The Toronto Sceptres are naming Pascal Rheaume as the team’s newest head coach ahead of the 2026-27 PWHL season. Rheaume most recently spent time with the Bridgeport Islanders of the AHL as an assistant coach, but became available when the club relocated to Hamilton and shuffled up their front office and coaching staff.
With more than 14 years of coaching and player development experience, Rheaume has had stints coaching in the AHL, ECHL, and QMJHL amongst others.
“We are excited to welcome Pascal Rhéaume to the Toronto Sceptres as our new Head Coach. Pascal brings a fresh perspective, a new voice, and valuable professional experience to our organization. Throughout our search process, it was important for us to find a coach who could build meaningful relationships, while also creating an environment that challenges players to grow and perform at their highest level,” said Gina Kingsbury, Sceptres General Manager. “Pascal is known for his commitment to hard work and fostering a close-knit locker room. We believe Pascal’s leadership, experience, and approach to player development will have a tremendous impact on our group as we continue to build and strive towards new heights as a professional organization.”
Brother of newly minted PWHL Detroit GM, Manon Rheaume, Pascal also brings years of playing experience to the table as well. The 52 year old was a member of the 2002-2003 Stanley Cup winning New Jersey Devils team, and also captured the AHL’s Calder Cup with the Albany River Rats in 1994-95 as well.
Rheaume suited up for 318 regular season NHL games, and another 45 games worth of playoff games, while also having stints in the IHL with the Flint Generals, and in Austria with Vienna.
“I am honoured to be joining the Toronto Sceptres and cannot thank Gina and the leadership group for their trust in what I can bring to the team,” said Rhéaume. “I’m looking forward to getting started here, working with the players and staff, and meeting the incredible fans here in Toronto. Excited to get started!”
The native of Quebec City takes over behind the bench for Troy Ryan who was recently appointed General Manager and Head Coach of the expansion PWHL San Jose franchise this offseason.
With their new head coach now in place, Toronto will turn their attention to finalizing their draft board ahead of the 2026 PWHL Draft which will take place on Wednesday, June 17th in Detroit.
Photo: PWHL