Abbotsford Canucks sign five players, new head coach

ABBOTSFORD — Six new bodies are joining Abbotsford’s own 2025 Calder Cup champions this coming AHL hockey season.

On Friday, July 17, the Abby Canucks announced Ryan Papaioannou as the team’s fourth head coach, taking over Manny Malhotra’s former spot since he was assigned to lead the Vancouver Canucks last month.

• Vancouver Canucks name Manny Malhotra new head coach

“Ryan has a unique talent for teaching and relating with players.,” said Richard Seeley, Abbotsford Canucks general manager. “His reputation as a communicator and someone who holds individuals and teams to high standards are the exact qualities we are looking for in the leader of our team.”

The three-time AJHL Coach of the Year previously spent 16 years coaching and managing the Brooks Bandits, winning five AJHL titles and one BCHL title.

Abbotsford also signed forwards Quinn Emerson and Ryan St. Louis, blueliners Tim Rego and Gavin White and goaltender Mitchell Weeks to one-year AHL contracts earlier that week.

Fans can find out what’s in store for the new members online through the Abbotsford Canucks’ schedule for the 2026-27 season.