Hockey is a business, and in a lot of cases coaches are measured by wins and losses.
For Humboldt Broncos head coach Darcy Haugan, the wins and losses were secondary to building good people.
Haugan’s work, which affected many over his decades long head coaching career, did not go unnoticed either as the late Broncos head coach was named the first ever NHL Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award winner.
“I’m honoured to accept this award on behalf of Darcy but not because of what happened to him on April 6, 2018 but because of what he did every day before April 6,” noted Christina Haugan during the awards show.
Haugan spent the last three seasons as head coach of the Broncos and the previous 12 seasons as head coach of the now North Peace Navigators Junior B hockey team in Alberta and British Columbia’s North West Junior Hockey League.
“Darcy used the game of hockey, which he was so passionate about, as a tool to help shape young lives,” noted Christina.
Darcy’s intention of growing good people first was evidenced in the core covenant, which he created and painted onto the wall on the outside of the Broncos dressing room.
The covenant speaks about putting family first, being respectful of everyone else, practicing and playing with passion, and generally touching on the importance of being a good person. The one thing it does not touch on is winning.
“Darcy’s purpose as a coach was to impact lives and develop strong character. His legacy is far more than what is recorded on the stats sheets. It is measured by the lives and communities that are better off for having Darcy in them,” noted Christina.
“It is now up to those individuals to pay forward his legacy onto others. For that reason what’s happening here tonight in Vegas must not stay in Vegas. The torch has been passed.”
In memory of Darcy, the NHL Foundation will be making a donation to the Saskatchewan Brain Injury Association.
“A charity that meant a lot to Darcy,” noted CBC’s Scott Oake during the award presentation.
The Award, which was created in honour of Willie O’Ree, the first black player to compete in the NHL, will be handed out annually by the NHL to the recipient who shows “an impressive record of leadership, collaboration or behavior that has transcended the sport, improving lives and helping others reach their potential,” says the NHL.
“As outlined by the Hockey Principles, participation offers families value beyond making an individual a better player or even a better athlete. This award aims to recognize community heroes who seize everyday opportunities to make better people through hockey.”
Humboldt Broncos core covenant
— as written by Darcy Haugan
Family First.
Treat my teammates and coworkers with respect.
Be thankful for the opportunity to wear the Bronco jersey.
Play each game and practice with passion and determination.
Conduct ourselves with honesty and integrity.
Treat all volunteers, billets, sponsors and fans with respect and gratitude.
Understand that we are building foundations for future generations with our words and actions.
Always have hope and believe that everything is possible.
Always give more than you take.
Strive for greatness in all areas of life.
