MEET OUR 2026-27 LEADERSHIP TEAM
Our coaching staff is defined by a commitment to excellence and a wealth of professional experience. Below, you can find a brief introduction to the coaches who will be guiding our athletes this season.
We encourage you to read their bios and visit their individual pages (via the links below) to understand their unique approach to leadership, player development and long-term success.
We believe great athletes are built by great coaches. Join our community and learn how our coaches help Central Ontario Wolves athletes thrive.
U-10 Ryan Ramsay: [email protected]
Following a successful five-year tenure in the OHL, Ryan Ramsay transitioned into a professional playing career that lasted over ten years. His North American journey included an NHL contract with the St. Louis Blues, AHL stints with Peoria and Worcester, and time in Alaska. Ramsay eventually moved to Germany’s top professional hockey league (DEL), where he became an offensive threat and consistent top scorer. After a hand injury prompted his retirement in 2015, Ramsay moved into leadership roles. He brings over a decade of experience in coaching and management. The key pillars of Ramsay’s U10 development program include Accountability, Hard Work and Having Fun. He currently serves as the Head Coach and General Manager of the Haliburton County Huskies (OJHL), works as a player development and skills coach with the Peterborough Petes (OHL), and continues his involvement with the Central Ontario Wolves as Head Coach.
U-11 Lucas Labelle: [email protected]
We are excited to have Lucas Labelle as part of the Central Ontario Wolves coaching staff. He will be taking the lead as the U11 head coach for the upcoming season. Lucas grew up playing in the Greater Toronto Hockey League (GTHL). After minor hockey Lucas went on to play 4 years of Major Junior in the Quebec Minor Junior Hockey League (QMJHL). He then turned professional at the age of 20 and spent 8 years playing professionally with time spent in the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) and the Southern Professional (SPHL). He has been coaching for 8 years with various minor hockey teams and is a lead instructor with Durham Hockey Development. Three words to describe Lucas’ coaching philosophy are Preparation, Pride and Passion. After a successful playing career, Lucas is committed to devoting his time to give back to the next generation of players. He loves coaching this age group, believing it’s the perfect stage to develop skills, structure, and character. What he enjoys most is their innocence and freedom — they’re simply kids who love the game! Outside the rink, Lucas is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys golfing, fishing, and paddle boarding. He also works with horses every day and has three of his own at home.
U-12 Kevin Hayward: [email protected]
Coach Kevin Hayward is back behind the bench and excited to build on the achievements of the past season. COWHA is thrilled to have Kevin leading our U12 team this year. Kevin grew up in the local AAA circuit before making his mark in Junior hockey with Stouffville and Niagara Falls. He has spent the last two decades coaching at various levels, including high school and minor hockey, bringing a wealth of knowledge back to the Central Ontario Wolves.
For Kevin, it’s about more than just the scoreboard; his focus is on building a strong Team Culture and a commitment to Personal Growth. He is passionate about giving back to the game that shaped him and helping young players develop into strong people and players. When he isn't at the arena, Kevin loves spending time with his family, playing slo-pitch, or hitting the links (watch out—he can drive a golf ball a staggering 350 yards!).
U- 13 Josh Barker: [email protected]
The Central Ontario Wolves are excited to welcome back Josh Barker as the U13 Head Coach. Since transitioning to AAA coaching four years ago, Josh has built a reputation for propelling athletes to the next level through a philosophy rooted in the Power of Great Habits. He believes that through dedicated practice, players build the "unshakable confidence" necessary to succeed.
Known for his legendary patience and "drill for everything" approach, Josh excels at pushing players beyond their comfort zones while keeping the game rewarding. What truly sets this U13 program apart is the elite, non-parent bench staff, featuring three seasoned coaches—Josh, Blake, and Jason—who provide a professional culture bolstered by individual video reviews.
Off the ice, Josh is an avid golfer and traveler who enjoys time with his dog. Players might be surprised to know that Josh also brings an eye for talent to the rink, serving as an OHL Scout for the Owen Sound Attack.
U-14 Stephen McCusker: [email protected]
The Central Ontario Wolves are excited to announce Stephen McCusker as the U14 Head Coach for the 2026-2027 season. Stephen’s deep hockey roots began in the MTHL (now GTHL), playing AA and AAA before moving on to play Junior B for the Pickering Panthers. With over 25 years of coaching experience, Stephen spent his first 15 years with the Goulding Park Rangers before elevating to the AAA level with prestigious programs including the Markham Waxers, York Simcoe Express, and Richmond Hill Coyotes.
Stephen’s coaching style is defined by a Firm, Positive, Patient approach. He finds the U14 age group particularly rewarding, as it represents a prime window for players to refine their focus and accelerate their individual skill development. When he’s not behind the bench, Stephen stays active with home renovations, road trips, and his lifelong love of dancing!
U-15 Carter Bursey: [email protected]
The Central Ontario Wolves are proud to announce the return of Carter Bursey as Head Coach for the U15 team. A former player for the North Durham Warriors, Okanagan Hockey, and the PJHL’s Georgina Ice, Carter brings a wealth of experience to the bench. His coaching resume includes tenures with the North Durham Warriors, Mississauga Reps, and the Oshawa Minor Generals, in addition to his previous time with the Central Ontario Wolves.
Carter’s coaching philosophy is built on a foundation of Dynamic Action and Steadfast Perseverance. He views the U15 level as a pivotal stage for player development, focusing on building the confidence necessary for athletes to surpass their personal and team goals. As these players approach their U16 draft year, Carter is dedicated to mentoring them into high-performing athletes and strong young men. Outside of hockey, Carter is a lifelong coach—having started at age 12—and is an avid fan of boxing and mixed martial arts.
U-16 Ash Goldie: [email protected]
The Central Ontario Wolves are pleased to welcome back Ash Goldie as the head coach for the U16 team. Ash has been a part of COWHA’s coaching staff for 8 seasons, leading his team to an OMHA Championship in their U14 season. Ash began playing minor hockey in London, Ontario. He then played NCAA at Michigan State University followed by playing professionally for 9 years in the USA, Denmark, Switzerland, Germany, Japan and Scotland. He has been coaching for twelve years in Aurora, North Durham and Central Ontario Wolves. Ash’s coaching philosophy can be described as Firm, Fair, and Detailed. He enjoys supporting the athletes as they develop their skills both on and off the ice while creating a positive team environment. He finds that skills, hockey IQ and confidence are all developing rapidly at this age. Outside of the rink, Ash enjoys playing golf!
U-18 Keith Leslie: [email protected]
Keith Leslie is excited to return to the Central Ontario Wolves for his eighth season with the association, serving as the U18 Head Coach. Drawing from his background as a former player for the Oshawa Legionnaires and Port Perry Mojacks, Keith has built an extensive coaching career that includes tenures in the PJHL with Uxbridge and Little Britain, as well as AAA experience in Oshawa and Clarington. Now entering his second year with the U18 age group, his philosophy is rooted in Structure, Accountability, and a "Team-First" mentality. Keith is dedicated to preparing his players for the transition to Junior hockey by instilling professional habits and character. Away from the rink, the father of six is an avid golfer who cherishes time spent with his family.