Warriors coach resigns

Photo: Facebook

Rylan Ferster has stepped down as head coach of the BC Hockey League's West Kelowna Warriors.

He made the move Saturday, just two days before the start of training camp.

Ferster leaves after seven seasons behind the bench, leading the club to a BCHL title and RBC Cup championship in 2016.

He was the longest serving, and winningest coach in franchise history, posting a 210-150-35 regular season record. He guided the team to a 31-32-1 playoff mark.

Ferster was hired as head coach in July of 2011 after one season with the Revelstoke Grizzlies in the Junior B KIJHL.

Prior to that, Ferster held head coaching positions with the BCHL Victoria Salsa and Salmon Arm Silverbacks.

Assistant coach Geoff Grimwood will assume the head coaching duties on an interim basis.

Grimwood was hired six weeks ago to replace Shae Naka, who stepped down to accept a job with the Pursuit of Excellence program.

He spent the past three seasons as head coach and GM of the Kindersley Klippers of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League.

Grimwood will be the fourth head coach in the 12 year history of the club.

Ferster's departure is the latest in a series of employees and volunteers who have stepped down from their positions since the end of last season.

The Warriors are in the midst of training camp at Royal LePage Place.

They open the pre season at Royal LePage Place against Penticton Wednesday and Salmon Arm Friday.