The Winkler Flyers would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Associate Coach and Assistant General Manager, Coltyn Bates, for his dedication, passion, and years of service to the organization.
Coltyn has been an integral part of the Flyers family for six seasons, three as a player, and three on the coaching and management staff. His commitment to the team and to the community was evident from day one, and he left a lasting impact in the dressing room and beyond.
Behind the bench, Coltyn played a key role in helping shape the team’s identity and culture. His work as Associate Coach and Assistant GM was instrumental in building the foundation that led to a Turnbull Cup Championship and a Centennial Cup appearance in the 2023-24 season. The hours he poured into recruiting, development, video, and mentoring never went unnoticed, and the results speak for themselves.
We’re proud to share that Coltyn has accepted an Assistant Coach position with the Coventry Blaze of the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL), taking the next step in his coaching journey. While we’re sad to see him go, we’re thrilled to see him move forward and continue making his mark on the game at the professional level.
“Coltyn is incredibly deserving of this opportunity. He has had a hand in every part of the organization and has truly left it better than he found it. He played a major role in bringing a championship to Winkler and helped shape the winning, professional culture that continues today. He has been instrumental in advancing players to the next level, and his long-term commitment has left a lasting impact on the Winkler community. Coventry is getting a tireless worker who builds strong relationships with players and a good man with a great instinct for building teams and understanding what it takes to win.” – General Manager/Head Coach – Matt Melo
The time and energy Coltyn has given to the Flyers organization is immeasurable, and deeply appreciated by players, staff, and the entire Flyers community. We thank him for everything he has done, and we wish him nothing but success and happiness in his next chapter.
Once a Flyer, always a Flyer.
