As part of National Girls and Women in Sports Day celebrations, the Greater Toronto Hockey League is shining the spotlight on two members of the League’s staff: Stephanie Hyde and Patty Micolino.

National Girls and Women in Sports Day is an annual day of observance held during the first week of February to acknowledge the accomplishments of female athletes, recognize the influence of sports participation for women and girls, and honor the progress and advocation for equality for women in sports.

STEPHANIE HYDE 
Manager, Development and Community Outreach

Stephanie Hyde has worked at the GTHL for over five years while collecting eight years of experience in the sports industry to date. In hockey, Stephanie has worn many hats, from growing up playing the game, coaching, and officiating. Outside of work, Stephanie can often still be found in the rink at various hockey games, on the golf course, or hiking with her dog Sidney.

Q: What are the main responsibilities of your role with the GTHL? 

A: As Manager of Development and Community Outreach, I organize coach clinics, officiating clinics, player development opportunities, and community outreach initiatives.

Q: Why did you want to work in sport, specifically hockey? 

A: I grew up playing many sports, including hockey. I played competitive hockey and eventually got into officiating and coaching in high school which opened my eyes to the many opportunities within the sports industry. I first started coaching because I wanted to give back and be able to help kids learn not only on-ice skills, but life skills off the ice that they will keep with them as they strive to achieve their goals beyond the game. I learned so many life skills through playing hockey and this is what ultimately motivated me to work in minor hockey.

Q: What led you to your current role with the GTHL? 

A: I went to school for Sport Business Management and interned with the Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF). My experience in hockey overall led me to working at the GTHL.

Q: What is the most fulfilling part about working for the GTHL?

A: Some of my main responsibilities with the GTHL are coordinating hearings, the hiring and organization of Rink Attendants and Timekeepers, and a lot of administration work.

Q: Why did you want to work in sport, specifically hockey?

A: 25 years ago I applied to a job advertisement for the GTHL not knowing a lot about organized hockey. Looking back now, it was the best choice I’ve made – I love hockey. I played ball hockey as kid in school and now I’m proud to be working and helping youth achieve their goals and dreams.

Q: What led you to your current role with the GTHL? 

A: I started with the GTHL as the receptionist and grew into the position I have now.

Q: What is the most fulfilling part about working for the GTHL?

A: Watching young players develop and see how they achieve their dreams using everything they learn from the sport of hockey.