Aaron Rome Returns to WHL as Assistant Coach for Brandon Wheat Kings

Aaron Rome, the former Vancouver Canucks defenceman, is stepping into a familiar role as an assistant coach with the Brandon Wheat Kings in the WHL. This marks a significant return for Rome, who has a storied history with the organization.

Having played in the NHL for eight seasons, including three with the Canucks, Rome transitioned to coaching last season, leading the Wheat Kings’ U-17 AAA team. His previous coaching experience with the Wheat Kings includes serving as a skills coach from 2017 to 2019 and as an assistant coach during the 2016-17 season. In his inaugural season as an assistant, he helped guide the team to a record of 31-31-7-3, securing a fourth-place finish in the WHL’s East Division.

Rome’s journey began in the WHL, where he spent five full seasons. He started with the Saskatoon Blades from 1998 to 2001 before moving to the Kootenay Ice for two seasons. His WHL career continued with the Swift Current Broncos, and he concluded with the Moose Jaw Warriors during the 2003-04 season.

Following his junior career, Rome played for the Anaheim Ducks and Columbus Blue Jackets before joining the Vancouver Canucks. His time in Vancouver was highlighted by the Canucks’ 2011 Stanley Cup run, although it was marred by a four-game suspension during the Final for a hit on Boston Bruins forward Nathan Horton.

The Wheat Kings are shaping their roster for the upcoming season, featuring Ducks prospect Brady Turko, defencemen Ilari Kapanen and Josh McGregor, along with forward Colin Grubb. Marty Murray continues to serve as the head coach and general manager of the team.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.