PWHL Las Vegas Announced New Coaching Staff
The team has filled out its bench ahead of the inaugural season debut in December.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in People
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PWHL Las Vegas has completed its coaching staff by appointing Ryan Smith, Jonathan Matsumoto, Brad Kirkwood, and Brendan Flanagan. These additions will work alongside head coach Kim Weiss to lead the squad.
Why it matters
The appointments complete the leadership structure for the franchise as it prepares for its first professional season. A finalized staff is essential for the team as it builds toward a December opening night.
The new staff brings significant experience, including Jonathan Matsumoto who played over 1,000 games across various leagues and Brad Kirkwood who has spent three seasons with the Toronto Sceptres.
The players
Kim Weiss
She serves as the head coach for the PWHL Las Vegas team.
Ryan Smith
He is an assistant coach who previously served as the associate head coach of the Regina Pats.
Jonathan Matsumoto
He is an assistant coach who competed in over 1,000 professional games during his playing career.
Brad Kirkwood
He is the team goaltending coach who brings experience from three seasons with the Toronto Sceptres.
Brendan Flanagan
He is the video coach who previously led operations and video analysis at St. Lawrence University.
The details
Ryan Smith joins as an assistant coach following his tenure with the Regina Pats, while Jonathan Matsumoto also joins as an assistant. Brad Kirkwood takes on the role of goaltending coach, and Brendan Flanagan joins as the video coach after managing operations at St. Lawrence University.
Timeline
Head coach Kim Weiss was appointed in June 2026.
The coaching staff was announced on September 30, 2026.
The season opener against Detroit is scheduled for December 6, 2026.
Market Landscape
The expansion into Las Vegas positions the franchise within the rapidly evolving landscape of professional women's sports. This staffing move signals a strategic commitment to building a competitive foundation within the league's established operational framework.
Local fans and ticket holders can expect a defined team identity as the franchise prepares for its first home game at T-Mobile Arena. This finalized coaching group directly influences the team's competitive strategy and performance during the debut season.
The takeaway
The completion of the coaching staff marks a critical milestone for the newest franchise in the league. With leadership now in place, the organization can fully focus on its upcoming debut and performance on the ice.
What happens next
PWHL Las Vegas will debut its inaugural season on December 6, 2026, when the team faces Detroit at T-Mobile Arena.
Further reading
For more information on team leadership appointments, visit People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KSNV.
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