JUNIOR OILERS STAFF
COACHING STAFF
JUNIOR OILERS BLUE COACHES
Nathan Papirny is back for the 2025-26 season. Widely recognized as one of the most respected and accomplished coaches in the league, Papirny continues to set the standard for excellence, leadership, and player development. In 2024–25, Papirny led Team Blue to a strong season, finishing 3rd in the North Division and 4th overall in the AEHL with a record of 23-9-5-1 (52 points). The team advanced to the U18 AAA AEHL North Semi-Final and made a solid run at the Circle K Classic, maintaining their competitive edge at the highest level. Beyond wins and standings, Papirny’s impact lies in his ability to instill a culture of integrity, accountability, and teamwork. His leadership style reflects the core values of the Junior Oilers organization and mirrors the Oilers' proud identity. A proven developer of talent, Papirny has helped produce countless Junior affiliations and Junior and Major Junior signings, with several players also earning AEHL awards and all-star recognition. Respected by players, families, and staff alike, Papirny’s passion, consistency, and mentorship make him a true cornerstone of the Junior Oilers program. As he returns for another season, we look forward to continuing the journey of excellence with Coach Papirny leading the way.
Team Blue Staff:
Nathan Papirny | Head Coach
John McMillan | Assistant Coach
Jason Papirny | Assistant Coach
Vacant | Team Manager
Dan Kordic | Skill Development Coach
Stephen Zipp | Skill Development Coach
Ian Gordon | Goalie Coach
Billy Moores | Coach Mentor
Bram Stephen | Coach Mentor
Rob Lee | Team Director
JUNIOR OILERS ORANGE COACHES
Lee Zalasky returns to the Junior Oilers program for the 2025-26 season. After an impressive second season behind the bench in 2024–25, Coach Zalasky continues to elevate the Junior Oilers Orange with his strong leadership, high standards, and commitment to player development. In his second season with the program, Zalasky once again led the Junior Oilers Orange to key milestones, including marking a second consecutive appearance in the U18 AAA AEHL North Final and earning a birth at the prestigious Circle K Classic. The team finished the 2024–25 regular season with a strong record of 21-12-2-3, earning 47 points over 38 games. Their performance continued to reflect the energy, pace, and physicality that have become hallmarks of a Zalasky-coached squad. Zalasky encourages his athletes to "be their best version of themselves" on a daily basis and a teammate who embrace a growth mindset. Zalasky’s resume speaks for itself. With experience as a coach at the U Sport, Team Alberta, and AAA levels, he’s proven his ability to develop athletes and drive results. Prior to joining the Junior Oilers, he led the Sherwood Park Ennis Kings U18 AAA to a standout 2022–23 season, and captured an AEHL Provincial Championship with CAC U16 AAA in 2021–22. Under Zalasky’s leadership, the players have continued to earn opportunities in the form of Letters of Intent (LOIs), seasonal Junior affiliation and spring camp opportunities. Additionally, Zalasky has been very supportive in assisting athletes whithin their life goals upon conclusion of their U18 AAA career which includes job opportunities or higher education. Coach Zalasky’s approach blends accountability, hockey IQ, and a strong team culture, creating an environment where players thrive both on and off the ice. We’re proud to have Lee Zalasky return for the 2025–26 season and can’t wait to see where he leads the team next. Let’s go, Orange!
Team Orange Staff:
Lee Zalasky | Head Coach
Brett Cox | Assistant Coach
Davis Murray | Assistant Coach
Nick Trudeau | Assistant Coach
Jeff Mahe | Team Manager
Dan Kordic | Skill Development Coach
Stephen Zipp | Skill Development Coach
Dave Rathjen | Goalie Coach
Billy Moores | Coach Mentor
Bram Stephen | Coach Mentor
Rob Lee | Team Director
JUNIOR OILERS WHITE COACHES
Joel Lenius returns for 2024-25 after a triumphant season as head coach, solidifying his reputation as one of the most respected mentors in U18 AAA hockey. Following a stellar season, where he clinched the AFHL U18 AAA Coach of the Year title, Lenius led his team to victory at the 2023-24 AFHL U18 AAA Provincial Championships. His leadership propelled the team to an impressive appearance at the Esso Cup, marking Edmonton's first visit in nearly a decade, where they secured a bronze medal finish.
Throughout his coaching career, Lenius has left an indelible mark on the hockey landscape, particularly with the Edmonton Pandas U18 AAA program. Over his four-year tenure from 2018-2022, he played a pivotal role in shaping one of the nation's most esteemed female U18 AAA programs. Under his guidance, the Pandas achieved unprecedented success, clinching numerous tournament and league championships while supporting over 40 young women in earning post-secondary scholarships.
Lenius's coaching prowess extends across various levels of the game, from NHL to NCAA, WHL to U Sport, AJHL, and AAA. Known for his teams' relentless pace, competitive spirit, and exceptional skill, Lenius fosters a positive culture that resonates with players and their families.
Beyond the rink, Lenius is revered as an excellent mentor and a favourite coach among players. His ability to promote and develop talent has been instrumental in helping countless players elevate their game to the next level.
As Joel Lenius returns to Team White for the 2024-25 season, the Junior Oilers program is thrilled to welcome back his wealth of experience, energy, and leadership. With Lenius at the helm, the team is poised for another season of growth, success, and camaraderie, as they continue to uphold the proud tradition of excellence synonymous with the Junior Oilers brand.
Team White Staff:
Joel Lenius | Head Coach
Megan Goebel | Associate Coach
Sage Sansregret | Assistant Coach
Jeff Willan | Assistant Coach
Isabelle Lajoie | Apprentice Coach
Alister Matthew | Team Manager
Dan Kordic | Skill Development Coach
Stephen Zipp | Skill Development Coach
Jamie McCaig | Goalie Coach
Billy Moores | Coach Mentor
Bram Stephen | Coach Mentor
Deborah Rhodes | Team Director