Head Coach – Northwest Express

Head Coach – USPHL Premier

The Northwest Express is seeking a motivated and experienced Head Coach to lead our USPHL Premier team based in Spooner, Wisconsin.

This is an exciting opportunity for a coach who is passionate about player development, building a strong team culture, and preparing athletes to advance to higher levels of junior and collegiate hockey. The successful candidate will play a key leadership role in shaping the identity of our program while working closely with ownership and hockey operations to foster a professional, development-focused environment.

Position Summary

The Head Coach is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the USPHL Premier team, including player development, team performance, recruitment, and daily operations. The successful candidate will lead by example, promote a positive and accountable culture, and ensure that every player is given the opportunity to maximize their potential both on and off the ice.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and lead all on-ice practices, skill development sessions, and team systems with an emphasis on modern hockey concepts, hockey IQ, and individual player growth.

• Coach and manage the team during all games while fostering a competitive, disciplined, and positive environment.

• Develop and maintain a team culture built on accountability, respect, integrity, work ethic, and professionalism.

• Recruit and evaluate prospective players through scouting, camps, showcases, and networking within the hockey community.

• Work collaboratively with ownership, management, billet families, and support staff to provide a first-class junior hockey experience.

• Monitor player progress and provide regular feedback to help athletes reach their individual goals, including advancement to collegiate and higher levels of hockey.

• Communicate effectively with players, families, advisors, and league officials while representing the organization with professionalism.

• Ensure compliance with all USPHL league rules, team policies, and organizational standards.

• Assist with team administration, including practice planning, game preparation, travel coordination, and other hockey operations as required.

• Help promote the Northwest Express within the local community through camps, clinics, appearances, and community engagement initiatives.

Qualifications

• Previous coaching experience at the junior, collegiate, or high-performance level preferred.

• Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and player management skills.

• Demonstrated commitment to player development and creating a positive team culture.

• Experience in player evaluation and recruiting is considered a strong asset.

• USA Hockey Coaching Certification (or willingness to obtain/maintain required certification).

• Successful completion of a criminal background check.

• Passion for mentoring young athletes and helping them achieve their academic and hockey goals.

Working Conditions

• Location: Spooner, Wisconsin

• Compensation: Salary will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and organizational responsibilities.

About Northwest Express The Northwest Express is committed to providing a professional junior hockey environment focused on player development, character, and advancement. Our mission is to help athletes reach the next level while representing our community with pride, professionalism, and a strong work ethic.

Qualified candidates who are passionate about developing young athletes and leading a competitive junior hockey program are encouraged to apply.