Brian Idalski has been appointed as the first head coach of the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s new expansion team in Vancouver. Idalski brings 18 seasons of collegiate coaching experience, including St. Cloud State University, and international experience coaching the KRS Vanke Rays in China and China's women’s hockey team at the 2022 Beijing Olympics.
Brian Idalski named first head coach of PWHL Vancouver expansion team
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️Brian Idalski has been appointed as the first head coach of the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s new expansion team in Vancouver. Idalski brings 18 seasons of collegiate coaching experience, including St. Cloud State University, and international experience coaching the KRS Vanke Rays in China and China's women’s hockey team at the 2022 Beijing Olympics.
- 1 2022: Brian Idalski coached China’s women’s hockey team at the Beijing Olympics.
- 2 Undisclosed dates: Idalski coached for three seasons at St. Cloud State University, and three years for the KRS Vanke Rays.
- 3 June 23, 2025: Brian Idalski was named the first head coach of PWHL Vancouver.
- Establishment of the PWHL Vancouver team's coaching leadership
- Potential for the team to build on Idalski's winning record and experience
What: Brian Idalski was named the first head coach of the Professional Women’s Hockey League’s new expansion team in Vancouver.
When: Announced on June 23, 2025 (published date).
Where: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Idalski's past coaching locations include St. Cloud State University, University of North Dakota, University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point (USA), Shenzhen (China), and Beijing (China).
Why: Idalski was chosen for his extensive coaching experience, including collegiate success, international titles, and prior work with players like Michela Cava and Hannah Miller, who are now with PWHL Vancouver.
How: Cara Gardner Morey, Vancouver general manager, announced the appointment, citing Idalski as a 'proven winner' with a strong ability to build and transform programs.