After guiding the Trail Smoke Eaters to one of the best records in the league this season, head coach and general manager Tim Fragle has been named recipient of the Joe Tennant Memorial Trophy for BCHL Coach of the Year.
Fragle, now in his fifth season behind the Smoke Eaters bench, led the team to a 35-15-3-1 record, good for third place in the Interior Conference and fourth overall in the BCHL.
Under his leadership, the team also set a franchise record with 19 short-handed goals.
"I am incredibly honoured to receive this award, especially when you are chosen by your fellow coaching peers," Fragle said in a statement released Wednesday.
"It's a true testament to the buy-in from players and all of the incredible Smoke Eaters staff."
Fragle credited the award to the team's collective commitment and support, adding, "I am grateful for the trust that owners Rich and Annie Murphy have in me and allowing me the opportunity to lead this program."
This season, Fragle became the all-time leader in coaching wins in Smoke Eaters franchise history, recording his 112th victory.
He has now amassed 304 total wins at the junior level.
Since taking over in Trail, he has helped 52 players secure commitments to NCAA or Canadian university and college hockey programs.
"His ability to recruit quality players and people, develop talent, while fostering a culture that reflects the definition of a Smoke Eater, is what makes him deserving of this award," said Craig Clare, the team鈥檚 director of hockey and business operations.
"This award is a reflection of the dedication, leadership, and development plan Tim brings to our team every day."
A former player with the Smoke Eaters from 1997 to 1999, Fragle is a club alumnus who returned to Trail with a clear vision for the program鈥檚 growth.
In March, the organization announced a multi-year contract extension for Fragle, keeping him behind the bench through the 2027 BCHL season.
The Trail Smoke Eaters organization extended its congratulations to Fragle following the announcement of the award.
