The Sylvan Lake Admirals are adding a familiar face to their coaching ranks.

The senior AAA men’s hockey team has announced that Tyler Lightbown will serve as an assistant coach for the upcoming Chinook Hockey League season.

Lightbown is a seven year CHL veteran, having played with both the Innisfail Eagles and the former West Central Alberta/Rocky Rams.

The Sylvan Lake resident served last year as an assistant captain for the Rams, helping them win the provincial senior AA men’s hockey championship.

“When Jason Golden (former assistant coach) decided not to return this season, as he is heading back to the minor hockey coaching ranks, we had a void to fill,” said Admirals head coach and general manager Jason Stephens.

“Tyler was a guy I thought of right away, not knowing if he wanted to play again or take a step back. Tyler is a very passionate hockey player, has a ton of experience in our league, and we felt it would be a great fit for him to take a step onto the bench and help us build our program here in Sylvan Lake.”

Having competed as the WCA Rams last season, the club was subsequently renamed in the offseason and this will be the first season the Admirals compete in the senior AAA men’s hockey bracket.

“Tyler always puts in the time and effort and was a great leader for the Rams last year,” said Stephens, who along with his father Ted, relocated the franchise to Sylvan Lake earlier this year.

“I see that experience flowing over to the bench and he will be able to help us get better.”

The Admirals, who wrapped up training camp in Sylvan Lake this past weekend, have also added Brent Sage to the staff as an equipment manager.

Weldon