Ryan Fox is back with the Flin Flon Bombers, but this time he’s not in uniform.
The former Bombers forward is serving as the team’s strength and conditioning coach this season.
Fox said his time with the Bombers and in the Western Hockey League is an asset when it comes to working with the current group.
“My experience during my career definitely helps,” said Fox, who is originally from Creighton. “The higher the level, the harder you have to work in practice and workouts. Training a 24-man roster, I brought in my fiancée Morgan [Bryson] with her personal training knowledge. As a team we can provide a better program for the players with both of our backgrounds.”
Bombers head coach Mike Reagan noted that in early workouts Fox has set high standards.
As well, Reagan said players can relate to Fox, who wrapped up his junior career as a Bomber in 2011, and that he knows Reagan and his expectations.
Off the ice, Fox and his fiancée became owners of Sal’s Fitness in Flin Flon earlier this year.
“When you find something you love doing, it doesn’t become a job anymore,” Fox said. “We have a vision and will continue to work hard to achieve our goals.”
Fox is also currently pursuing his personal training certification. This past June he completed his electrical apprenticeship and received his journeyman certificate.
After playing a game for the Bombers and two for the WHL’s Calgary Hitmen as a 15-year-old, Fox spent his 16- and 17-year-old seasons in Cowtown.
As an 18 year-old he suited up for the WHL’s Kootenay Ice before returning to Flin Flon to play his final two junior seasons.
Fox enjoyed the opportunity to play junior hockey so close to home. What did he like most?
“I’d have to say having my parents being able to watch the majority of the season,” Fox said. “If it wasn’t for them I wouldn’t have been able to pursue a career in hockey and achieve what I’ve accomplished thus far.”
