You can remove the interim tags from behind the Vernon Vipers' bench.
The B.C. Hockey League club has announced contract extensions and promotions for Lukas Lomicky and Colton Sparrow. The pair of assistants took over head coaching duties with 10 games remaining in the 2023-24 seasons after the organization parted ways with head coach and general manager Jason McKee.
Lomicky, 36, from Czechia, will be the head coach and director of hockey operations. Sparrow will remain an assistant coach but adds the portfolio of director of player personnel and recruiting.
“It is an honour to be chosen as the next head coach of the Vernon Vipers,” said Lomicky, a former head coach in the Kootenay International Junior Hockey League with the Revelstoke Grizzlies, and was an assistant coach with the Prince George Spruce Kings of the BCHL prior to landing in Vernon.
“I want to thank John and Tom (team owners Glen) for their belief in me and I look forward to leading this group. Vernon is one of the premier franchises and a special place in the BCHL. With a history of great alumni, on ice success and a passionate fan base, I am looking forward to working with our staff and players to create a winning culture. Our returning players and incoming recruits will understand what it takes to be a Vernon Viper.”
Sparrow, 30, is a Vernon native. He played his entire junior career with the Vipers, and has been with the club's coaching staff for four years.
“I am really excited about extending my time in Vernon,” said Sparrow. “This organization is very close to my heart, and I look forward to building on what we’ve started in front of the best fans in the BCHL.”
Lomicky and Sparrow led the team last season on a strong surge towards the end of the regular season with a record of 7-2-1 in their last 10 games and an impressive showing into the second round of the playoffs before falling in five games to the eventual Interior Conference champion Penticton Vees.
Vipers' executive vice-president Todd Miller said both coaches did "a tremendous job in a tough situation late in the year." He called Lomicky and Sparrow "excellent choices" to lead the hockey operations and on-ice product.
“Lukas joined our organization in 2022 and has been a great addition,” said Miller “He is a tireless worker that doesn’t leave anything to chance. His attention to detail, work ethic and hockey IQ are second to none. He is well-liked by the players and understands what it takes to win a championship.
“Colton has been with our team on and off for many years. Being a hometown Vernon product, he understands the tradition and winning ways of this franchise. He has been instrumental in our recruiting process for the past couple of seasons and now will lead that part of our operation along with his bench duties. He is a Vernon Viper through and through and is a great choice to fill this role going forward.
”I look forward to working with both gentlemen and believe they have what it takes to bring a championship to Vernon.”
Season Tickets for the 2024-2025 season are on sale now! For more information on how you can be a part of the excitement for next season, call 250-542-6022 or click HERE.
