Hockey Operations

COACH | GENERAL MANAGER

Ryan Carlson
ryan@fightingwalleye.com

Originally from Hermantown, Minnesota, he has an extensive playing resume that includes time with the Steinbach Pistons (MJHL), the University of Wisconsin-Superior (NCAA), and the University of Manitoba (USports). He finished his playing career in the ECHL in the 2021-22 season.

ASSISTANT GENERAL MANAGER & DIRECTOR OF SCOUTING

Bryan Smeltzer
bryan@fightingwalleye.com

Bryan developed a passion for the game of hockey at an early age, and that passion has never dimmed.

After his competitive playing days ended, Bryan moved into coaching where he volunteered at all ages of minor hockey from IP1 to Midget. Joining the Thunder Bay Fighting Walleye junior B team for their inaugural season, he was head coach and assistant general manager of the squad from 2018-2020.

Born and raised in Thunder Bay, Bryan is married to wife Tiffany and has two children, Emily and Owen.

GOALIE COACH

Ryan Currie

Ryan was born, raised and played hockey in Thunder Bay.  He attended Lakehead University where he graduated with a B.A in Sociology. Ryan attended Niagara University in Niagara Falls,New York, graduating as an Emergency Medical Technician.  After University he attended Texas A&M TEEX in College Station, TX to attend Fire College and is now an acting Captain with Thunder Bay Fire Rescue.
Ryan has worked within minor hockey in Thunder Bay for many years. Working with goalies at Zulie’s Goalie Academy (now Giant Goaltending), Seventh Fire Hockey Academy, Thunder Bay AAA Kings, and Currie’s Goaltending Development and currently working with Hockey Canada for the NCCP National Goaltending Coach Certification.  Working with Thunder Bay AAA Kings U16 in 2022/2023 season, having both his goalies drafted to the OHL. Ryan hopes to work with Provincial and National High Performance teams in the future.

ATHLETIC TRAINER

Elora Ray

 

SENIOR HOCKEY DEVELOPMENT ADVISOR

Vern Ray

 

 

Headshot of Vern Ray