SHERWOOD PARK, AB – The Sherwood Park Crusaders are pleased to announce the hiring of Scott Wray as the organization’s new Head Coach.
Wray brings a wealth of coaching experience to Sherwood Park. He spent the past two seasons as Head Coach of the Owen Sound Attack of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), guiding the club to playoff appearances in both seasons. Prior to joining Owen Sound, Wray spent seven seasons as an Assistant Coach with the North Bay Battalion, helping the organization reach three consecutive OHL Conference Final appearances.
Before moving to the OHL, Wray served as the first Head Coach in franchise history for the Powassan Voodoos, leading the club to a Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League (NOJHL) Championship during the 2016-17 season, just three years into their inception.
As a player, Wray enjoyed a distinguished career spanning multiple leagues across North America and Europe. In 2015, his contributions to the Rapid City Rush were recognized when the organization retired his jersey following five seasons with the club.
“On behalf of the entire Sherwood Park Crusaders organization, we are excited to welcome Scott Wray as our new Head Coach,” said Crusaders Governor Ryan Maxwell. “Scott’s significant experience and his commitment to player development make him an outstanding fit for our program. His addition is an important step in the continued development of our players, both on and off the ice, as we remain committed to providing the best possible product for our community and loyal fan base. We are confident Scott will help build on the strong culture and tradition of Crusaders hockey.”
“To bring in a coach of Scott’s pedigree is a huge win for our organization,” said Adam Girard. “When talking with Scott, the biggest thing that stood out was his ability to connect with players and his exceptional communication skills. We are not only bringing a highly qualified coach into our program, but an exceptional leader who understands what it takes to win at the highest levels.”
“Scott cares deeply about player development, is eager to engage with the community, and has an ultra-competitive desire to win. We couldn’t be happier to welcome Scott and his family to Sherwood Park, and I am excited to get to work alongside him.”
Adam Girard also acknowledged the strong interest the position generated.
“We were overwhelmed by both the quality and quantity of applicants, receiving well over 100 applications from across North America and Europe. It speaks volumes about the state of the BCHL and the attractiveness of Strathcona County. I had the opportunity to meet some truly incredible people throughout the process, and we are grateful to everyone who expressed interest.”
“I am very excited to get started with the Crusaders”, said Wray. “Throughout the process with Adam and Ryan, it became clear how passionate they are about the organization and its future. Sherwood Park has a proud history of junior hockey, and I look forward to contributing to that tradition. Adam and I will work closely together to attract and develop the best players possible, with the goal of building a team that can compete for a championship.”
With Wray now leading the bench, Adam Girard has now officially assumed General Manager duties.
“The Sherwood Park Crusaders are proud to promote Adam Girard to General Manager,” said Maxwell. “Adam is a hard-working and innovative leader who brings tremendous passion for the game and a clear vision for the future of our organization. His commitment to creating a player-first culture aligns perfectly with the values and standards we want to uphold in Sherwood Park. We are excited for the continued impact Adam will have on our players, staff, and community.”
Girard expressed gratitude for the opportunity and shared his excitement for the next chapter of Crusaders hockey.
“I would like to thank the entire ownership group for entrusting me with this opportunity,” said Girard. “I want to be here because Sherwood Park is an amazing hockey community, and I truly believe we can build something special here.”
“As we begin this next phase of Crusaders hockey, our group is committed to strengthening our connection with the community, promoting local talent, and continuing to build a competitive program that remains a premier destination for player development. The BCHL is a leading development pathway that provides an outstanding product for fans to enjoy right here in their backyard. We want to build something this community can be proud of. This is Sherwood Park’s team.”
The Sherwood Park Crusaders would like to welcome Scott and his family to the organization and look forward to the upcoming BCHL season.
