Dedicated kids’ coach named Kiwanis Top Cop
“Coach Galley” has been volunteering for over a decade, helping minor hockey, basketball and Special Olympic athletes.
Edmonton police Const. Chris Gallagher has been named the Kiwanis Club of Edmonton Oil Capital’s Top Cop, an award created 41 years ago to recognize police officers who have made substantial volunteer contributions in Edmonton.
Gallagher — an 11-year member who received the award at downtown headquarters Friday — works in the police recruit training unit, but his commitment to coaching outside of work is spurred by his involvement with the teams of his twin daughters.
“On a typical weekend, Galley is routinely attending three games or practices each day, often travelling out of town for tournaments,” said a statement in one of his nomination letters. “Not surprisingly, Galley’s dedication and passion for the game has rubbed off on his players. Both of his teams are currently undefeated.”
Gallagher coaches the St. Albert SLAM Bantam girls basketball team as well as St. Albert Minor Hockey Association’s Bantam and Peewee girls teams. He stepped in to lead the bantam hockey team when he found out they needed a head coach.
He also volunteers with the Special Olympics, having organized tournaments, barbecues and matches for more than 15 years.