We sit down with U11 "B" Head Coach Samantha Belfry for a little Q&A.
1. Can you tell us about your background in hockey, both as a player and a coach?
I grew up playing hockey and ball hockey in Penetang. I later played girls hockey, travelling far and wide to compete. I had many dedicated coaches who pushed me to develop my skills and love for the game. As a player, I experienced firsthand the impact of strong coaching and a positive team culture—something that has stuck with me throughout my coaching journey, and why I still play hockey.
When my children started playing (I have 3 young athletes in hockey), I knew I wanted to be involved and give back to the sport that has been a huge part of my life. I started coaching at the U7 level and quickly realized how rewarding it is to help young athletes grow. Over the years, I have coached teams from U7 to U18. Last season, I coached the Midland U9MD team, and we placed first in our pool. Coaching has allowed me to not only share my passion for hockey but also help young athletes build confidence, develop their skills, and learn the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. I love watching players challenge themselves, improve, and most importantly—have fun while competing.
2. What is your overall coaching philosophy, and what values are most important to you as a coach?
My coaching philosophy is built on development, confidence, and competitiveness. I believe in creating a positive, structured environment where players feel supported and challenged. Skill development is at the core of everything we do. I want my players to understand that mistakes are part of the process and that learning from them is what makes great athletes. My goal is to instill the work ethic, accountability, and resilience that will benefit them not just in hockey, but in life. Put the work in, and nothing can stop you.
3. What style of hockey do you coach, and what can players expect in terms of systems and game strategy?
I emphasize a high-tempo, dynamic style of hockey that challenges players to think fast, make smart decisions, and adapt to evolving situations on the ice. Creativity is encouraged—I want players to be confident reading the game and making plays under pressure. Practices will focus on the core fundamental skills – and getting the athletes to execute these at game speed.
Although I firmly believe defence wins games, you need to provide a solid foundation in both ends of the ice, balancing structured defensive play, quick transitions, and offensive flexibility. Every player brings a unique skill set, and my goal is to help them maximize their strengths while contributing to the team’s overall success. I encourage players to recognize opportunities on the ice and explore different approaches to the game. When they take ownership of an idea, it becomes a powerful motivator. I strive to create an environment where they feel confident experimenting, problem-solving, and applying what they’ve learned in real-time.
Above all, I want players to build confidence. This means stepping outside their comfort zones, taking calculated risks, and recognizing that all outcomes, win, loss or tie, are part of growth. Whether it’s executing a new move, reading the play differently, or battling hard in the corners, every moment is an opportunity to develop, improve, and compete – and I will provide them opportunities to do so.
4. What are you most looking forward to in the upcoming season?
I’m excited to work with a diverse group of players and help them grow over the course of the season. Watching players develop their skills, build confidence, and become stronger teammates is always the best part of coaching.
I’m also looking forward to fostering a competitive team culture—one where players push themselves and each other to improve every day. There’s nothing better than seeing a team come together, work hard, and achieve their goals.
5. Why should players want to be part of the Islanders next season? What makes this team and program special?
The Islanders program is all about development, competition, and opportunity. By bringing together players and administrators from across the region, we’re able to create strong teams that push each other to be better. They’re focused on high-level coaching, structured development, and providing the best possible experience for our athletes.
Being part of this organization means being part of a culture that values hard work, growth, and a love for the game. Players will get the chance to develop their skills in a competitive environment while building lasting friendships and memories – close to home. Growing up I had to travel to compete – having this opportunity close to home is a huge benefit for our young athletes and their families.
6. Is there anything else you’d like players and families to know about you or the upcoming season?
I’m committed to helping every player reach their potential. As much as I encourage my athletes to find the positive in every situation – I will always do the same. I hold myself to the same standards I expect of my players – be committed, be positive, and embrace the learning opportunities. This season will be about hard work, fun, and growth—both individually and as a team. I’m looking forward to getting started and can’t wait to see what this group can accomplish together.