Wranglers Announce Key Hockey Operations Updates Ahead of 2025-26 Season

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 20, 2025

Sylvan Lake Wranglers Announce Key Hockey Operations Updates Ahead of 2025-26 Season

Sylvan Lake, AB - Fresh off their 2025 Heritage Junior Hockey League (HJHL) Championship victory, the Sylvan Lake Wranglers Hockey Club is excited to announce strategic updates to its hockey operations and coaching staff. These changes, announced today by Team President Dale Cowan, reflect the Wranglers’ ongoing commitment to building a championship-caliber program focused on leadership, development, and community.

Garritty Transitions into General Manager Role
Team President Dale Cowan announced that after six successful seasons as both Head Coach and General Manager, Pat Garritty will transition into the role of General Manager. This move allows Garritty to step back from bench duties and focus fully on the long-term direction of the organization.

“I took over as the HC/GM in the 2019-20 season to help transition the move to Sylvan Lake. Well, six seasons later, I’ve decided to make the transition off the bench and into the GM role. I am grateful for the opportunity and the trust this organization has put in me over the past six seasons. It has been so rewarding to see the vision come to reality,” said Garritty.

Lloyd Cox Promoted to Head Coach
Effective immediately, Lloyd Cox will serve as Head Coach and Director of Player Personnel. Cox has been instrumental in player development and now steps behind the bench to lead the Wranglers into their next chapter.

“I’m honored to step into this role and continue building a winning culture in Sylvan Lake,” said Cox. “Our focus remains on developing talent and fostering a team-first mentality.”

Pete DeGraff Joins as Assistant Coach and Assistant GM
The Wranglers proudly welcome Pete DeGraff as Assistant Coach and Assistant General Manager. DeGraff brings a wealth of coaching and development experience:

• Six years with the Olds Grizzlys (AJHL) as Assistant Coach, Assistant GM, and Business Manager

• Turnaround success as Head Coach with the Red Deer Vipers Junior B

• Over 15 years with Red Deer Minor Hockey, earning multiple provincial championships

• Development roles with Sylvan Lake Hockey School, Tom Bast Hockey School, Cross Ice Developments, and Olds Grizzlys Skill Academies

• Playing experience at Junior A and professional levels, including time with:

  • Penticton Knights (1986 Centennial Cup Champions)

  • Red Deer Rustlers (AJHL), Dutch First Division

“Pete is a huge hire for our hockey Club”, adds Garritty.  “He brings so much knowledge, experience and resume speaks for itself.”

Key Returning Staff
The Wranglers are pleased to confirm the return of several vital contributors for the 2025-26 season:

• Andy Sinclair – Goaltender Coach

• Trent “Chetter” Herbert – Trainer

• Cayman Pederson – Equipment Manager

Celebrating Contributions and Looking Ahead

The organization extends heartfelt thanks to two valued team members whose journeys are taking exciting new directions:

• Scott Ferguson, who is stepping away from coaching to focus on family as he and his wife prepare to welcome their second child

• Austin Downey, who is advancing his coaching career with a new role as Assistant Coach for the Sutter Fund U18 AAA Chiefs

“We grew as an organization the minute Scott joined our coaching staff,” said Garritty. “An excellent player in his own right, but his knowledge of the game combined with natural leadership skills had a huge part in our success.” added Garritty.  “We’re grateful for the leadership of Scott and for Austin's care of our players. We are excited for what Lloyd, Pete, and our returning staff will bring to the table. Our program continues to grow, and this staff is the right group to lead the Wranglers into a new chapter.”

2025-26 Sylvan Lake Wranglers Hockey Operations Staff

• General Manager – Pat Garritty

• Head Coach/Director of Player Personnel – Lloyd Cox

• Assistant Coach/Assistant GM – Pete DeGraff

• Goaltender Coach – Andy Sinclair

• Trainer – Trent “Chetter” Herbert

• Equipment Manager – Cayman Pederson

For media inquiries, please contact:
Pat Garritty
General Manager
Sylvan Lake Wranglers Hockey Club
403-872-1629
garrittyhockey@gmail.com