Derek Schoenmakers
Groups
About
After playing four years in the OHL, and four years at the Canadian University level, and professionally in Europe, I transitioned to coaching and have had a passion for it ever since.
I began coaching at the U18 AAA level as an associate coach in Kitchener, Ontario, before becoming a head coach at the U15 & U16AAA levels in Waterloo, Ontario. In 2025, I became the Head of Hockey Development for the Ottawa Senators Hockey Programs, leading all on-ice development at the three Sensplex facilities. Responsibilites include anywhere from Learn to Skate Programs to U18AAA, with on-ice time geared toward Tier-1 athletes. In addition, currently serving as Associate Coach for the Jr. A Brockville Braves.
Coaching Certifications
High Performance 1
Hockey Canada
2024-05-25
Development 1
Hockey Canada
2021-08-19
Coaching Experiences
Associate Coach
Brockville Braves
2026-07-01 - Present
Head of Hockey Development
Ottawa Senators Hockey Programs
2025-03-20 - Present
U15AAA Head Coach
Waterloo Wolves
2024-09-01 - 2025-04-30
U16AAA Head Coach
Waterloo Wolves
2023-09-01 - 2024-04-30
U18AAA Assistant Coach
Kitchener Jr. Rangers
2020-01-01 - 2023-04-30
Formal Education
B.A. Applied Economics
Wilfrid Laurier University
2013-09-01 - 2018-05-01
Psychology (Minor)
Wilfrid Laurier University
2013-09-01 - 2018-09-01
7 Steps from Basic Skills to Smooth Power
Master powerful skating techniques that will make your players faster with the puck than without it. Daniel Broberg's comprehensive skating course reveals seven essential steps to develop game-changing edge control and smooth power on the ice.
At-Home Puck Skills
Master essential puck skills structured drills at home in the off-season or as an enhancement to your in-season training.
Building the Foundation of Skating
Master essential skating techniques from Olympic champion Victor Kraatz to enhance your coaching skills and improve your players' performance on the ice.
Mastering Pro Shot Selection & Goal Scoring
Brandon Naurato, University of Michigan Head Coach, breaks down the mechanics, tactics, and mental cues behind elite-level scoring.
Mastering the Fundamentals of Shooting
Unlock your shooting potential with proven techniques from NHL coach Tim Turk. Enhance your skills through focused lessons on hand and body position for powerful, accurate shots.
Minor Hockey Coaching Foundations
Kick off your best hockey season yet with this essential guide for coaches and parents. Plan, lead, and deliver an amazing experience for young players and teams. And make sure the coach has fun, too!
Summer Snipe School: At Home Goal Scoring
Goals in the off-season lead to goals in the real season! Boost your offensive skills this summer with proven goal scoring and puck handling techniques, all from the comfort of your driveway, garage, or an outdoor rink!
The Complete Goalie Coach Toolkit
Join Kevin Swanson and GDI goaltending for a special course designed to cover every step in your goaltenders' development during the regular season or during offseason training.
The Elite Release: Building a Game-Ready Shot
This course is next-level shooting from Tim Turk. Tighten up the elements of shooting that might be holding you back, learn to trust your release, and transform solid mechanics into a shot that works when the pressure is on.
Transformational Coaching
Elevate your coaching by mastering connection, communication, and character development to foster athlete growth and success.
U11 Competitive Minor Hockey Curriculum
Whether you're stepping behind the bench for the first time or you're a seasoned minor hockey coach gearing up for another season, The Competitive Curriculum Series is your all-in-one toolkit to start strong and stay on track.
U6 Minor Hockey Curriculum
Unlock the fundamentals of U6 hockey with this curriculum guide. Equip young players with essential skills, teamwork, and fun to foster a lifelong love for the sport.
U7 Minor Hockey Curriculum
Whether you're stepping behind the bench for the first time or you're a seasoned minor hockey coach gearing up for another season, The Competitive Curriculum Series is your all-in-one toolkit to start strong and stay on track.
U8 Minor Hockey Curriculum
Whether you're stepping behind the bench for the first time or you're a seasoned minor hockey coach gearing up for another season, The Competitive Curriculum Series is your all-in-one toolkit to start strong and stay on track.
U9 Minor Hockey Curriculum
Whether you're stepping behind the bench for the first time or you're a seasoned minor hockey coach gearing up for another season, The Competitive Curriculum Series is your all-in-one toolkit to start strong and stay on track.