Ontario Tech Head Coach Wins Top Provincial Coaching Honour
Toronto (C/O Coaches Association of Ontario) – In celebration of the 11th annual National Coaches Week (September 15-21) the Coaches Association of Ontario (CAO), the Ministry of Sport, and Hydro One Inc. (Hydro One) are proud to recognize 15 coaches with the Ontario Coaching Excellence Award. From basketball to curling, the province’s most prestigious coaching award recognizes the power of sport across local communities in Ontario.
Among those recognized was Ontario Tech men’s basketball head coach Deluxshan Pathmanathan, recognized for his calm presence, visionary leadership, and player-first philosophy. Since taking over in 2023, he has transformed the Ridgebacks from the bottom of national rankings to a historic Top 10 USports placement, including a program-best finish in the OUA semifinals. Known for building trust and culture through humility, empathy, and preparation, Pathmanathan has created an environment where athletes thrive both on and off the court.
"Congratulations to all of the 2025 award winners. We are honoured to celebrate these 15 coaches for their unwavering dedication and commitment to creating a safe and positive environment for their athletes. Their daily efforts go beyond the field, helping to shape not just skilled competitors but also the next generation of resilient, and well-rounded individuals," said Jeremy Cross, Executive Director of CAO. "This award is a testament to the incredible impact they have on our communities and the future of sport in Ontario. We're also very grateful to the Government of Ontario and Hydro One for their support of National Coaches Week and Ontario Coaching Excellence Awards."
The awards ceremony took place at BMO Field in Toronto on September 13, 2025, during the Toronto Argonauts versus Edmonton Elks game. Recipients will also receive funding for new equipment, ensuring that their athletes and teams remain safe while making their respective sports affordable and accessible.
"Coaches play a vital role in shaping sport in Ontario – their dedication, leadership and ability to inspire athletes of all ages leaves a lasting impact both on and off the field," said Neil Lumsden, Minister of Sport. "Congratulations to these 15 outstanding individuals who embody what it means to lead with purpose and passion. To everyone being recognized here today – and to coaches across our province who give their time and energy to develop athletes, and create opportunities for youth to participate in sport – thank you."
The recipients of the Coaching Excellence Award have been chosen from a wide range of nominations, representing more than 30 sports and 49 communities in 2025. These annual awards celebrate coaches at every level for their exceptional dedication, their ability to inspire others and the positive impact they have on the lives of all their participants.
Every September, National Coaches Week celebrates the one in seven Ontarians who are actively involved in coaching, with as many as 75 per cent volunteering their time. CAO says #ThanksCoach to them for the role they play in building safe communities and inspiring participants to reach their potential. For more information about National Coaches Week across Ontario, visit www.coachesontario.ca/events/coachesweek.
