Mel Davidson shares her knowledge with OMHA

By Joan Janzen

Mel Davidson, head coach of the gold medal-winning 2006 Winter Olympics and 2010 Winter Olympics Canadian women’s team, has been offering training and coaching sessions to the Oyen Minor Hockey Association (OMHA). During last fall’s Online Fundraising Auction, Davidson offered to donate coaching and training sessions, both in-person and via zoom meetings, and her donation generated $2,000 towards operating expenses.

Over the past three weeks, OMHA coaches, parents, board members and players have participated in these sessions. A two-part in-person session focused on developing coaching skills, and additional sessions instructed OMHA parents on growth and development of their hockey players. The executive of OMHA received training on running a successful association, and Davidson’s training also covered coaching strategies and other aspects of the sport.

Two of the sessions focused on the many opportunities available in female hockey and the positive aspects of keeping an active female program in minor hockey associations.

The final session included a few draws for two hockey jerseys and numerous posters of Canadian women hockey players from the present and past. Alice Tessie and Macey Lyster were the lucky winners of jerseys.

Both parents and their children appreciated every moment of time and knowledge donated by Mel Davidson. She is not only talented but has the ability to effectively share her knowledge with others.