Willie Desjardins named 2025 Honorary Applied Degree winner
Medicine Hat College (MHC) is pleased to announce Wilbrod (Willie) Desjardins as the recipient of its 2025 honorary applied baccalaureate degree in recognition of his commitment to youth development, athletics, and education.
Desjardins is a distinguished leader in Canadian hockey whose influence extends far beyond the game. As a coach, mentor, and advocate for education, he has shaped the lives of countless athletes, fostering both their athletic and personal growth.
“Nominations for Willie Desjardins all had a common theme, applauding his dedication to excellence, character development, and community,” says Sarah MacKenzie, chair of MHC’s Board of Governors. “We are incredibly proud of what Willie has done for sport in Medicine Hat over the years, and especially in recent weeks coaching the Medicine Hat Tigers through an incredible playoff season and performance at the 2025 Canadian Hockey League Memorial Cup.”
Desjardins’ hockey journey began in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League before advancing to the Western Canada Hockey League (WHL). He later played for the University of Saskatchewan Huskies and earned a Bachelor of Education (BEd) and a Master of Social Work (MSW) during his time there.
His coaching career began in 1985 as an assistant at the University of Calgary, where he quickly demonstrated his ability to develop and inspire young athletes. In 2002, he took over as head coach of the WHL's Medicine Hat Tigers, revitalizing the franchise and leading them to remarkable success. Under Desjardins’ leadership, the Tigers secured their first playoff appearance in five years, won the WHL Championship in 2004, and finished as Eastern Conference regular-season champions in 2005. In 2006, he expanded his role to include general manager, further cementing his impact on the organization. His philosophy centered on discipline, perseverance, and personal growth has left a lasting legacy in junior hockey.
After a successful run in Medicine Hat, Desjardins moved on to the professional hockey ranks as associate head coach of the Dallas Stars of the NHL. In 2014, he became head coach of the Vancouver Canucks, followed by interim head coach for the Los Angeles Kings in 2018. In 2019, he returned to the Medicine Hat Tigers as head coach and general manager, continuing to shape the future of young athletes. With over 500 career wins in the WHL, Desjardins is among the most accomplished coaches in league history.
Beyond his achievements in coaching, Desjardins is a dedicated advocate for education and youth development. In 2018, he founded the South Alberta Hockey Academy with Prairie Rose Public Schools, a Hockey Canada Accredited School that integrates academics with access to elite hockey training for both male and female students in rural communities. The academy's education-first approach ensures that student-athletes receive a strong academic foundation while developing their skills on the ice. Desjardins is also a key player in the South Alberta Flight Academy through Prairie Rose, providing students with an opportunity to build airmanship, aircraft and confidence alongside their high school studies.
Described as inclusive, kind and a champion for students, Desjardins has a knack for taking those who have not quite figured out how they fit under his wing. Students walk a little taller down the hallway thanks to his efforts. Many have gone on to pursue postsecondary education thanks to his mentorship and encouragement.
“As Nelson Mandela once said, 'Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,'” says Desjardins. “I am deeply honoured and grateful to Medicine Hat College for this award. This recognition is a testament to the college's commitment to excellence and its belief in the transformative power of education.”
Medicine Hat College accepts honorary degree nominations from the community in January and presents the award at its annual convocation ceremony in June.