Wolverines add Marcus Ryan to coaching staff

The Wolverines are pleased to announce the hiring of Marcus Ryan as an assistant coach with the team. Ryan brings a wealth of hockey knowledge to the club along with some familiarity with head coach Joey Bouchard.
Bouchard and Ryan first met while playing together at Augustana University from 2002 to 2004 and in the International Viking Cup in 2003. Following his collegiate career, Marcus has continued his involvement in the game by coaching at the minor hockey level.
“I think I can come in and bring some experience and relate to some of the situations some of the guys are going through. I can help these guys on a more one-on-one situation which will allow Joey to focus his attention more on the team as a whole,” says Ryan.
“I’m very familiar with the current team as I have kept a close watch on them this year being a local in Whitecourt. I am extremely excited and proud to be part of this first-class organization. They have built a great reputation and a winning tradition over the years. I look forward to working with Joey and doing what I can to help develop our players,” commented Ryan on jumping into the role mid-season.
“During my time spent playing at the Collegiate Hockey Level with Marcus, it became evident that he was a great team player and always put his teammates ahead of himself,” said Bouchard. “His experience as a player and effectively playing in a variety of roles will allow him to relate with our current players. His positive personality and experience will help the team tremendously.”
The Wolverines have also added former AJHL champion Jason Bouchard to the coaching staff on a part-time basis. Bouchard is a veteran of 180 AJHL regular season games, all spent with the Drayton Valley Thunder from 2002 to 2005. In his time in the league he racked up 54 goals and 90 assists and currently 5th all time in franchise scoring.
“Having won an AJHL championship with the Drayton Valley Thunder, Jason will add a wealth of experience, leadership, and knowledge to our team,” commented Bouchard. “His enthusiasm and understanding of the game has been evident on and off the ice. Jason has had many great coaches over the years including current head coach of the Calgary Dino’s, Mark Howell, and former Michigan Tech Coach Ian Kallay.”
I’m excited and look forward to working with Marcus and Jason for the remainder of the season. Both coaches have begun their coaching duties effective January 2, 2015.
The need to fill these roles comes as former assistant coach, Darcy Charrois, decided to move forward with a career in the oil and gas industry.
“I would like to thank Darcy for his contributions to our program. His professionalism and work ethic was commendable. We support his decision as he moves on to a career job in the oil and gas industry. I wish him all the best in his future endeavours,” stated Bouchard.
The entire Wolverines organization would like to thank Darcy for his dedication and commitment over the last year and a half, and wish him the best of luck moving forward in his career path.