The Bonnyville Pontiacs are excited to announce a new path forward for the organization – one that we believe positions us to excel on and off the ice for years to come, and upholds a standard of consistent excellence in the Alberta Junior Hockey League.
A re-structure within the core positions of hockey operations, as well as business operations, will see two key pieces return to the front office.
Neil Langridge and Chad Nelson will both return to the organization in similar, but adjusted roles and responsibilities.
These changes show that the Bonnyville Pontiacs are positioning themselves for long-term, sustainable success. It is a move done for stability, amidst an ever-changing junior hockey landscape.
“This structure worked well for the past three years, but the Board felt there could be better communications between the various stakeholders as well as more oversight,” said President Ron Rusnak.
Langridge’s new title is the Vice-President of Operations with an expanded role that will oversee the entire organization including the General Manager.
Previously, the title of associate general manager was split between the two, focusing on business and player personnel. This change will clearly delineate roles and responsibilities.
“This year, we adjusted the structure of the organization slightly to help implement these improvements,” said Rusnak.
The team restructure also includes the announcement last week of Chad Mercier returning as head coach, a position he had from 2006 to 2013.
Vice-President Neil Langridge says he is excited for the responsibility, as he’s been a part of the team’s business operations, coaching staff, and management team since 2015-16.
“Being given the trust to help navigate our community’s franchise through some of the most challenging times in 33 years in the AJHL, is a challenge that isn’t taken lightly,” Langridge said.
“I believe the new structure sets the team up for the best chance at success and to ensure the team remains viable and sustainable, but also pushes the competition to try and achieve something that has never been done before in 33 years – winning an AJHL Championship.”
Speaking about the team’s record last season and the challenges of replacing 21 players, General Manager Chad Nelson thanked Nikkel for his contributions to the organization.
“In saying that, we feel we now have a core foundation of players to build around as that always was the true focus throughout last season,” said Nelson.
“We are excited for Chad Mercier to lead this group and get the Pontiacs back to the upper echelon of the league. In the last twelve months, we have grown the organization in a variety of areas from scouting, skill and skating development, to strength and mental skills resources.”
Work is well underway in preparation for the 2025-26 season, including the signing of players for the next season, and the ongoing work of retaining and strengthening the team’s roster.
“Bringing in Chad Mercier will set a foundation of work ethic and accountability that will push our group to where we need to be as an organization. We feel we have people sitting in the right chairs now and with that comes the opportunity to bring a championship to the Lakeland region that is far overdue.”
