Get ready to be inspired by our accomplished and passionate Battleford AAA Sharks hockey team, dedicated to empowering young women in their pursuit of excellence in hockey.
Our dynamic development philosophy centers around fostering a positive learning environment. We believe in the powerful principles of – competence, confidence, connection, character, and caring. Our unwavering commitment is to instill these values in our players, fueling their potential as athletes and young women.
With Battlefords AAA Sharks, you have the extraordinary chance to be part of our mission – supporting the development and success of these incredibly talented young athletes. By partnering with us, you’ll make a lasting impact on the future of female hockey while gaining unparalleled exposure to our vibrant and dedicated community.
Billet Homes Needed
Billet families play a vital role for our players, making them feel welcome and at-home while they are playing hockey in The Battlefords. We pride ourselves on providing safe and supportive homes to place our players.
Some of the benefits of being a billet family:
- Monthly payment to help offset costs
- Rewarding experience and a way to give back to our community
- Season passes to all regular season home games
- Billet players set a positive example of work-ethic and team dedication for your own children
- Lifelong relationships that last well beyond the hockey season
- The opportunity to make the transition to The Battlefords for our players as smooth as possible
Join our Sharks Family today to help create wonderful, lasting relationships. If you have any questions or are interested in being a billet family for future seasons, please contact our Billet Coordinators: Jennifer & Erik Marcoux at moc.liamg@gnitellibskrahsaaa
“We opened our home to two wonderful girls who quickly became part of our family. They were so involved with us and our three young children! The team makes sure that you know you are part of the Sharks family and it is an experience that you will not regret!” -Jordan & Nicole
“Over the last few years, we have had the opportunity to billet some amazing, polite, motivated individuals who are both respectful and fun. Interestingly enough, we are talking about teenagers!” -Patrick & Andrea
AAA Sharks extend head coach Nolan Horbach
by Marty Martinson | battlefordsNOW.com
The Battlefords AAA Sharks have announced the team has agreed to an extension with head coach Nolan Horbach that will see him return behind the bench with the black and teal next season.
Currently in his first year manning the helm as coach of the local female U18 team, the Sharks’ program has seen a rejuvenation this season under Horbach’s leadership. The group improved from a tough last couple of years that saw the squad post just seven wins over their last two seasons, to now a 6-12-0-3 record this year. They sit fifth overall in the Saskatchewan Female U18 AAA standings.
Horbach said the decision to re-up with the Sharks was a “no-brainer,” as he believes this season is just the tip of the iceberg of what’s possible for the team moving forward.
“I knew I wanted to be part of this development process, and I understood development takes time,” Horbach said. “I’m committed to the group here and those that are interested in being a Shark, and it was a no-brainer for me.”
Director and treasurer with the Sharks, Jeanne Gilchrist said the team is extremely happy to have Horbach return, to continue to build on what he’s started.
“He’s been such a good fit with the programming and his belief and philosophy in player development,” Gilchrist said; adding that it’s a philosophy that extends beyond just the on-ice product.
“He [cares about] the whole person, not just on the ice, but the whole player and how they fit with school and billeting, he’s very insightful about all of those things.”
It’s a sentiment shared by the Sharks’ players as well. Team captain, Greir Slabaida is the lone returnee on the roster from a season ago, and spoke to Horbach’s impact this year, both on the group as a whole and her own game.
“He is a great and knowledgeable coach who connects with all of his players on a personal level,” Slabaida said. “He really puts our mental health first and gives us tools to help us out.”
“Giving me the opportunity to be team captain has helped me become more vocal, and a leader on and off the ice. He’s taught me to lead by example, especially with this young group of girls, and the knowledge he brings to every practice and game means we’re always learning new things and developing into better people and players.”
The Sharks were recognized for their progress earlier this season earning an invitation to the prestigious Mandi Schwartz Memorial Tournament in Wilcox, Sask., the largest female U18 AAA hockey tournament in Western Canada.
Our Vision Statement
Battlefords AAA Sharks are dedicated to helping enthusiastic and competitive young women achieve the highest level of hockey. We provide the opportunity, coaching and positive team environment for young hockey players to develop into outstanding young women.