DAN KONOPSKI -HNO COACH OF THE YEAR

 
Congratulations to Dan Konopski for winning the 2015 Jim Dolph Coach of the Year Award.  KC is very happy to have Dan returning next season to coach a team in our Pee Wee A program.

Dan has coached at KC Minor Hockey (KC) for six years; however that does not begin to describe his commitment to the program and the multiple teams/players he has impacted over that time.  In the six years Dan has coached at KC, he has been a part of twelve teams including one season where he coached IP 1, Novice (head coach), and Atom (head coach).  Dan’s knowledge and understanding of hockey is one I hope more players and parents have an opportunity to experience.  In the 2014-15 season Dan is in his final season of IP 1 and continues to coach a Novice team.
 
KC has been fortunate to have a Coach Konopski in our organization as he remains committed to the most important development years, that being IP1 and Novice.  Dan has been a part of six IP 1 seasons with approximately 65 players per season and five years in Novice.  Dan’s ability and understanding of the importance of developing the core skills required to play the game of hockey has been a huge asset.  Dan ensures all his players receive equal opportunity, attention and instruction regardless of his or her age or ability.  Dan will adapt his practice plans or an individual drill to meet the needs and abilities of his players and most importantly, does so in a fun environment, which encourages player retention.   
 
With all of the experience described above, Coach Konopski has always been able to ice competitive teams and are often challenging for championships and on many occasions his teams have earned gold medals.  Regardless of the skills or abilities of Dan’s team, he is able to get the most out of his players and there is a definite progression in the skills and abilities of ALL of his players throughout the season. 
 
Chris Wiseman
KC Minor Hockey
President