Shane Kenny

Shane Kenny moved to Fort McMurray 20 years ago, looking for work, and what started as a career move quickly grew into a deep connection with the community. “I was drawn here for opportunities, but over time, this town has become home,” he says. “It’s where my family is, where I’ve coached countless kids, and where I’ve found ways to give back in meaningful ways.”

Originally from Oromocto, New Brunswick, Shane has had a lifelong passion for hockey. He played for 20 years, including 12 as a professional, and was drafted into the NHL in 1995 by the Philadelphia Flyers. Today, he applies that same dedication to his career as Railcard Terminal Manager at CN Worldwide/International Bulk Services. “The most rewarding part of my career is knowing that the work I do makes a real impact,” he says. “Whether it’s solving a problem, helping someone, or contributing to a team goal, I find a lot of fulfillment in that.”

But for Shane, his true calling comes off the ice and field. “One of my passions is coaching,” he says. “Helping kids find their game — and their confidence.” He has spent the past nine years coaching youth hockey with the Fort McMurray Minor Hockey Association and youth baseball with the Fort McMurray Minor Baseball Association, as well as volunteering for the Snow Angels program in town for seven years. “It’s all about teaching more than skills,” Shane explains. “It’s about being a good teammate, being respectful, playing fair, having fun, and working hard. Mental and physical strength are just as important as the sport itself.”

Family is at the heart of Shane’s community involvement. “My kids play a huge role in my volunteering,” he says. “I coach their teams and try to lead by example for them and everyone else. They motivate me to keep giving my time and energy.” With five children and a visually impaired youngest daughter, Shane’s goals are personal as well as professional: he wants his kids to excel in their sports, develop confidence, and enjoy the process.

Shane’s dedication to youth and community stems from his own experiences growing up and travelling as a professional athlete. “Throughout my career, I volunteered in the communities I lived in, visiting children’s hospitals, schools, and attending local events,” he says. “Seeing the difference that kind of involvement can make left a lasting impression on me and is where my motivation comes from.”

He is also aware of the challenges facing today’s youth. “Our kids, mine included, are on iPads too much,” Shane says. “I think it’s a huge issue. Finding ways to get them active, engaged, and connected in real life is something I try to address through sports and community involvement.”

Outside of coaching, Shane’s life is full of energy and variety. He and his family have two young dogs, a Rottweiler named Ivy and an English Springer Spaniel named Arlo, and you can often find him at the Waterways dog park. He’s also an avid gardener, finding joy in growing vegetables and houseplants, solving problems, and helping them thrive.

Looking ahead, Shane hopes to continue inspiring young athletes while balancing family life. “I want to keep motivating kids to work hard, learn new skills, make friends, and have fun,” he says. Professionally, he aims to continue being a dedicated teammate and making an impact in his work.

At the core of it all, Shane’s outlook is simple. “Coaching and mentoring aren’t just about sports,” he says. “It’s about shaping young people, helping them gain confidence, and showing them the value of hard work and respect. If I can help even one kid find their game and believe in themselves, that’s what makes it all worth it.”