The 51-year-old received the Jack Walters Award which recognises his sustained "leadership within the coaching environment".

Jelonek, who also won the award in 2000, 2012 and 2016, saw two of his long track skaters shine with career-best performances during the 2019-2020 winter season.

Laurent Dubreuil won overall silver at the World Sprint Championships and bronze over 1,000 metres at the World Single Distance Championships.

Antoine Gélinas-Beaulieu also won a global medal at the World Single Distance Championships, taking home mass start bronze.

The results are considered even more impressive as both skaters are based in Quebec and had to train without access to the Centre de Glaces ice oval, where construction work was taking place.

Speed Skating Canada paid tribute to Jelonek, a former skater himself who raced at his home 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, finishing 23rd over 1,500m.

"His experience, dedication and ability to motivate skaters when it counts makes Gregor a key factor in the success of long track speed skating in Quebec and across Canada," the governing body said. 

Jelonek added: "It's an honour to receive this award. 

"I would like to congratulate my skaters for their great results this season and would like to share this recognition with my colleagues."