Bears lock in team to return to AIHL playoffs for 2024

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The Sydney Bears have announced their team to return to the AIHL playoffs this season.

The most notable change is behind the coaching bench, with Ron Kuprowsky heading to the Central Coast Rhinos. The Bears have brought in coach and former goaltender Tyler Huberty from Oklahoma University, who is looking to take the Bears back to the Goodall Cup Final for the first time since 2019.

Chicago native Adam Kadlec will wear the red and black this year. The 24-year old centre has not skated since prior to COVID due to injuries, but has a hockey resume that features stints in the WHL, OHL USHL and NAHL.

Samuli Vainionpaa makes the journey south to Australia from Finland to add some offensive firepower this year. The 190cm, 94kg Finn comes to Sydney from the Finnish system, most recently with Koovee, but can also man the blueline when required.

The Bears have also poached up and coming talent Brody Lindal from the Melbourne Ice, coming off of an impressive rookie season. Lindal has spent the northern hemisphere season in the SIJHL. Joining him is Jake Riley, most recently with the Ice and Brave after debuting with the Adelaide Adrenaline.

Tommy Steven and Jake Ratcliffe have both departed for the CBR Brave, while Ellesse Carini has ventured south to Melbourne and will play for the Ice this year.

Bears regulars Tyrell Clare, Tim Newmark, Ryan Annesley, Joey Gunner and the Moncrieff trio all return as well as veterans Adrian Esposito, Tomas Landa and Michael Schlamp.

Anthony Kimlin and Brian Funes will lead again from the crease and blueline respectively, with Kimlin heading to Serbia for another IIHF World’s campaign at the end of April. James Downie and Dane Brumm will handle the goaltending duties in his absence.

The Bears take on the Ice Dogs in the Battle of Sydney this Saturday April 6^th. Tickets here.