Major news came out of the Kindersley Jr. Klippers organization on Thursday as it was officially announced that Head Coach and GM Clayton Jardine accepted an assistant coaching job with the Red Deer Rebels of the Western Hockey League.
A native of Lacombe, Alberta, Jardine's move to Red Deer represents both a jump to the next level, but also a chance to go closer to home.
“I am excited to join the amazing organization I grew up watching my entire childhood. It has been 10 years of coaching day in and day out with the hope I could one day join the Rebels,” Jardine said in the Rebels press release.
As for the Klippers, they announced Jardine's departure on social media as part of a flurry of moves. Shortly after the news dropped it was shared that Kyle Schneider, a former SJHL player with the Melfort Mustangs and La Ronge Ice Wolves who stuck around as an assistant coach for four-years after, would be replacing Jardine as the Klippers bench boss.
“We are proud to announce the newest addition to the Klippers Organization, Kyle Schneider, who will be stepping in as our Head Coach for the upcoming season!" stated Klippers Team President Carson Shea in a release. "Kyle brings with him a wealth of experience, a deep passion for the game, and a commitment to building a strong team culture. We’re excited about the vision, energy, and leadership Coach Kyle brings, and we know our players, families, and fans will give him a warm welcome.”
With Jardine also holding the general manager position, the Klippers third and final announcement saw them promoting assistant GM Ryan Gibson to the lead role, "Gibby" taking over as GM after two years with the club working day-to-day with Jardine.
“The Kindersley Klippers are proud to announce the promotion of Ryan Gibson to General Manager of the Organization! Gibby has been a vital part of the Klippers family over the past two seasons serving as our Assistant GM, where his eye for talent, work ethic, and dedication to building a competitive roster have been instrumental to our recent success. We’re excited to see Ryan bring his vision and passion to his new role," said Shea.
There will be more to come on the bombshell news, but for now the entire organization wanted to wish Jardine and his family all the best in their next step closer to home in Red Deer.
“First and foremost, the Klippers Organization wants to congratulate Clayton on his career advancement. His passion for the game, commitment to player development, and strategic mindset have left a lasting impact on our program. While we will certainly miss his presence behind the bench, we couldn’t be prouder to see him advance to this well-deserved opportunity.
The Iron Horse Kindersley Klippers are entering a new chapter — one built on the foundation of the past and full of promise for the future. We thank Clayton Jardine for everything he’s given to the Klippers organization, and we proudly welcome Kyle Schneider and Ryan Gibson into their new roles," ended the team release.