Presented to the Ottawa Ice Lightning Coaching Staff in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the Ottawa Ice Lightning Hockey Club community. Through their dedication, leadership, and commitment to advancing both the sport of hockey and community engagement, they have not only helped develop young athletes but also fostered a culture of teamwork, inclusion, and excellence. Their efforts have made a lasting impact on the lives of players and families, helping to build a strong, supportive, and vibrant hockey community. They are truly role models for the next generation, inspiring young athletes through their character, sportsmanship, and commitment to giving back to the community.
Community Leadership award 2024 (October 15th, 2024)
A special acknowledgment goes to Daniel Nie (Queens University Health Science). Daniel’s tenure with OILHC has been marked by significant growth and development. Starting as an on-ice helper at age of 8 in 2014, Daniel has been with the club every year, progressing to Head Coach in 2021 and Coach Advisor in 2024. Throughout this journey, Daniel has consistently fostered a positive and inclusive environment for all players, parents, and coaches. His effective communication skills and ability to build strong, trusting relationships have played a pivotal role in creating a culture where young athletes feel comfortable and motivated to perform at their best.
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A special acknowledgment goes to Simon Yang (University of Ottawa Biomedical Science), an experienced Junior B hockey player who joined the Ice Lightning in 2018. Simon has demonstrated exceptional leadership, commitment, and ability in his role as Head Coach and Coach Advisor of the Ottawa Ice Lightning Hockey Club, further enhancing the success and development of the club and its members.
Community Leadership award 2025 (October 15th, 2025)
A special acknowledgment goes to Owen Chen (Gr. 12, Merivale High School). Owen has been a part of Ice Lightning for nearly a decade, beginning as a player and progressing through roles as an on-ice helper, assistant coach, and now head coach for past two years. His journey reflects a deep belief in hockey’s power to build strong, healthy communities.
The leadership skills he developed with Ice Lightning have also shaped his work with Spark Youth Robotics Club, helping him grow while expanding community outreach. He remains committed to inspiring the next generation to find the same passion for hockey that has shaped his own path.
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A special acknowledgment goes to Justin Yuan (Gr. 12, Merivale High School). Justin has been a member of the Ottawa Ice Lightning Hockey Club for ten years, beginning as a young player. His passion for hockey led him to become an on-ice helper during summer training sessions, later advancing to assistant coach and serving as head coach for the past two years.
Through this progression, Justin has developed strong leadership and coaching skills. He studied drill videos from Hockey Canada and prepared practice plans weekly for OILHC training seasons. He has also volunteered four times as an on-ice assistant instructor for the KMHA-hosted NHL First Shift program. In 2024, he independently led a drill station during the KMHA U11 sort-out—demonstrating how far his skills have grown through his involvement with OILHC. He has contributed to his community by sharing his passion for hockey and helping younger players develop their skills.
