KIRKLAND LAKE, Ont. – The Kirkland Lake Goldminers are proud to announce the hiring of Dean DeSilva as the organization’s new Head Coach for the 2026-27 season.
Dean brings an exceptional combination of experience, leadership, player development, and recruiting expertise to the Gold Miners organization. Throughout his coaching career, he has helped develop:
• 31 NHL Drafted Players
• 14 World Junior Team Players
• 29 OHL Drafted Players
• 3 Stanley Cup Champions
• 23 NCAA Players
Dean most recently served as Head Coach of the Swift Current Broncos and previously spent five seasons in the WHL as Assistant Coach with the Everett Silvertips and Vancouver Giants. During his tenure in Everett, the Silvertips recorded three consecutive 45+ win seasons and an outstanding 171-75-26 record.
In addition to his CHL experience, Dean has been heavily involved with Hockey Canada and Team Ontario programs at the national and international levels, including the IIHF Youth Olympics, Canada Winter Games, and multiple U17 development camps and events.
Dean is recognized professionally for his commitment to team culture, player development, communication, and long-term planning. His coaching philosophy focuses on maximizing player potential through accountability, skill development, attention to detail, video analysis, and relationship building while creating a close-knit culture that positively impacts both the team and the community.
An experienced Canadian Hockey League coach with extensive connections throughout junior, collegiate, and professional hockey, Dean brings a deep understanding of the evolving recruiting landscape across Canada, the NCAA, and Europe. His established relationships and recruiting abilities will provide Gold Miners players with valuable guidance and opportunities as they pursue their athletic and academic goals.
Dean’s leadership, mentoring, and communication skills have made him highly respected by players, families, staff, and colleagues throughout his career. Dean strongly believes that education and life skills are lifelong assets and that hockey serves as a platform to help young athletes grow both personally and professionally.
A three-time Coach of the Year recipient, Dean brings a proven track record of success, integrity, and development to Kirkland Lake.
Please join us in welcoming Dean and his family to Kirkland Lake as we begin an exciting new chapter for Gold Miners hockey.
