and journalists from across Canada. The results are announced during the week preceding the Vanier Cup. A total of $5,000 WORTH OF FOOTBALL EQUIPMENT is donated to the winning coach's program. Two runners-up will each receive $2,000 in equipment. Thousands of dollars in The Home Depot gift cards (for 'football program renovation' projects, such as fixing bleachers or painting locker rooms)will also be awarded to winning coaches. The winning coach is also recognized at the annual CIS coaches' luncheon, and is a guest of the National Football League at the Vanier Cup celebrations .

Anyone wishing to nominate a coach is asked to submit a short essay recognizing the positive impact their former high school coach has on students and players, both on and off the field.

Nominators are asked to consider how their coach teaches respect, safety, motivation, leadership and appreciation for the game of football when drafting nominations.

"We define the Youth Coach of the Year as someone who gives selflessly of his time and positively impacts his players," said Mike Danischewsky, Events and Football Development at NFL Canada.