Troy Ryan and Noémie Marin have both been handed coaching positions ©Hockey Canada

Canada has made a pair of coaching appointments within its women's ice hockey programme.

Noémie Marin has been named as the head coach of the women's development team, while Troy Ryan will take the reigns at the women's under-18 team.

Marin is currently the women's head coach at John Abbott College, and has worked with the under-18 team and Team Quebec in the past.

Ryan, meanwhile, is the Atlantic Canada female coach mentor.

"We’re thrilled with the coaching staff that will lead our women’s development and under-18 teams through the 2016-17 season,” said Melody Davidson, general manager of national women’s team programmes with Hockey Canada. 

Canada's senior women's team have won the past four Olympic titles ©Getty Images
Canada's senior women's team have won the past four Olympic titles ©Getty Images

“These programmes are the building blocks towards Canada’s national women’s team, and we continue to focus on developing our coaches. 

"I’m confident this group will help grow these programmes as they lead their teams at camps and international events."

Canada are a leading power in the women's game, claiming the Olympic gold medal for the past four editions of the Games.

They historically battle with near-neighbours and rivals the United States.