Ryan Leonard

Mallard’s have went all in and hired Ryan Leonard, a highly respected Junior A hockey coach and executive with more than two decades of experience developing elite hockey talent across Canada and the United States. The 46 year old Leonard, a native of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario has built a reputation as a tireless recruiter, player developer, and leader dedicated to helping young athletes advance to higher levels of the game.

Leonard began his junior hockey career as a player in the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League (NOJHL), where he competed for five seasons before transitioning into coaching and management. His coaching journey started with the Blind River Beavers before advancing to Head Coach and General Manager/ Owner in the NOJHL, where he led a successful program in Elliot Lake which he relocated his team to Cochrane known as the Crunch until 2019 before moving over to the CCHL.

Throughout his career, Leonard has earned recognition for his success in both the NOJHL and the Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL). He has coached and managed more than 1,000 Junior A games while helping countless players advance to NCAA, U SPORTS, Major Junior, and professional opportunities. His commitment to player development, team culture, and organizational growth has made him one of the most respected figures in junior hockey. Leonard is known to demand a lot from his players on and off the ice and is not afraid to hold player’s accountable.

Leonard has been involved in franchise ownership, team operations, and hockey administration, demonstrating a unique ability to build competitive programs on and off the ice from the ground up. His leadership was instrumental in establishing and growing successful Junior A organizations while maintaining a strong focus on community involvement and athlete development.

Leonard is excited for this opportunity with the Mallards, allowing him to grow while continuing his mission of developing players and helping them achieve their collegiate and professional hockey goals. The move marks the next chapter in a distinguished career that has spanned more than 20 years and multiple premier junior hockey leagues.

Known for his passion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to player advancement, Leonard remains dedicated to creating opportunities for young athletes while building winning cultures wherever he coaches.

“I’m honored and excited to join the Mallards organization as Head Coach and General Manager. I want to thank the Mr. Bailey and his family for giving me this opportunity. I look forward to building a strong culture and establishing a winning environment that our players, staff, and fans can be proud of. Our goal is to make the Mallards a respected program within the North American Hockey League, one built on character, accountability, and a commitment to developing young men both on and off the ice. I’m eager to get to work and build something special in the Twin Cities” — Ryan Leonard