Lady Cougars new coach
An expected hiring has been confirmed. As in, the three time reigning champion Sault College Cougars of the Division 2 level of the American Collegiate Hockey Association have officially announced Megan Dubas as the new head coach of the wildly successful varsity women’s hockey team.
A lifelong member of the Sault Ste. Marie hockey community, Dubas grew up playing the game locally, suiting up for rep teams throughout her playing career.
To be sure, hockey runs deep in the Dubas family.
Megan’s grandfather, Walter, coached the Soo Greyhounds while they were members of the Northern Ontario Hockey Association. Her father, Mark, spent many winters coaching in the community, including considerable time alongside venerable head coach Mike Hall with the Soo North Stars of the Great North Under 18 Hockey League. And her brother, Kyle Dubas, has made his mark in the hockey world — from his early days as a scout and player agent, to serving as general manager of the Soo Greyhounds of the Ontario Hockey League, GM of the Toronto Marlies of the American Hockey League, assistant general manager and then GM of the Toronto Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League, and currently as the president of hockey operations and GM of the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins.
“I grew up in a rink — it was part of who we are as a family,” reflected Dubas after being elevated to head coach of the Lady Cougars of Sault College. “I have my family to thank for making this sport so special to me, and for guiding me through what it takes to be a smart, thoughtful coach.”
In addition to her hockey roots, Dubas brings valuable professional experience to her new role. A graduate of Brock University with a degree in Sport Management, she spent eight seasons with the OHL Soo Greyhounds (2009 to 2017) in a variety of capacities, including marketing, sales, community relations, and ultimately as director of game day operations and merchandising. Through those years, she also gained hands on exposure to hockey operations, further shaping her understanding of the game at a high level.
Dubas had served as an assistant coach with the Lady Cougars for the past three seasons under recently retired head coach Brianne Shunock, and said she is ready to carry forward the program’s success.
“The dynamics won’t change. We are not going to tear down a well oiled, successful machine,” Dubas relayed. “I do know I have big shoes to fill, but I am beyond thankful that I was able to learn from Brianne for the past three seasons. She has taught me what it takes for this team to have continued success and how to create a team first environment. I am grateful to have the support of our staff, players, and athletic department as I transition into this new role, and I am excited to get things started at our spring camp.”
Sault College athletics director Paul Orazietti relayed a thorough message on the promotion of Dubas from assistant to head coach.
“Over the past few seasons, Megan has played an integral role in our championship successes as an assistant coach, bringing passion, dedication, and a deep understanding of the game to our bench. Her leadership and commitment to excellence make her the perfect choice to carry forward the strong legacy built by Coach Shunock. We are beyond excited and thrilled for what is ahead and we are proud to have Megan leading the charge into this next chapter of Lady Cougars hockey.”
Congratulations Megan, good to see the Dubas hockey tradition of success continuing. Best of health and success.
(especially with the goalie coach!!!)