The New York Sirens have announced the hiring of Jim Midgley as their new assistant coach for the 2026‑27 Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) season, a move that underscores the team's commitment to deepening its coaching expertise.
A Coach With Diverse Experience
Midgley arrives after stints as an assistant coach with the Toronto Sceptres in the PWHL, where he helped shape a competitive roster over two seasons, and as an assistant with the New York Rangers during the 2021‑22 and 2022‑23 NHL campaigns. His international résumé includes a role on the bench of Team Canada at the 2021 IIHF Women’s World Championship, a tournament in which Canada captured gold.
Beyond the bench, Midgley has amassed more than two decades of coaching experience across professional, junior and international levels. He previously served as head coach of the QMJHL’s Halifax Mooseheads in the 2017‑18 and 2023‑24 seasons, guiding the club through a period of rebuilding and development.
From Player to Coach
Midgley’s hockey journey began in the Ontario Hockey League, where he played three seasons with the North Bay Centennials and Belleville Bulls, followed by four years at Saint Mary’s University, culminating in a captaincy that highlighted his leadership qualities. His professional playing career wrapped up with the Fort Worth Brahmas in the Central Hockey League, giving him a player‑first perspective that informs his coaching philosophy.
Staff Composition and Expectations
The Sirens’ coaching staff also features head coach Greg Fargo, assistant coach Valérie Bois and goaltending and video coach Gordon Woodhall. Together, this group blends NHL acumen, PWHL insight and international success, positioning the team to enhance player development, refine tactical approaches and sustain a winning culture as the franchise continues its ascent in the league.