PWHL Vancouver names Brian Idalski as first coach

PWHL Vancouver named Brian Idalski as the expansion club's first head coach on Monday.

Idalski, 54, spent the past three seasons as head coach of the St. Cloud State women's hockey program.

"Brian is a proven winner who knows our sport, the players, and has coached at the highest levels," general manager Cara Gardner Morey said. "What stands out in Brian's experience is his ability to build and transform the programs he is a part of, from his work in professional leagues, at the Olympics, and turning collegiate teams into nationally ranked contenders. I'm excited that he will lead our incredible group in Vancouver and can't wait to see his vision and influence shape our foundation."

He previously led the collegiate programs at Wisconsin-Stevens Point (2001-06) and North Dakota (2007-17) before serving as head coach of the Chinese professional team Shenzhen KRS Vanke Rays from 2019-22.

Idalski also coached the Chinese women's national team at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.

"I feel very fortunate to have this opportunity to join an organization and city like Vancouver and want to thank Cara and the league for their trust and belief in me," Idalski said. "The PWHL has had a huge impact on the global game, and to be a part of that -- with expansion helping push it even further forward -- is an unbelievable feeling."

Idalski coached recent Vancouver signees Michela Cava and Hannah Miller with the KRS Vanke Rays.

--Field Level Media