Belgian ice hockey is building its future by investing in the people behind the bench. Sixty-four coaches gathered in Mechelen to begin official IIHF certification at LTP, Coach Level 1 and Coach Level 2. But this weekend represented something bigger: a long-term plan to train Belgian course instructors, retain knowledge within the country and support coaches throughout the season. Following this year’s video coach and equipment manager education, the RBIHF can also confirm a new Coach Level 3 course as its national development pathway continues to grow stronger each season.
An official IIHF pathway delivered in Belgium
The kick-off weekend on 12 and 13 September marked the official start of the season-long RBIHF National Coach Certification Programme. This season, 64 participants enrolled to work towards their individual coaching certificate at LTP, Coach Level 1 or Coach Level 2.
The coaching levels delivered by the RBIHF are official course levels within the IIHF coach education pathway. They are not separate or informal courses created solely for Belgian ice hockey.
By organising these programmes nationally, the RBIHF gives coaches access to structured IIHF education in Belgium while continuing to improve coaching standards across our clubs and national programmes.
Two intensive days of theory and practice
During two full days in Mechelen, participants combined classroom learning, group discussions and practical sessions. They were encouraged to exchange experiences, explore new ideas and immediately apply their developing knowledge.
International coaches were invited to teach the Coach Level 1 and Coach Level 2 groups, bringing valuable experience and different perspectives to the programme.
Kelly Verbinnen led the LTP, or Learn to Play, course for the first time. After successfully completing her IIHF training in Budapest last year, she was ready to pass on her knowledge to the coaches responsible for introducing our youngest players to ice hockey.
The new certification process was also presented by Belgian National Development Manager Ben Bauten. He explained the structure of the pathway, the requirements connected to each level and what participants can expect during the remainder of the season.
Developing knowledge that stays in Belgium
The RBIHF is placing increased emphasis on developing Belgian coaches and specialists who can become national course instructors.
Kelly Verbinnen’s progression from participating in IIHF training in Budapest to leading an LTP course in Belgium is a clear example of this approach. A similar principle was applied through the video coach education organised earlier this season, helping to develop Belgian specialists who can share their knowledge with coaches and teams across the country.
Building this national expertise will make coach education in Belgium more sustainable. It will bring more knowledge into the country, keep that knowledge available within Belgian ice hockey and create a stronger network of educators who understand the daily realities of our clubs.
International coaches will continue to play an important role within the programme. In the future, however, their expertise can increasingly be used for specialised subjects, while trained Belgian instructors provide the foundations of the national certification pathway.
This approach will also allow the RBIHF to offer coaches better follow-up and support throughout the season. Coach development should not end when the kick-off weekend finishes. Participants must be able to ask questions, receive guidance and continue developing as they apply their knowledge within their clubs.
A visible commitment from the federation
RBIHF President Marc Verlinden followed the programme throughout the weekend, supporting the organisation and engaging with participants and instructors.
This involvement reflects the importance the federation places on coach education. Developing knowledgeable and confident coaches is not simply an organisational responsibility; it is a strategic investment in the quality, safety and long-term future of Belgian ice hockey.
New Coach Level 3 course confirmed
Following the successful start of this season’s programme, the RBIHF is pleased to confirm that a new official IIHF Coach Level 3 course will be organised in Belgium as part of the next edition.
This will create another important development opportunity for experienced coaches who are ready to take the next step in their education. Further information about the programme, dates and registration process will be communicated at a later stage.
Investing in every role behind the game
The RBIHF’s commitment to education extends beyond the current coaching programme. Earlier this season, specialised courses were organised for video coaches and equipment managers. New education programmes for referees and bench officials are also being rolled out, while goalkeeper coach education continues to be organised on a two-year cycle.
Our philosophy is simple:
A trained volunteer is a happy volunteer, because they know what to do and understand what is expected of them.
By providing volunteers with the right knowledge, practical tools and continued support, we help them perform their roles with greater confidence. At the same time, we assist our clubs in attracting, developing and retaining the volunteers who make ice hockey possible.
With 64 coaches beginning their certification journey, more Belgian instructors being developed and a new Coach Level 3 course confirmed, the RBIHF is building a stronger and more sustainable future for Belgian ice hockey.