Coaching Announcement

Perth Thunder Head Coach Dave Ruck has released the following letter to fans regarding coaching staff for the 2017 AIHL season:

Hi Thunder Fans.

As head coach of the Thunder for season 2017 it is my privilege to introduce the coaching staff for season 2017.

I’ve spent the last few weeks developing the season plan through consultation with this dynamic group of people and we’ve defined the roles and responsibilities to put in place the structures that will look to get the Thunder to the next step, the Goodall Cup Final.

Darin Bryce will remain as an assistant coach, running the team game day on the bench and on ice in practices. Darin and I have worked closely together very successfully for many years winning multiple gold medals at the National State Championships.

Darin is a progressive coach with a wealth of knowledge gained from years of experience playing highly competitive hockey growing up in Canada and coaching top levels in Australia. He prides himself in building strong relationships with those around him through integrity and putting the team first. We are excited to develop the player skill sets and implement our winning formula of strategies and tactics at the elite level of the AIHL.

Chris Kostopoulos will also stay on board as the second assistant coach, having worked in this capacity for the last 5 years. His main role this year will be mainly analytical, looking for the patterns and nuances developing each game to assist with any adjustments needed during home games. Chris brings Goodall Cup-winning experience to the coaching group, having won it playing for NSW in 1992.

Matt Mahhood has taken up a full-time role as the Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Thunder. Matt did some pre- season work with the team last year and he has come on board to manage the fitness levels of the team for the full season. Matt has a degree in Exercise and Sports Science and worked as a gym manager and personal trainer and has previously trained as an elite level sprinter.

Dave Tran will continue as the Head Trainer of the team, while Hayley Rawson will again work with Dave as our massage therapist, while Richie Lamb will continue in his role as Team Manager. 

The coaching staff appreciate the support of the Thunder board, General Manager Stan Scott, Director of Hockey Dave Kenway, the players and the fans. It will take everyone’s best efforts to take home the Goodall Cup 2017.

Sincerely,
Dave Ruck
Perth Thunder Head Coach