Jeff Kyrzakos takes over as Head Coach for Kitchener Rangers
Posted Jul 29, 2026 11:04:23 AM.
Last Updated Jul 29, 2026 11:04:29 AM.
The Kitchener Rangers have announced Jeff Kyrzakos as their new Head Coach for the upcoming 2026-2027 season.
Kyrzakos isn’t new to the organization, spending time as the team’s Associate Coach and Assistant General Manager.
In a news release, the Rangers say that Kyrzakos played a pivotal role in helping Kitchener win their fifth ever OHL Championship and third-ever Memorial Cup win.
In a statement, General Manager of the Kitchener Rangers Mike McKenzie says he is excited for the team’s new coach.
“He has been an integral part of our staff for the last three years and has a wealth of experience in the OHL. We feel he is the right person to lead our hockey club moving forward. I look forward to working with Jeff and seeing him take this step in his coaching career.”
The change comes after the team announced that last year’s Head Coach Jussi Ahokas was joining the Colorado Eagles.
Kyrzakos has worked in different roles through the OHL, but this will be his first job as the Head Coach.
In the media release, Jeff Kyrzakos shared his excitement about this new role.
“The Rangers are an historic organization that I always admired from afar prior to coming here. Having been here for three seasons – my appreciation for the organization, the history and our fans has grown. The people who work here are some of the best. I moved here a year ago and I love being a part of this community. I can’t wait to get started. Thanks to Joe Birch, Mike McKenzie and Jussi Ahokas for bringing me in here three years ago, and for the opportunity that lies ahead. I want to wish both Jussi Ahokas and Jordan Dekort the best of luck. We will miss them as coaches but more importantly as people. Lastly, I look forward to continuing to work with Brad Flynn and Brandon Merli who have each played integral roles in building the great foundation of this organization over our years here in Kitchener. I am very appreciative of the work they put in every day to make this team the best it can be.”
The beginning of next season will mark a decade of work in the OHL for Jeff Kyrzakos.
He also spent two seasons as a player for the Owen Sound Attack for the 2004-2005 and 2005-2006 seasons. Recording 79 points and 33 goals in 64 games through the 2005-2006 season.
The team hopes that Kyrzakos can continue strengthening the team’s focus on developing players and sustaining a winning and accountable culture on and off the ice.
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