Nick Tarnasky Returns as Head Coach of U17 AAA North Stars for 2025-2026 Season

Nick Tarnasky Returns as Head Coach of U17 AAA North Stars for 2025-2026 Season

RED DEER, ALBERTA — Red Deer Minor Hockey is thrilled to announce that Nick Tarnasky will return as Head Coach of the U17 AAA North Stars for the 2025-2026 season.

After taking over the team on October 30, 2024—when the North Stars were off to a challenging 0-5-1 start—Nick led the team to an incredible turnaround, finishing the regular season with a record of 24-7-0-3. His leadership and commitment to player development not only revitalized the team, but also propelled them to a berth in the Hockey Alberta Provincials—a major accomplishment that capped off a remarkable season.

Nick’s success was recognized league-wide, as he was named the U17 AAA AEHL Coach of the Year for 2024-2025. His ability to create a positive, high-performance environment and bring out the best in his players has been a key factor in the team’s resurgence.

A veteran of 245 NHL games and over 750 professional games in the AHL and KHL, Nick brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and a deep understanding of the game. His ties to Alberta hockey run deep, having played his own U15 AAA and U18 AAA years in Leduc.

"We are incredibly excited to have Nick return behind the bench for another season," said Jason Stephens, General Manager of Red Deer Minor Hockey. "What he accomplished this year was nothing short of remarkable. Qualifying for Provincials and earning Coach of the Year honors speaks volumes about the culture he’s building here. We can’t wait to see what’s next."

With Tarnasky returning, the North Stars are poised to build on this season’s momentum and continue establishing a program where players are motivated to develop, compete, and succeed.