Brendan Taylor Takes the Helm of the Saginaw Spirit
The Saginaw Spirit have named Brendan Taylor as the 11th head coach in franchise history, a move that comes after a thorough search and pending U.S. immigration approval. An introductory press conference is slated for August 4 at the Dow Event Center, where Taylor will be introduced to fans, media and staff.
Taylor’s appointment follows a playing stint with the Spirit during the 2007‑2008 season in which he appeared in 30 games as a forward. After hanging up his skates, he transitioned into coaching, beginning his career in 2014 as an assistant with the Jr. A Oakville Blades.
A Decade of OHL Coaching Experience
Over the past ten years, Taylor has built a reputation as a developer of talent in the Ontario Hockey League. He served as an assistant coach for the Soo Greyhounds and the Mississauga Steelheads, guiding each club to three consecutive playoff appearances from 2024 through 2026 and capturing a gold medal with Team Canada Red at the 2025 U17 World Hockey Challenge.
His work has resulted in the development of more than 30 players who have been drafted or signed by NHL teams. In the 2026 draft, the Greyhounds saw four prospects selected, highlighted by defenseman Chase Reid, who went seventh overall to the Seattle Kraken.
Immigration Clearance and Upcoming Press Event
Taylor’s coaching résumé also includes a formative period with the Oakville Blades, where he honed his approach to player development and team dynamics. The Spirit’s management believes his blend of former player insight and proven coaching success positions the club for a competitive future.