The Eagle Sky Estevan Bruins have announced that Drew Kocur will be moving into the role of full-time head coach and general manager.
Kocur will be starting his third season with the team this year, after holding the position of assistant coach and interim head coach/GM since he first joined in 2023.
Bruins’ Club President, Riley Tetreault, said the organization “is thrilled to have Kocur at the helm as head coach and GM.”
“Drew’s passion for the game, his players, and his staff was evident throughout the close of our regular season. Through the hiring process, Drew’s preparation, vision for the team, and expectations of his players aligned with the long-term vision of the board, and we’d like to congratulate him.”
Kocur said he’s grateful for the opportunity to steer the team forward in the future.
“To be named the Head Coach/GM is truly an honour, and I am very grateful for the opportunity to be the club’s next leader. It is something that I have worked hard for, and to be able to do so in the community of Estevan is truly something special.
“When my wife and I moved here in the spring of 2023, I knew right away that this community bleeds passion for hockey and the Bruins. I took the job that spring because of the history and success the Bruins have had over the years. The people I have been fortunate enough to meet over the years have really made me feel welcome.”
Kocur previously led the Pilot Butte Storm to back-to-back Prairie Junior Hockey League (PJHL) Finals, winning the 2022-23 Jr. B provincial championship. Kocur was also named as the PJHL’s Coach of the Year that season.
With the Bruins missing out on the playoffs last season, Kocur says he's excited to get the team back on track.
“I look forward to building a team with my staff and getting the Bruins back to where we all want them to be. Looking into the 2025/26 season, what you will see is a team that is blue collar, motivated, eager, and hardworking each and every night. You will see a group that will play with a high intensity, no-quit attitude, and carry such pride to be an Estevan Bruin. Putting on that Bruins sweater is an honour, and I look forward to working toward the goal of bringing a championship back to Estevan.”
The Bruins begin their spring training camp today.