Dev27 STAFF

STAFF DIRECTORY

DEV27 coaches emphasize fundamentals, confidence, and habits that support long-term success on and off the ice.

Director of Hockey

SIMON FERGUSON

Simon Ferguson brings over 20 years of experience across professional, junior, and international hockey. A former WHL, AHL, ECHL, and European professional player and multi-time champion, he transitioned into coaching and management with a strong focus on player development and program building.

As General Manager and Head Coach of the West Kelowna Warriors (BCHL), Ferguson led sustained on-ice success, developed NHL-drafted players, and earned league and national recognition, including being named a BCHL Coach of the Year Finalist. Hockey Canada certified, he is widely respected for his leadership, communication, and ability to build competitive, development-driven hockey environments.

Skating & Skills Coach

BRAD CRUIKSHANK

Brad brings a wealth of experience, having played 5 years of junior hockey in the WHL and AJHL, followed by a 12 year professional career. He was our 17U Head Coach last season and has served as an on ice instructor for our DEV27 program for the past two years. Before joining Okanagan HC, Brad was an Assistant Coach with the Lloydminster Bobcats U18 AAA team and Head Coach of the Lloydminster Bandits Jr team.

DIRECTOR OF PLAYER DEVELOPMENT

JUSTIN KELLY

Strength & Conditioning Coach

NOAH RENSBY

Noah is a Health and Exercise Science graduate from UBC Okanagan (2023) with extensive experience working with student-athletes in strength training and injury rehabilitation. He is entering his third year with the Warriors, contributing to in-season off-ice training and stepping into a lead role within the strength and conditioning component of the DEV27 Summer Program. In addition, Noah has spent the past three years working as an Athletic Therapist with JPHL teams, supporting athlete performance, recovery, and long-term development.

Scouting & Recruitment Manager

LIAM BLACKBURN

A former West Kelowna Warrior, he played three BCHL seasons and ranks second all-time in franchise points, while also being a key member of the Warriors’ 2016 RBC Cup championship team. He later competed at the NCAA Division I level with the University of New Hampshire and played professionally in Europe. Now overseeing scouting and recruiting, he brings a strong understanding of player evaluation, development pathways, and high-performance environments.

DEFENCE DEVELOPMENT COACH

WYATT HEAD

Born and raised in Kelowna, British Columbia, he is a former BCHL defenceman who played four seasons in the league, including 131 games with the West Kelowna Warriors, recording 82 points and ranking among the BCHL’s top offensive defencemen. He went on to compete at the NCAA Division I level at Quinnipiac University and Mercyhurst University. Now a coach, he focuses on defensive development, video analysis, and game preparation, and is known for his strong hockey IQ, attention to detail, and commitment to helping athletes reach the next level.

Goalie Coach

LUCAS GORE

Lucas is originally from Kamloops, BC and moved to West Kelowna in 2022. He is part owner of the goaltending company “The Goalie Group” and is responsible for the management of its Interior division. Lucas is currently in his 5th year as the goalie coach for the Spokane Chiefs (WHL). Before the "Chiefs" Gore spent time coaching with the Kamloops Blazers (WHL) and Prince George Spruce Kings (BCHL). Prior to coaching, Lucas played one season with Vernon Vipers (BCHL) before playing three full seasons with Chilliwack Bruins (WHL). He moved on to play four years at the University of Regina before finishing his playing career with Stockton Thunder (ECHL).

MENTAL SKILLS & SPORTS PERFORMANCE COACH

BRENT HAYTER

Hayter has spent much of his life around hockey, providing 25 years of experience as a teacher, coach, power skating instructor, and strength & conditioning coaching. Brent will be supporting the emotional needs of players throughout the pressures of playing at an elite level away from home while helping improve mental skills to increase performance, consistency, and potential on the ice.

FORWARD DEVELOPMENT COACH

JORDAN  SANDHU