By Sarah Tone, Communications Coordinator
Leading up to the 2022 Canada Summer Games, we are featuring the dedicated coaches who spend countless hours giving back to sport.
Let’s get to know Women’s Box Lacrosse Head Coach, Kim Winzoski (pictured, right), and Team Manager, Daina Ojala (pictured, left).
How long have you been coaching this sport?
Daina has been coaching for 8 years and her proudest accomplishment isn’t just one single event or game but the feeling she gets when a player calls her “Coach”. That is a title you work hard to earn.
Kim has been coaching for four years and was motivated to start when her kid’s team needed a coach, so she volunteered. When a new child falls in love with the sport, Kim is at her most proud.
What is your team doing in preparation for the Games?
We are working hard to recruit as many players from around Manitoba as we can. Our squad is working hard despite the many starts and stops with COVID-19. It’s exciting to see the progress we are making and the number of female athletes coming out to learn the game of lacrosse.
What is something you do to stay motivated and connected as a team?
The team is practicing twice a week in preparation for the Games, and Daina is brushing up on her personal development – taking courses and sessions to learn to be a better coach. They’re both open to new ideas from the players so that they can improve together.
What are the team goals for the 2022 Canada Games?
We want to be a strong competitive team at the Canada Games – finishing in the top 3 would be a great accomplishment. Moving forward we want to use success from this season to build a foundation for the program. This will give future generations of female athletes the opportunity to compete in the sport.
Any advice for your athletes going into the Games?
Have fun! But also remember that their hard work and dedication allow them to represent Manitoba and our sport as the first female box lacrosse players in Canada Games history.
