![h-coachingequipment h-coachingequipment](https://www.vancouvertbirds.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/694/2020/09/h-coachingequipment.jpg)
Being prepared is the most important part of being a coach, but what exactly does a coach need? We have put together a list that outlines the essential tools and equipment that a coach needs to successfully do their job. This includes the required gear, what we as an association will provide, coaching templates, and any other resources that will help aid in the success of our coaches.
Required Gear
This equipment is necessary in order to coach for a team within PCAHA.
![2018-bauer-ims-50-senior-hockey-helmet-no-cage-bauer-sports-replay-sports-excellence_800x Helmet](https://www.vancouvertbirds.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/694/bb-plugin/cache/2018-bauer-ims-50-senior-hockey-helmet-no-cage-bauer-sports-replay-sports-excellence_800x-300x300-circle.png)
Helmet
Every coach is required to have a helmet while on the ice during practices.
![skst3d_15 skst3d_15](https://www.vancouvertbirds.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/694/bb-plugin/cache/skst3d_15-300x300-circle.jpg)
Skates
In order to participate in practice, a coach must have a pair of skates.
![a6.0jr_3 Gloves](https://www.vancouvertbirds.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/694/bb-plugin/cache/a6.0jr_3-300x300-circle.jpg)
Gloves
Gloves will not only protect your hands during practice, but they will also keep them warm. A pair of hot pockets are also highly reccomended.
![ccm-hockey-stick-super-tacks-as2-pro-grip-sr-icon ccm-hockey-stick-super-tacks-as2-pro-grip-sr-icon](https://www.vancouvertbirds.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/694/bb-plugin/cache/ccm-hockey-stick-super-tacks-as2-pro-grip-sr-icon-1-300x300-circle.jpg)
Stick
Stick allows you to demonstrate drills during practice and can act as a visual learning tool for the players
![ldcor-a-main_l Pylons](https://www.vancouvertbirds.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/694/bb-plugin/cache/ldcor-a-main_l-300x300-circle.jpg)
Pylons
Pylons are essential for organizing drills during practices.
![330110524_99_a_1024x1024 330110524_99_a_1024x1024](https://www.vancouvertbirds.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/694/bb-plugin/cache/330110524_99_a_1024x1024-300x300-circle.jpg)
Coaches Board
The coaches board gives coaches the ability to illustrate drills during practice or plays during games.
![Electronic+Whistle_ Electronic+Whistle_](https://www.vancouvertbirds.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/694/bb-plugin/cache/ElectronicWhistle_-300x300-circle.jpg)
Electronic Whistle
Due to Covid-19, in order to promote coaches and player safety, we are recommending electronic whistles. This will help organize and gain attention from your players.
![Pucks_800x800_grande_5c0c04c8-b15b-4251-ab8a-0b1d072f12cd_grande Pucks](https://www.vancouvertbirds.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/694/bb-plugin/cache/Pucks_800x800_grande_5c0c04c8-b15b-4251-ab8a-0b1d072f12cd_grande-300x300-circle.jpg)
Pucks
Pucks are required for both practice and games. A team must have a set of pucks.
Provided by the Thunderbirds
The Thunderbirds make sure that every coach is equipped with the essentials. This includes:
![Pucks_800x800_grande_5c0c04c8-b15b-4251-ab8a-0b1d072f12cd_grande Pucks](https://www.vancouvertbirds.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/694/bb-plugin/cache/Pucks_800x800_grande_5c0c04c8-b15b-4251-ab8a-0b1d072f12cd_grande-300x300-circle.jpg)
Pucks
![ldcor-a-main_l Pylons](https://www.vancouvertbirds.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/694/bb-plugin/cache/ldcor-a-main_l-300x300-circle.jpg)
Pylons
![330110524_99_a_1024x1024 330110524_99_a_1024x1024](https://www.vancouvertbirds.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/694/bb-plugin/cache/330110524_99_a_1024x1024-300x300-circle.jpg)
Coaches board
![81fDWtdL7XL._AC_SX425_ 81fDWtdL7XL._AC_SX425_](https://www.vancouvertbirds.ca/wp-content/uploads/sites/694/bb-plugin/cache/81fDWtdL7XL._AC_SX425_-296x300-circle.jpg)
First Aid Kit
Coaching Templates
Key Contacts
Jeff Churchill (Coach Ambassador) - coachingamb@vancouvertbirds.ca
Mike Todd (Director of Player & Coach Development - Recreational) - mtodd@vancouvertbirds.ca
Operations - register@vancouvertbirds.ca
New to TBirds Coach Application
If you are interested in coaching with Vancouver Thunderbirds Hockey, this section will provide you the new to TBirds coach application.
How to become a coach
Our hockey programs need dedicated, enthusiastic, and caring coaches. Find out more about how you can join us.
Skills Providers
We are dedicated to providing opportunities for our players to maximize their development and to provide professional development for our coaches.