The Flyers are happy to announce the hiring of Winkler’s own Justin Falk as Assistant General Manager/Assistant Coach.
Justin brings an extensive professional playing career to the Flyers, after playing parts of nine seasons with the Ottawa Senators, Columbus Blue Jackets, Buffalo Sabres, Minnesota Wild and the New York Rangers. Justin also saw AHL time in Houston, Iowa, Lake Erie, Rochester, Colorado, and Belleville.
Justin is also a graduate of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. He suited up for the Swan Valley Stampeders in 2004-05 before playing for the Calgary Hitmen and the Spokane Chiefs of the Western Hockey League.
With deep roots in the Winkler, Justin bring a passionate commitment to the community on and off the ice. In addition to his responsibilities with the team as Head Coach Kelvin Cech’s Assistant Coach, Justin will assist general manager Jeff Jeanson with a special focus on community initiatives in the Pembina Valley.
From Justin Falk:
“I am beyond thrilled to carry on my journey in the game of hockey in a community I care deeply about. Kelvin has done a remarkable job with the program, so to support him as an assistant coach and compliment that high standard is really exciting.
I’m also looking forward to providing assistance to Jeff in the managerial duties of the club. It’s an exciting opportunity to work alongside two great hockey minds like Jeff and head scout Mike McAulay, who have worked diligently to create a strong cultured and highly competitive team in the present while also building organizational depth for years to come.
I’m humbled by the opportunity presented to be involved in this organization and I can’t wait to get to work and contribute to the lives of our hockey players on and off the ice. Giving back to this community is a passion of mine and I can’t wait to get that started with the Winkler Flyers.”
The Flyers are also pleased to announce that Mike McAulay will take on the dual roles of Head Scout and Director of Player Personnel.
Mike will focus on building the Flyers’ prospect base and 50-man list. He has overseen two Flyers drafts, with the draft of eligible 2006 born players being pushed to next spring due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A native of Carman, Manitoba, Mike played at the University of Minnesota/Crookston. A strong proponent of drafting and developing players who fit the culture of the Winkler Flyers, Mike’s tireless work has been instrumental in recruiting future prospects as well as players who have been able to step into the lineup and contribute immediately.