Blades Add First-Ever Female to Coaching Staff in Franchise History

The Saskatoon Blades added to their coaching staff Tuesday, announcing Christine Bumstead as a Performance Coach for the upcoming season, the first woman to be in that position in franchise history.

The 27-year-old Winnipeg product will be with the Bridge City Bunch when her main duties as an assistant coach with the U of S women’s hockey team allows. The Blades open their W-H-L regular-season schedule Saturday in Regina, then host Prince Albert Sunday at 4 at SaskTel Centre. Following are Les Lazaruk’s conversations with Christine Bumstead and with head coach Brennan Sonne, plus the news release from the Blades…..

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sept. 19th: Blades welcome Christine Bumstead to coaching staff

Saskatoon, SK – The Saskatoon Blades are excited to welcome Christine Bumstead as a Performance Coach for the 2023-24 season.

The addition makes Bumstead the first woman to ever be a part of the Blades coaching staff.

“I’m thrilled for the opportunity to join this incredible coaching staff, getting to work with this group of athletes, and be part of the Blades organization for what will be a very special season,” said Bumstead.

The 27-year-old from Winnipeg, MB is currently an assistant coach for the University of Saskatchewan Huskies women’s hockey team, and will continue in that role this season while with the Blades.

Bumstead’s spent the last two seasons with the Huskies women’s hockey club, helping coach them to a 2022 Canada West Finals, a bronze medal at USPORT Nationals in 2022, and a 32-22 record during that span.

In 2020, Bumstead was selected to join the NHL Coaches Association (NHLCA) Female Mentorship Group. Bumstead is also headed to the National Women’s U18 Championships in Dawson Creek, BC in November, coaching Team Manitoba.

“We’re thrilled to be adding another talented hockey mind and hard worker to our staff,” said Blades Head Coach Brennan Sonne

Welcome to the Blades family, Christine!