Willie Desjardins, head coach of the Medicine Hat Tigers, has been named a finalist for the prestigious Dunc McCallum Memorial Trophy, awarded to the WHL鈥檚 Coach of the Year. In his 15th season, Desjardins led the Tigers to a 50-10-5-3 record, securing the Central Division title and boasting the highest-scoring offense in the league. The other finalists include Ryan McDonald of the Prince Albert Raiders and Dustin Friesen of the Calgary Hitmen for the Eastern Conference, alongside Steve Hamilton, Mark Lamb, and Fred Harbinson in the Western Conference. The winners of the WHL Awards will be announced between April 21 and May 6, 2026.

By the Numbers
  • Desjardins' Tigers scored 348 goals this season, averaging 5.12 goals per game.
  • The Tigers led the WHL with a power play conversion rate of 32.2%.
State of Play
  • Desjardins is in his seventh consecutive season with the Tigers.
  • The WHL Awards ceremony is upcoming, with finalists being evaluated by the league鈥檚 General Managers.
What's Next

The upcoming WHL Awards will determine the Coach of the Year, with Desjardins and other finalists eagerly waiting for the results. The Tigers aim to leverage their impressive season performance in the playoffs ahead.

Bottom Line

Desjardins' recognition as a finalist underscores his impactful coaching and the Tigers' exceptional season, setting a strong precedent for the playoffs and reinforcing the importance of strategic leadership in junior hockey.