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PWHL Hamilton names Chelsea Walkland and Connor James as assistant coaches

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 4:02 AM

Last updated Aug 19, 2026

PWHL Hamilton names Chelsea Walkland and Connor James as assistant coaches
Summary

PWHL Hamilton has appointed Chelsea Walkland and Connor James as assistant coaches ahead of the team's inaugural 2026-27 season. Walkland joins from Bishop Kearney’s U19 team and has experience at Colgate University, where she won four ECAC championships. James, with a professional career that includes time in the NHL and international play, has served as head coach in the Burlington Eagles AAA program. Both coaches will contribute to the development of the new franchise under head coach Kris Sparre, with Walkland emphasizing community engagement and fan excitement around the program.

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By the Numbers
  • •Chelsea Walkland arrives from Bishop Kearney’s U19 women’s hockey team.
  • •Connor James previously coached the Burlington Eagles AAA program.
  • •Both coaches will support head coach Kris Sparre in team development.
  • •Walkland has experience coaching USA Hockey at the international level.
  • •James played in the NHL and has a rich professional playing history.
Latest Updates
  • 4:02 AMYahoo Sports — PWHL Hamilton Adds Two Assistant Coaches: Chelsea Walkland and Connor James
What they're saying
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PWHL Hamilton has added Chelsea Walkland and Connor James as assistant coaches, the first additions to head coach Kris Sparre’s staff ahead of the expansion team’s inaugural 2026-27 season.

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