Head Coach: Sam Graham
Sam@wildernesshockey.com
Assistant Coach: TBD
Goalie Coach/Director of Player Personnel: Cory Lonke
Goalie Advisor: Taras Lendzyk
Senior Advisor/Director of Player Procurement: Kevin Smalley
Kevin is back for his 9th season with the Minnesota Wilderness as Director of Player Personnel. Kevin’s contributions to the organization span wide as he is involved in coaching our U16 and U18 Fall development teams as well as being a scout for the organization. Kevin has been a huge part in finding some of the top talent in Northern Minnesota and bringing them into the Wilderness family. Kevin played his college hockey at the University of Minnesota-Duluth.
Scout: Sean Fish
Scout: Brett Heigel
Scout: Joe Allen
Scout: Ray Hyde
Scout: Jay Ekman
Scout: Tanner Grina
Scout: Drake Ramirez
ATC: Jessica Anderson
Co-Directors of Player Health & Wellness: John & Candace “Empyrean”
As co-owners of Empyrean Health & Wellness, John and Candace bring extensive experience in optimizing athletic performance to the Wilderness organization. With their comprehensive expertise in sports science, the duo collaborates closely with the coaching staff, hockey operations and players to develop individualized strategies for preparation, recovery, nutrition, and return-to-play protocols. In their current role with the Wilderness, John and Candace focus specifically on enhancing player wellness and performance through evidence-based approaches and personalized care.
Strength Trainer: Chris Bell “IST”
Mindset Coach: Adam Bennett
Adam Bennett, from Georgetown, Ontario, is a former professional hockey player and current mindset coach. Selected 6th overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 1989 NHL Entry Draft, Bennett played for both the Blackhawks and the Edmonton Oilers during his NHL career.
After retiring from professional hockey, Bennett transitioned into coaching, focusing on mental performance. With over 30 years in the sports industry, he now empowers athletes, teams, industry professionals, and others to unlock their champion mindset through mental performance coaching.