TORONTO – The Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) announced Monday the names of the five individuals that have been selected finalists for the 2025-26 Darcy Haugan/Mark Cross Memorial Award, presented by the NHL Coaches’ Association (NHLCA), emblematic of CJHL Coach of the Year.
Presented annually by the CJHL and NHLCA, this distinguished honour serves in memory of Humboldt Broncos (SJHL) head coach Darcy Haugan and assistant Mark Cross, who were among those who sadly lost their lives following the tragic events of April 6, 2018.
Each of the finalists were determined through a voting process completed by the CJHL’s nine-member leagues, for their respective efforts during the regular season.
Dwight Hirst, Niverville Nighthawks (MJHL): Coming off a strong campaign last year, Hirst picked up where he left off and coached the Nighthawks to a 103-point finish this season in the league. … Earned MJHL Coach of the Year honours. … Entering his third season as bench boss of the Nighthawks, Hirst led the organization to their best finish in franchise history, posting a record of 51-6-1-0 to lead the MJHL standings all season. … The Nighthawks were the most disciplined team in the MJHL, from start to finish, ending the season with a league low 693 penalty minutes. … Guided the Nighthawks to a league-best power play in the MJHL at 31.5% while the penalty kill was third at 85.1%. … The Nighthawks finished at No. 2 overall in the final CJHL Top 20 Rankings, fuelled by Gatorade. P
