Niverville Nighthawks head coach Dwight Hirst has been named a finalist for the national Coach of the Year award, marking a high point in a historic season for the team. The Canadian Junior Hockey League announced on May 4, 2026, that Hirst is one of five coaches up for the Darcy Haugan/Mark Cross Memorial Award, which is presented by the NHL Coaches’ Association.
Hirst, who is in his third season with the Nighthawks, led the team to their first-ever Turnbull Cup championship this past April after a dominant 12-1 playoff run. During the regular season, he guided the squad to a 51-6-1-0 record and a 103-point finish, ensuring the team remained at the top of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League standings throughout the year. The team also earned recognition as the most disciplined group in the league, finishing with the fewest penalty minutes while maintaining top-tier power play and penalty kill statistics.
This national recognition follows Hirst’s selection as the Manitoba Junior Hockey League Coach of the Year this past March. The Nighthawks are currently in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, for the 2026 Centennial Cup, where they have started the tournament with two wins. The team holds a 2-0 record after a 5-4 overtime victory against the host Summerside Western Capitals and a 7-2 win over the Thunder Bay North Stars.
Hirst is joined in the national finalist group by coaches from leagues in Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta. The winner of the award will be recognized for their leadership and contribution to their respective teams and communities.
