(l to r) Steve Marr and Brayden Toma (Image credit: Kamloops Blazers).
Blazers Assistant Coaches

Blazers go to prep hockey well, sign pair of assistant coaches

Jun 11, 2025 | 11:19 AM

KAMLOOPS — The Blazers selected the duo who will succeed former associate coach Don Hay behind the bench.

In a news release issued Wednesday (June 11), the Blazers announced hiring of Steve Marr, a Kamloops native, and Brayden Toma as new assistant coaches for the 2025-26 Western Hockey League (WHL) season.

Prior to joining the Blazers, Marr was the head coach for the West Van Academy Prep U-18 team from 2017 to 2020 and the head coach for the North Shore Warriors U-15 prep team from 2023 to 2025. He was also the Warriors’ director of hockey development.

As a player, Marr grew up through Kamloops Minor Hockey before playing four seasons for the Medicine Hat from 2001 to 2005. He was the Tigers’ captain for two seasons, and led the team to a WHL championship in 2004.

“I was fortunate to coach Steve in Medicine Hat for two seasons,” Shaun Clouston, Blazers general manager and head coach, said. “Steve possesses passion and strong communication skills that allow him to connect with today’s players. With his experience as a player and a coach, we are excited for what he will bring to our team.”

From Ardrossan, Alberta, Toma spent six seasons as head coach of the Northern Alberta Xtreme U-15 team from 2017 to 2024. He spent the 2024-25 season as St. George’s School U-18 prep team.

“Brayden has had tremendous success with many current and future WHL players at the CSSHL level,” Clouston added. “Brayden will be a great addition to our team and a valuable resource to our players.”

The Blazers also announced Wednesday that longtime assistant coach Chris Murray will not return to his part time role. Murray, a former NHLer who won two Memorial Cups with Kamloops, had been working with the Blazers since the 2014-15 season.

The Blazers’ 2025-26 home opener is m Saturday, Sept. 20, against the Spokane Chiefs at Sandman Centre.