Rowing Canada Aviron is pleased to welcome Jacquelyn Novak to the new position of Director, Coach Education and Development.
Jacquelyn, who has more than 10 years management consulting experience, is a graduate of Bishop's University with a BBA in Business Administration, and has since completed a Masters of Sports Administration and Technology (MSA) degree from the International Academy of Sports Science and Technology (AISTS) in Lausanne, Switzerland. In 2010, Jacquelyn left her position with Deloitte's Human Capital practice to pursue her passion for sport on a full-time basis. She also holds certifications in European Management, Change Management Training Facilitation and Project Management.
Jacquelyn has worked for both European Athletics and the International Volleyball Federation in Lausanne, and through her professional experience has acquired a strong skill set in strategic planning, program management, education and curriculum development, e-learning, event and conference management, and marketing/communications.
In addition, Jacquelyn is an accomplished athlete, having represented Canada, France and Switzerland at an international level in softball. She is a certified coach and referee (softball, volleyball, basketball) and is currently completing her coaching certification with the International Softball Federation and her NSCA certification as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist. She is familiar with sport systems, coaching programs and structures in Canada and internationally.
"We are looking forward to having Jacquelyn as part of the RCA team," said Donna Atkinson, Chief Executive Officer of Rowing Canada Aviron. "Her extensive experience both professionally and athletically will be of great value in our organization at this time."
Throughout her career, Jacquelyn has received many awards and accolades for her professional and athletic accomplishments. She joins the RCA team at the beginning of November, and will be based at its head office in Victoria, BC.
"I am aware of Rowing Canada's excellent reputation and am honoured to be joining such an impressive and professional team," said Novak. "The role itself seems extremely dynamic, and I am looking forward to the challenges ahead as we work to further unite the coaching community and achieve great success at all levels."
Carolyn Trono, who has been a driving force within Rowing Canada for coaching education and long term athlete development (LTAD), is pleased to see this renewed focus on coaching education and development with this full-time role.
"Coach education and development has been highlighted as a key strategic priority and this dedicated position is moving in the right direction to advance both coach and rower development at all levels of the sport ," said Trono. Carolyn will continue to work with Rowing Canada to provide critical leadership and assistance to Jacquelyn, ensuring a smooth transition in the area of coach education and long term athlete development.