After nearly two decades behind the Flin Flon Bombers’ bench, Mike Reagan says the chance to leave as a champion made the timing right to begin a new chapter with the Kelowna Rockets.
Reagan is moving to the Western Hockey League organization after 19 years with the Bombers, where he helped transform the club into a perennial contender and reached 600 career SJHL victories.
“After 19 years in Flin Flon and winning a championship last year, the timing was just right for a new challenge,” Reagan said. “I’m not getting any younger, and I’ve always wanted to pursue different opportunities.”
Reagan said he “absolutely enjoyed” his years in Flin Flon and described the support from the organization and its fans as second to none. However, he said finally accomplishing the goal of bringing a championship back to the community allowed him to move forward.
“I’m not sure if I could have left without at least getting one championship,” he said. “It just felt fulfilling and like I could move on.”
Reagan said he is proud of the winning program and culture developed during his tenure. The Bombers became a regular contender under Reagan’s leadership.
The opportunity in Kelowna developed quickly after several people sent Reagan the job posting. He said his conversations with the Rockets showed the organization’s preferred playing style aligned with his coaching approach.
“I’m extremely excited about the opportunity that I have in Kelowna,” Reagan said. “The main goal is to be a good resource and help in any way that I can, and just bring some of my experiences from the past to the organization.”
Reagan also described the reaction from the Flin Flon community following the announcement as humbling.
“It’s nice to see that you’ve made an impact on so many people, and I hope in a positive way,” he said. “I hope that I’ve left the organization in a better place than when I took over.”
Reagan’s official start date with Kelowna is August 15. He said the move west is happening quickly, but he is looking forward to the challenge while remaining grateful to the Bombers, the SJHL and the fans who supported him throughout his career.
In the meantime, former Bombers Assistant Coach Cole McCaig will take over as Head Coach of the team.
(Photo courtesy Facebook/Kelowna Rockets)