Legacy of Brianne Shunock
What a truly remarkable and inspiring run of success this has been. After guiding the Sault College Cougars women’s hockey program through one of the most dominant stretches in Division 2, American Collegiate Hockey Association history, head coach Brianne Shunock has officially announced her retirement.
Shunock’s retirement comes just a few weeks after the Cougars captured their third consecutive ACHA D2 National Championship, putting an exclamation point on a simply spectacular coaching career.
Shunock’s journey with Sault College began in 2019 when she joined the program as an assistant coach. Her leadership and insight were quickly recognized, and she was promoted to head coach ahead of the ’21-22 season.
Over the next four years, Shunock led the Lady Cougars to unprecedented success, transforming the program into a national powerhouse and cultivating a winning culture that inspired athletes, fans, coaches, and just as importantly, the youth female hockey scene in Sault Ste. Marie.
During her tenure as head coach, Shunock amassed an incredible regular-season record of 78-8-3, including a perfect 26-0-0 campaign in ’22-23 — an accomplishment rarely seen at any level of hockey. Her teams consistently combined elite skill with an unmatched work ethic, setting a new standard for excellence within the ACHA women’s hockey ranks.
Sault College’s national title wins in 2023, 2024, and 2025 weren’t just victories — rather, they were statements. Under Shunock’s guidance, the team dominated both sides of the puck, boasting one of the top scoring offenses and most effective defences in the ACHA. But beyond the numbers, her ability to develop talent and instill a championship mindset became her trademark.
While the trophies and accolades tell part of the story, Shunock’s impact ran much deeper.
“Many would think the answer would be winning our first National Championship,” Shunock said when asked about her favourite coaching memory. “But the truth is, while I watched our players grow, they also watched me do the same. Whether it was getting married, being pregnant, or becoming a mom, the team watched the journey, and I am so proud I got to share it with them.
“Sports are a part of your life, but they aren’t the full picture, and that’s what kept me motivated throughout the hard days as a new coach or mother. The players look up to you for guidance and mentorship, so I tried to be that person for them in all areas of life,” Shunock added.
That philosophy translated directly into the culture she built — a foundation rooted in character, respect, and unity.
“I’m most proud of the program we’ve built over the past four years, with a passionate staff and dedicated athletes,” Shunock relayed. “We have created a winning culture that focuses on respect, character, and family. It’s not easy to be a part of our program, because we require you to challenge yourself to be a better person overall.
“Players that have bought into this culture are successful not only on the ice, but in their academics, careers, and relationships. When you focus on developing the whole person, you get more out of the athlete. Our success was built off this model and has proved to be true. I have seen players change before my eyes, which is special and something that I will never take for granted.”
Players and staff alike speak highly of Shunock’s leadership style, describing her as a coach who could be both demanding and deeply supportive. She was known for her coaching philosophy, but just as importantly, for her ability to connect with players on a personal level, helping them build confidence and resilience on and off the ice.
“Bri has been my coach since I first arrived four years ago, and I truly wouldn’t be the player or person I am today without her,” said Cougars top line forward Emma Lee. “I have learned so much from her, not just about hockey, but about discipline, teamwork, and resilience. I feel incredibly lucky to have been coached by someone who cares so deeply and gives so much to her players.”
Shunock’s retirement leaves big skates to fill, but she departs with the confidence that the foundation she built will continue to support future success. The program is expected to announce a new head coach in the coming weeks, but Shunock’s fingerprints on the Cougars’ culture will most likely remain long after her final whistle.
Shunock reflected on her accomplishments, of which there are many.
“It is hard to close this chapter. But I know that we have given players an experience they will remember for the rest of their lives, and share with friendships they’ve made through the program,” she said.
Accolades extend beyond what is accomplished within the ACHA for Shunock and the Lady Cougars.
“We’ve also strengthened the local hockey community for female athletes and have given them local players to look up to and strive to be. When you’ve been able to accomplish this type of success, you can exhale and know that you did what you set out to do,” she noted, with pride.
As Sault College reflects on the Shunock era — highlighted by three national titles, an undefeated season and nearly 80 wins in just three year — her legacy is clear.
To be sure, said legacy is one of leadership, excellence, and history making achievement.
Brianne Shunock didn’t just coach the Lady Cougars — she built an amazing dynasty.
All the accolades are well deserved for this Coach, Mother and Mentor. Brianne’s accomplishments at Sault College will always be remembered with great pride.
Congratulations Brianne and continued health and success for you and your family in the future.