Martin Smith has been hired as the new Head Coach for the U18 AAA Battlefords Stars (U18 AAA Stars/Facebook).

By Austin Mattes

Back behind the bench

Martin Smith hired as head coach for AAA Stars

May 21, 2025 | 3:48 PM

The U18 AAA Battlefords Stars are turning to a familiar face to help lead their program, announcing the hiring of Martin Smith as the team’s new head coach for the 2025/26 season.

Smith, a Battlefords hockey legend and former professional player, is no stranger to the Stars organization. He previously coached the team from 2010 to 2015, including leading the club to its best season in over two decades in 2013-14, when the team posted an impressive 29-7-5-3 (W-L-T-OTL) record and advanced to the league finals.

His return comes at a time when the team is looking to reignite into a winning culture. The Stars finished ninth overall last season with a 14-16-4 (W-L-OTL) record and have only made the playoffs once in the past eight seasons.

Since his first stint with the Stars, Smith’s coaching resume has only grown. Last season, he served as the head coach for the Battlefords North Stars, guiding them to a division title and first round of the playoffs. With his knowledge and experience, Smith is hoping to build a strong team on and off the ice.

“The organizations always meant a lot to me and now to be back with the club that I coached for a few years and had some success in is really exciting. At the end of the day, we all want to win but we also want to develop on the ice and off the ice and that’s what I like to focus on at no matter what level I’ve coached at,” Smith said.

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With a deep connection to the community, Smith’s return brings optimism to AAA hockey in the Battlefords. The Stars organization is hopeful that his leadership can lead to a new era of competitiveness and consistency for the Stars.

“Martin brings a wealth of coaching experience and we’re excited that leading our team aligns perfectly with the next chapter of his coaching journey,” said the Stars via social media.

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Austin.mattes@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @AustinMattes