ANCASTER, ON - Redeemer Royals Unveil New Hockey Leadership Team Ahead of 2026–27 Campaign
Redeemer University Athletics is pleased to announce a new leadership structure for the 2026–27 Redeemer Royals Men's Hockey program, and excited to announce that Isaiah Thornback will serve as the Director of Hockey Operations and Head Coach for the Redeemer Royals men's hockey program for the 2026–27 season.
"We are thrilled to have Isaiah step into this leadership role," said Director of Athletics James Kryger. He has demonstrated a deep commitment to our student-athletes and a clear vision for where Redeemer Hockey can go. His passion for developing young men, combined with his understanding of our mission and values, makes him the right leader to guide this next chapter of Royals Hockey."
Thornback will lead the program both behind the bench and through the broader direction of hockey operations.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to lead the Redeemer Royals hockey program," said Thornback. "We have a great group of student-athletes, and I am excited to continue building a program that competes with purpose, develops leaders, and represents Redeemer well on and off the ice."
Kryger added: "Our hockey program continues to grow in competitiveness and reputation, and we believe this new structure positions us well for long-term success. Isaiah brings strong leadership, a servant mindset, and an excitement to continue building a program that competes with excellence while reflecting Christ in all we do."
As part of the Royals' summer hockey meetings, Thornback also announced the team's on-ice leadership group for the 2026–27 season. Hudson Kosloski has been named captain, while Jake Voskamp, Dawson Abrahams, Ty Storie, and Tucker Copeland will serve as assistant captains.
Thornback spoke about the selection process and the leadership group heading into the season:
"Leadership is not simply about wearing a letter, it's about serving others, setting the standard, and creating the culture we want to live every day. This group has earned the trust of their teammates and staff through consistency, work ethic, and character."
Specifically on naming Hudson as captain, Thornback added:
"Hudson embodies the type of leader we want our program to become. He leads with humility, competes with purpose, and continually puts the team first. He has earned the respect of our locker room and will do an excellent job leading this group into the season."
The Royals will continue to compete in the UNYCHL West Division, alongside Niagara University, St. Bonaventure University, and SUNY Niagara, while also crossing over with the Metro Division, which includes Canisius University, Buffalo State University, Erie Community College, and the University at Buffalo.
Redeemer enters the season following another successful campaign that saw the Royals capture the UNYCHL West Division Championship and advance to the AAU National Tournament, where they reached the quarterfinal round before falling to the eventual national runner-ups.
The 2026–27 season officially begins on Friday, September 18, 2026, when the Royals host SUNY Niagara in their home opener at Dave Andreychuk Arena.
Additional hockey leadership positions supporting the bench and program operations remain in development. Individuals interested in joining the Redeemer Royals hockey staff are encouraged to contact Coach Isaiah Thornback for more information.
