Drew Bannister, a former NHL and OHL coach, has been named head coach of Canada's U18 men's hockey team for the upcoming IIHF World Championship in Slovakia. Among his assistant coaches are Matt Anholt and Mark O'Leary, with Dan De Palma returning as the goaltending coach for a third year. Hockey Canada is optimistic about the team's potential to win a third consecutive gold medal under Bannister's leadership, given his coaching experience and past success both domestically and internationally.

By the Numbers
  • Bannister has a coaching record of 136-50-13-5 with the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds.
  • This will be Bannister's first time head coaching the U18 National Team, with the goal to clinch the third-straight gold medal.
State of Play
  • Team Canada aims to maintain its dominance in U18 hockey, having previously won back-to-back championships.
  • The coaching staff has extensive experience in both the CHL and international hockey, enhancing their competitive edge.
What's Next

The U18 World Championship begins in less than a month, where Bannister and his team will prepare to take on international challengers in Bratislava and Tren膷铆n. The outcome could shape future selections for Canada鈥檚 hockey programs.

Bottom Line

Drew Bannister's appointment signals Hockey Canada's commitment to building a strong U18 team capable of defending their gold medal title, leveraging rich coaching experience to compete at the highest level.