Hilworth Back On The Job
(FREDERICTON, NB) Technically, she’s not behind the bench yet, but Sarah Hilworth is back on the job.
The head coach of the UNB REDS women’s hockey team has returned from a year-long parental leave and rejoined the now three-time and defending Atlantic University Sport champions.
“It’s been an invigorating experience,” said Hilworth, of her return. “It feels like rejoining a family, stepping back into the position with a renewed sense of purpose and dedication. Every moment spent with the team reminds me of why I’m passionate about coaching.”
In April of 2023, Hilworth gave birth to daughter Gray, the first child for Hilworth and her wife Cassidy, an assistant coach with the REDS.
“Parental leave was an invaluable time for bonding with my newborn and adjusting to the joys and challenges of parenthood,” she said. “It was wonderful to have uninterrupted moments with my baby and wife, cherishing milestones and creating lasting memories.”
“While I missed the daily interaction with the team and the thrill of competition, I’ll always remember the profound sense of gratitude for both my family and my career, and the realization of how they beautifully intersect to enrich my life.”
Hilworth spent the 2023-2024 season watching the team build a 21-6-0-1 (W-L-OTL-SOL) regular season record, good for second place. The REDS then beat Saint Mary’s and STFX to claim their third consecutive AUS title.
“I’m incredibly proud of how the team performed,” said Hilworth. “Seeing them succeed reaffirms our collective commitment to excellence and the resilience of UNB’s women’s hockey program.”
Hilworth also praised associate coach Kyle MacDonald, who served as interim head coach for the duration of her parental leave.
“It speaks volumes about the strength of our coaching staff and the dedication of our student-athletes,” she said. “I’m excited to build on Kyle’s successes and continue pushing towards new achievements together.”
Hilworth’s immediate priorities include reconnecting with student-athletes and coaches and addressing their concerns and needs. She’ll spend time this summer analyzing performances to identify areas for improvement.
“I'll focus on scheduling practices, exhibitions, and team activities to ensure we're prepared for the season ahead,” she said.
The team Hilworth returns to will be significantly different than the one she left.
Program veterans Kendra Woodland and Lily George are among the handful of student-athletes who’ve graduated from the program.
George was the 2023-24 AUS MVP and Woodland was the 2022-23 AUS and U SPORTS MVP.
“Losing players like Kendra and Lily, among others, is undoubtedly a challenge for the upcoming season,” she said. “Their contributions on and off the ice will be greatly missed, as they brought skill, leadership, and camaraderie to the team. But their departure opens opportunities for new players to step up and make their mark, fostering growth and evolution within the program.”
In returning to work, Hilworth is learning how to balance her full-time coaching duties with her full-time parenting responsibilities.
“It’s incredibly rewarding,” she said. “I’m discovering the importance of effective time management, delegation, and self-care.”
Moving forward, as a coach and a parent, Hilworth says she’s eager to continue shaping the next generation of hockey players and fostering a supportive and empowering environment for them.
Given that she and her wife are now raising a daughter, that may have taken on new meaning and greater importance.
STORY BY: Andy Campbell/UNB Athletics
FILE PHOTO BY: James West/for UNB Athletics