A Coaching Legacy Re‑examined
Drew Bannister, the current head coach of the Soo Greyhounds, has been selected among three assistants to guide Canada’s 2026 Hlinka‑Gretzky Cup squad.
His appointment follows a distinguished tenure that began in 2015, when he led the Greyhounds to a 39‑31‑6 record in the OHL and earned Coach of the Year honors in 2018.
International Coaching Credentials
Beyond the Ontario Hockey League, Bannister has compiled a diverse coaching résumé, having guided the Canadian Spengler Cup entry and the nation’s U18 program, and he brings a stint with the St. Louis Blues — where he posted a 39‑31‑6 record over 76 games — into the international mix.
His global experience also includes stints on the Canadian Spengler Cup team and the U18 national side, underscoring a career that bridges junior, senior and international stages.
Alongside Bannister, Erie Otters general manager Dave Brown has been appointed assistant general manager for the Canadian roster, adding front‑office depth to the coaching contingent.
The selections reflect a broader strategy by Hockey Canada to blend proven OHL talent with seasoned international exposure as the 2026 tournament approaches.