By Chris Brown

Brooks Bandits add former player to coaching staff

Jul 21, 2023 | 1:44 PM

BROOKS, AB – The Brooks Bandits have again tapped a former player to fill a vacancy behind the bench.

Dakota Mason played with the Bandits from 2011-13 and is now the team’s new assistant coach. The Bandits won the Alberta Junior Hockey League title in both of Mason’s years with the team and the Bandits’ first national championship in 2013.

“I’m very excited to be joining such a great and well-respected organization and have the chance to learn from one of the best coaches in all of junior hockey,” said Mason in a release from the team.

“With my two years of playing experience in Brooks, my wife and I are very familiar with the city and organization. We are extremely excited to get there and integrate our two children into the community. I want to thank the Swan Valley Stampeders organization for everything they have done for us over this past season.”

Following his playing career, Mason has been an associate coach with the Princeton Posse of the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League and spent last season as an assistant coach with the Swan Valley Stampeders of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League.

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Mason takes over for Nick Prkusic on head coach and GM Ryan Papaioannou’s staff. Prkusic stepped down this week to pursue a chance to play professional hockey. He played with the Bandits from 2013-17.

“Dakota played for the organization 10 years ago and was a phenomenal talent on the ice. Fast forward and he had 2 years of junior hockey coaching experience under his belt and has a passion for all things related to development,” said Papaioannou.

He adds Mason’s work ethic will fit the culture of our program and he’ll play a key part in the success of the Bandits forward group next season.

Next season starts soon for the Bandits.

They’ll be in Sweden for the U20 Super Challenge Aug. 15-20. Training camp begins on Aug. 26 and the Bandits’ first exhibition game is Sept. 5 at home against Okotoks.