Cranbrook, BC – Jeff Chynoweth, General Manager of the Kootenay ICE Hockey Club today announced the Club has hired Todd Johnson and Jerry Bancks as their new Assistant Coaches. Both coaches have signed two-year contracts along with a club option for a third year.
“It is very exciting for our organization to have these two gentlemen join our coaching staff. Both men are teachers by trade so they will be able to relate to the young players of today. They also have played in the League and have coached at different levels which will definitely be an asset to our Club”, continued Chynoweth.
“Both Todd and Jerry are passionate to begin coaching in the Western Hockey League. Our players will benefit a great deal from their experience teaching individual skills,” commented Head Coach Kris Knoblauch.
Todd Johnson played three seasons in the WHL with the Moose Jaw Warriors (1990-1991), Kamloops Blazers (1991-1992) and Red Deer Rebels (1992-1993). He won a Memorial Cup with the Blazers in 1992 and was also the first ever captain of the Rebels. Todd played five years at the University of Calgary (1993-1998) and obtained a Bachelor of Education degree. Upon his graduation from University he played professionally in Germany (1998-2004). For the past six years he has been involved with the Pursuit of Excellence Hockey Academy in Kelowna, BC, including the last four years as Head Coach of the Midget AAA team.
Jerry Bancks has been involved with hockey in Kimberley for a number of years, including two different stints as Assistant Coach with the Kimberley Dynamiters. Recently retired after teaching for 30 years, he will continue to teach at the School District 6 Sports School in Kimberley. Jerry played two years in the Western Canada Hockey League with the Lethbridge Broncos and Calgary Centennials (1974-1976). Upon graduating from the WCHL he went on to play five years with the University of Calgary (1976-1980). Jerry also achieved a Bachelor of Physical Education and Bachelor of Education degrees at the University of Calgary.
Todd Johnson is a native of Regina, Saskatchewan. He and his wife Miriam are the parents of one son – Eli (2). Todd will be joining the ICE on August 23.
Jerry Bancks is a native of Calgary, Alberta. He and his wife Marilyn are the parents of two children – Cassidy (23) and Carter (21). Jerry will be joining the ICE at Training Camp on September 2.