The Trenton Golden Hawks organization will have a strong presence at the 2023 World Junior A Challenge in Truro, Nova Scotia.
Hockey Canada has announced that Derek Smith will serve as an Assistant Coach for Team Canada East. Smith was part of the team that won a silver medal in 2022.
Coach Smith expressed his ambitions, saying, “We want to build on our success from last year. Winning a silver medal was an honor, but it’s not our ultimate goal. It’s an incredible achievement, and I’m thrilled for the opportunity. The tournament is short, and we have high expectations; we know what it takes to succeed.”
Smith’s primary responsibility will be working with the defense players for Canada East.
Adding to the Trenton connection is Leah Toffelmire, a Trenton resident and Athletic Therapist for the Golden Hawks. She will be returning for her second year in the same role with Canada East.
Toffelmire expressed her excitement, saying, “It’s an honor to work at such a high level and represent Canada. I’m looking forward to building on last year’s silver medal experience.”
Canada East’s tournament begins on December 10th with a game against Slovakia.
Written by: Noah Lorusso
