The Winnipeg Minor Basketball Association (WMBA) has announced that nominations are now open for the 2025 Bruce Russell Coach of the Year Award. This prestigious honour recognizes a WMBA coach who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and a commitment to Fair Play while positively impacting their team and community.
The award celebrates a coach who exemplifies the qualities of a great leader, including enthusiasm, support, patience, respect, and strong communication. Each year, the selection committee carefully reviews all nominations, ensuring fairness by removing names and club references before making a decision.
The Bruce Russell Coach of the Year Award was established in partnership with Waverley Heights Community Centre to honour Bruce Russell’s remarkable contributions to basketball coaching. Russell, a passionate advocate for the game, coached in the WMBA during the 1999 season and was known for his commitment to player development and Fair Play. Although he passed away in 2001, his legacy continues to inspire coaches and athletes throughout the community.
Nominations for the award are open until Friday, May 16, 2025, and can be submitted through the WMBA office. The selected recipient will be honoured at the WMBA Annual General Meeting on June 24, 2025, where a member of the Russell family will present the award.
For more information on the nomination process, please contact the WMBA at info@wmba.ca or (204) 925-5774.