By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

bench bosses

Sylvan Lake Wranglers announce first coaching staff following relocation from Blackfalds

Aug 3, 2019 | 11:55 AM

One of the Heritage Junior B Hockey League’s newest teams has announced its coaching staff.

It was May 31 when the HJHL announced its approval of the Blackfalds Wranglers’ relocation to Sylvan Lake. The team will begin play this fall out of the NexSource Centre.

The franchise announced this week it is proud to welcome Pat Garritty as the team’s head coach for their first season in Sylvan.

Garritty has been coaching hockey, starting with Sylvan Lake Minor, since 1990. He has gone on to coach with the Red Deer Optimist Chiefs to four provincial titles, and also spent time with the Red Deer Rebels’ sales and marketing department.

Joining Garritty will be two men who know a lot about the HJHL, because they both played in it.

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Bryce Campbell, a product of the Sylvan Lake Minor Hockey Association, has coached three years with the West Central Midget AA Tigers. He spent the 2005-06 season with the Red Deer Vipers, winning a provincial championship as well as the Keystone Cup.

The third member of the coaching staff will be Karson French. French suited up for the Blackfalds Wranglers for three seasons and won the HJHL championship in 2010, plus a provincial and Keystone Cup title in 2011. French has also played with the Daysland Stars of the North Central Hockey League for the last seven years.

“When we began this search, it was imperative that we find enthusiastic, local talent to ensure a smooth transition and a successful season on the ice,” says Wendell Jones, team president.

“We are fortunate to have such an experienced, versatile group step forward with one goal in mind, working together to build a powerhouse franchise for this town to enjoy for years to come.”

The Wranglers will be key rivals of the Red Deer Vipers, Ponoka Stampeders, and the brand new Rocky Mountain House Rams. The Wranglers’ open their season on the road Sept. 21 in Red Deer at Servus Arena. Their first home game is Sept. 22 at the NexSource Centre.