University of Windsor Lancers women's hockey player Makayla Mailhot has been named to the Creating Coaches program for the 2026-27 season. This program, designed by Hockey Canada and U SPORTS, will increase the number of women coaching hockey throughout Canada.

The Creating Coaches program launched in 2021, and its participants consist of current U SPORTS women's hockey players that receive mentorship, training, and education while serving as assistant coaches for youth girls' hockey teams in their communities.

Mailhot is one of 22 women named to the this edition of the program, which spans two seasons.

"Creating Coaches gives U SPORTS student-athletes a meaningful opportunity to develop as leaders while helping to shape the next generation of players," said Pierre Arsenault, chief executive officer of U SPORTS. "We are proud to continue working with Hockey Canada and the Hockey Canada Foundation to expand pathways for women in coaching and strengthen the future of the game across Canada."

The Creating Coaches selection committee includes representation from Hockey Canada, U SPORTS, Hockey Canada's Members and the Hockey Canada Foundation Board of Directors. 

The fourth-year Human Kinetics student is entering her fourth season in the blue and gold. She recorded a career-best 10 points in 2025-26, scoring one goal and adding nine assists as the Lancers earned a home ice playoff berth.