The Rocky Mountain Rage took its first official stride into the National Ringette League spotlight this weekend, unveiling its logo and inaugural coaching staff at the Canadian Brewhouse in Cochrane on May 3.
The afternoon event drew community members and ringette fans eager to get their first glimpse of the team’s identity and direction.
The new logo, which features a bold mountain-inspired design, was met with enthusiastic applause as it was revealed.
“It was amazing to see that kind of turnout,” says Chris Kelly, who was announced as the franchise’s first-ever head coach. “You can feel the excitement already building.”
Kelly, who recently led the Zone 2 U19AA Blaze to a national championship, brings more than two decades of elite-level coaching experience to the Rage.
“I’ve coached everywhere from grassroots to the world stage,” Kelly says.
“To be able to build something new right here in Cochrane, that’s incredibly special.”
Joining him behind the bench as assistant coach is Leigh Sauer, who helped guide the University of Calgary Dinos to a University Challenge Cup title this past season.
“This is a big step, but it’s an exciting one,” says Sauer. “Working alongside Chris is a great opportunity, and I’m really looking forward to seeing what we can do with this group.”
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The coaching announcement solidified the franchise’s commitment to developing high-performance talent, with both coaches highlighting the importance of opportunity for athletes across the country.
“There are so many talented players out there looking for that next step,” says Kelly. “We want them to know there’s another place in southern Alberta where they can chase that dream.”
Sauer agrees, adding that the Rage could open doors for athletes well beyond Alberta.
“Whether they’re coming from Ontario, B.C. or even overseas, we want to give them a program they’re proud to be part of,” he says.
While excitement was high around the new branding and coaching lineup, attention is already shifting to the next phase, building the team.
“Trials will be coming up soon, and we know interest is already high,” Kelly says.
For athletes considering taking that leap, Kelly has one piece of advice.
“Keep competing, keep improving and reach out,” he says. “If you’ve got the drive and the skill, there’s a spot here to grow.”