When the 2025-26 American Collegiate Hockey Association season kicks off in the fall, Sault College's women's hockey team will have a new head coach.
In a release issued Thursday, the College announced that Brianne Shunock is retiring as the coach of the women's hockey program.
“Many would think the answer would be winning our first national championship,” Shunock said in a release.
“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'm 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 joined the coaching staff in 2019 as an assistant coach and was promoted to head coach prior to the 2021-22 season.
In her four seasons as head coach, Sault College advanced to the ACHA Division II National Championship tournament each time.
After going 2-1 in round robin play in 2022, narrowly missing out on playing in the final four, Sault College proceeded to capture the national championship each of the next three seasons, including their recent title win over Assiniboine weeks ago.
"I'm most proud of the program we've built over the past four years, with a passionate staff and dedicated athletes," Shunock shared.
"We've 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've seen players change before my eyes, which is special and something I'll never take for granted."
Sault College went 78-8-3 during Shunock's tenure as head coach.
"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 forward Emma Lee in the release.
"I’ve 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.”
This echoes a sentiment shared by many who walk the halls at Sault College.