Wade Klippenstein, a prominent figure in hockey and native of Boissevain, Manitoba has been named the new Director of Hockey Development at Athol Murray College of Notre Dame. Klippenstein, who broke into the NHL with the Colorado Avalanche, will officially start his new role on July 1, 2024.
The position drew a deep pool of candidates, but Klippenstein’s extensive hockey background, familiarity with Hounds hockey as a parent and professional, and vision for the future made him the standout choice.
Klippenstein has been involved in hockey for nearly his entire life. In 1988, he played for the Yorkton Terriers of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) before moving to Fairbanks, Alaska, to join the University of Alaska Fairbanks. From 1989 to 1993, he scored 72 goals for the Nanooks, placing him fifth all-time in team history. His outstanding performance earned him a spot in the NCAA East/West Shrine Game and recognition as an NCAA All-Star. Drafted by the Quebec Nordiques, Klippenstein’s professional playing career spanned the AHL, ECHL, and WCHL.
Transitioning to coaching and management, he began as an assistant coach for the Saskatoon Blades in 1997 and quickly advanced within various hockey organizations. His first GM/Head Coach role was with the Yorkton Terriers, the team he once played for. He also served as an assistant coach at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and held several key positions in the WHL, including a successful stint with the WHL Champion Brandon Wheat Kings during the 2015-16 season.
In 2016, Klippenstein joined the NHL’s Colorado Avalanche as an amateur scout and was promoted to Director of Amateur Scouting in 2021. His tenure with the Avalanche includes playing a significant role in drafting standout players such as Cale Makar, Bowen Byram, and Alex Newhook, culminating in the team’s 2022 Stanley Cup victory.
Klippenstein and his wife Ashley have three sons: Bowman (Class of 2024), Easton, and Dresden. They are excited about their new chapter at Athol Murray College of Notre Dame. “We are thrilled to welcome Wade Klippenstein to our team,” said Charles Skipper, Ph.D., President of Athol Murray College of Notre Dame. “His experience and vision for the future of Hounds hockey will be invaluable as we continue to build on our storied program’s success.”
