The Winkler Flyers would like to thank Justin Falk for all his work with the Flyers program as our Head Coach and General Manager this past 3 seasons. Justin will be departing The Flyers to advance his career and pursue a pro position. The transition comes on the heels of an extraordinary season in which Justin helped lead the Flyers to become the Turnbull Champions for the first time in 26 years.
Justin Falk has been a pivotal part of the Flyers success for the last 3 years, guiding the team both on and off the ice with his expertise and dedication. Under Justin’s leadership, the Flyers not only achieved a championship but have also developed a competitive and powerful program that has such a high standard for excellence.
“Justin has played such a critical role in the success of this organization both on and off the ice since he joined us for the 2021-22 season. The on-ice results speak for themselves, but it’s the amount of time, effort and care behind the scenes and what he put into this community that are crucial to making Junior Hockey in Winkler possible. We wish him nothing but the best as he moves on and look forward to watching his career progress over the years.” – Caleb Suderman, Winkler Flyers President
“Thank you to the Community and Board of Directors for the opportunity to Coach and General Manage in our home town. Within the last three seasons have come many incredible experiences for myself and family and we are forever grateful for the continued relationships that have been built and will carry forward in Winkler. Many people came alongside that shared the same community minded vision for a Junior hockey program and how it can correlate and benefit the development and growth of the young men that wear a Flyers sweater and pass through Winkler throughout their life journey. It is important to recognize the many people and places that give time and work hand in hand to help shape the culture and positive experience of those involved with the hockey club.
To the Board of Directors. Providing an opportunity for not just players, but staff to experience growth and relationships. Thank you for your guidance and support to myself, the staff and players.
To the corporate community, thank you for your generous support. The Flyers organization carries a special meaning to many different groups, from the children in Minor Hockey, to the elderly community, to the charitable foundations that the organization gives their time to. Your financial support is valued, appreciated, and necessary to allow a Junior hockey program to thrive right in the streets of your hometown. You don’t have to turn too far to find someone that has been impacted in a positive way by the young men in that locker room, my kids included, and it’s exciting to see that carry forward. Thank you for being a partner and making this possible.
To the many game day members that come alongside the organization that make Winkler Flyers game day, truly second to none. To be selfless with your time, belief and passion for the hockey club, it is very much appreciated. You are important, valued and are a part of the Orange and Black.
To the incredible support staff on the day to day over the years. Thank you to Ryan Sawatzky, Ashley Wall, Brody Giesbrecht, Sarah Derksen, Christy Cousins, Matt Giesbrecht, Big Jon, April Mickelson, Brittney Froese, Kim Thiessen, Ashley Froese, Grintich and the Orange Men, Brendan Neufeld, Andrew Clark, Dr. Sherwin Gacutan, Dr. Kurt Kauenhofen, Dr. Erin Gordey, Keith Bially, Riley Dudar, Mark Friesen, Pat Wiebe, Cody Wall, Dave Neubuhr, Betty Klassen, Cassandra Driedger. Your time and expertise provide invaluable service, care, mentorship and memories for these players and fans.
To Tyler Hildebrand and Shane Neufeld in Marketing and Game Day Operations. Being a branch right into the community and connecting the community to the team. Diligent and detailed at working alongside our partners to provide them an exceptional experience.
To our Hockey Ops Staff in Joe Ftoma, Cedric Chenier, Kyle Hampton, Blake Forsyth, Trevor Stokes. Tireless and passionate to help, an incredible group of hockey minds and friends.
To the City of Winkler and staff. The support and patience given, strong relationships forged, and a positive connection between the Flyers and the City.
The fellow Coaching Staff and friends. Coltyn Bates, Eric Fehr, Ryan White. Passionate, supportive, and like minded as we continuously pushed each other each day. Not only providing an opportunity for incredible growth for these young men both on and off the ice, but amongst ourselves. Your knowledge and kind hearts will continue to drive the next group of Flyers and their development.
Thank you to our billet families who have been instrumental in shaping the experiences of our players. Your generosity in welcoming these young men into your homes has not only provided them with comfort and stability but has also been a key part of their development both on and off the ice. Thank you for contributing so much to the success of our program and for being such an essential part of our story.
To the players past and present that played an impact in delivering a Championship to the community of Winkler this past season. To past Captains Jayden McCarthy, Trent Sambrook and Trent Penner. The extended voice that carried into the locker room as you were challenged. Excelling at the opportunities to lead and drive the standard higher not only for yourselves, but for future Flyers and the years to come. The culture and standard is high in Winkler and you players have bought in and created that.
Thank you again Flyers Family. Our family looks forward to continually following along and supporting the club!” – Justin Falk
Current assistant GM and Coach Coltyn Bates has been named interim General Manager and Head Coach while the Flyers organization is in the process of hiring Justin’s replacement. They expect a seamless transition moving into the 24-25 season.