2023 On Ice Instructor
Apprenticeship Award
Ern Rideout Memorial
Award Recipient:
Faith Greenough
Published September 30, 2024
This award was created in memory of Ern Rideout.
Ern Rideout was the first Tucker Hockey on ice assistant instructor. He began in 1999, the inaugural year of Tucker Hockey, until 2007 to assist Coach Rex with a variety of adult & minor on ice hockey programs. As well, from 2006 until 2014, Ern was involved as a business consultant for Tucker Hockey.
For 15 years, Ern was a major contributor to the early success and growth of Tucker Hockey on and off the ice. He will be remembered for his strong character, integrity, dedication, amicable personal traits and loyal friendship.
Ern Rideout
Since 2016, this Tucker Hockey Award has been issued each year to the on-ice apprenticeship instructor who exhibits a strong potential to be a quality on ice assistant instructor within the Tucker Hockey Team, as well as improved personal growth and development.
Coach Rex selected Faith Greenough as the
2023 Ern Rideout Memorial Award –
On Ice Instructor Apprenticeship Recipient.
Congratulations Faith!
Here is more about Faith:
- Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Faith Greenough, I am currently a nursing student hoping to pursue a specialty in the Emergency Department. I have two younger brothers who are twins, and I have a St. Bernard/Poodle dog named Maggie! Growing up I played elite level hockey as a left-handed, centreman/winger and was able to lead some of my teams. I was fortunate enough to participate in the Alberta Challenge Cup, Alberta Prospects and the Alberta Winter Games as an assistant captain where we ended up finishing first. I then moved to Penticton in grade 10 during my first-year midget to play for the Okanagan Hockey Academy’s U18 female prep team. In my second-year midget I played for the AAA St. Albert Slash and then during my third year I went to Red Deer to play for the AAA Sutter Fund Chiefs… Bit of a suitcase, I know!
- Tell us a little about your interest in the sport of hockey.
I started playing hockey right out of the gates at a very young age playing on girls and all boys teams. Obviously getting to see some of my best friends at the rink everyday was amazing (and probably the best part), but I became extremely invested in the sport after getting to watch the women’s Canadian team play. I remember being so fascinated by them and aspiring to be like them one day!
- What’s the best part about hockey for you?
The best part of hockey for me is the environment/atmosphere within the sport and creating not only a team but a family. Some of my best memories are getting to blast music in the dressing room after a big nail-biting win or being able to pick each other up after a really bad loss. I was fortunate enough to meet some of my best friends through hockey.
- How has hockey influenced your life?
Hockey has taught me so many cliche life lessons like perseverance, accountability and leadership. However, I truly believe that the biggest influence hockey had on me was forcing me to understand what “winning and losing” truly means. When you’re young, you aren’t able to see that a game of hockey is like a game of life, you can go through so many ups and downs, unexpected bumps and turns, but it challenges you to change your perspective regardless of the outcome. Not everything needs to be a negative. For example, instead of being mad you didn’t get a goal, appreciate that you back checked the hardest. Just like in life, when something negative happens it’s so important to try to view it in a bit of light.
- When and how did you initially get involved with Tucker Hockey?
I started with Tucker Hockey in the fall of 2022 after deciding to hang up the equipment and start school. Going back to school and being a student, I obviously needed a job, but I wanted to do something that was rewarding and an escape from the stress… So, I decided to reach out and apply to be a coach for Tucker Hockey and the rest was history!
- What is the most enjoyable part of coaching/teaching players?
The most enjoyable part of coaching are the contagious smiles and being able to see the growth each player has made overtime. It makes me feel such pride when players work hard at something, and it begins to show. Additionally, having the opportunity to show young girls that being female doesn’t limit their potential, and that negative remarks shouldn’t affect their determination, instead be used as motivation. My goal is to positively influence, guide and teach players within the community, like young girls who remind me of my younger self, how to be the best they can be.
- What is your favourite age group and skill level?
I enjoy all ages, but my favourite group is the elite u13-18’s. Although they can be challenging at times, I respect that they are on the ice for a purpose. They are also willing to take into consideration and apply feedback received. I also enjoy the atmosphere on the ice as it is very competitive but also supportive and encouraging.
- What is your favourite skating drill?
Absolutely! One of my favorites is the “Figure 8 Drill.” It helps with agility and edge control, which are essential for effective skating. I also love the “V-Start Drills” for developing explosive movement and quick transitions from stationary to moving. Both drills are fun and really get the players engaged while focusing on their skating technique.
- Being a Tucker Hockey Instructor – what has the “Tucker Hockey Way” / being a part of the on-ice instructional team taught you?
The “Tucker Hockey Way” emphasizes not just skill development, but also building confidence and teamwork. Being part of this instructional team has taught me how crucial it is to create a supportive environment where young players can thrive. I’ve learned that encouraging girls to embrace their individuality while developing their skills is key to fostering a lifelong love for the game.
- What advice would you like to offer hockey coaches, parents, and players about the importance of skating, and why they should invest the time and money towards quality skating instruction?
Investing in skating instruction is one of the best decisions anyone involved in hockey can make. Skating is the foundation of the game — everything else builds on that. Coaches and parents should encourage players to focus on skating skills early, as they can dramatically improve performance. Quality instruction not only enhances technique but also builds confidence, which is vital for young athletes, especially girls, who might feel intimidated in a male-dominated sport.
- What other things interest you, outside hockey?
Outside of hockey, I’m passionate about mentoring and empowering young girls in sports and life. I love my educational field of nursing which takes up a lot of my time. In my free time I enjoy spending time outdoors, whether it’s on an ODR in the winter, playing a round of golf, or just enjoying nature while spending time with some friends. I also love travelling, I backpacked Europe for 3 months a year ago and I hope to do something similar again. These experiences help me bring a broader perspective to my coaching and the importance of balance in life!
Editor’s Note:
Thank you, Faith, for completing a Tucker Hockey On Ice Instructor Profile.
You have been a great addition to the Tucker Hockey Team over the last 2 years. Your outgoing personality generates great vibes within the Tucker Hockey Team. Your smile, enthusiasm and passion for the game at the rink truly inspires our youth participants of all ages. Yes, even the older U18 participants!
We have valued your on-ice contributions within our 3 on 3 program and various skills development programs.
Good luck with your nursing profession endeavors. I know you will do well in the medical field!
Hope to see you on the ice again this Spring!
Best wishes. Take Care.
~ Coach Rex