INDEPENDENCE, MO – The Kansas City Mavericks have been named the 2025–26 ECHL Hockey Operations Department of the Year, as determined by a vote of ECHL coaches.
The award is presented annually to the team judged to have the top hockey operations department in the league.
Kansas City’s recognition reflects the organization’s hockey operations structure and execution throughout the 2025–26 season. The Mavericks’ staff supported a roster that played 72 regular-season games, managed player movement across ECHL and AHL levels, and maintained player availability throughout the year. The team finished with 55 wins and 115 points while operating with a full hockey operations staff across coaching, medical, equipment, and performance areas.
“This is a tremendous honor and truly speaks volumes about the staff who make our organization run every day,” said General Manager and Head Coach Tad O’Had. “From our coaching staff to our training and equipment teams, this recognition reflects a collective commitment to excellence. It takes everyone—from our players and hockey operations staff to the entire support system—working together in unison to create something special.”
“I’m especially proud of the dedication and leadership shown by Brett Ferguson, PD Melgoza, Nick Potter, and Bryan Collier. Their efforts, along with the rest of our staff, embody the professionalism, passion, and teamwork that define our organization. This award is a reflection of that shared commitment, and we’re incredibly grateful to be recognized in this way.”
The Mavericks’ hockey operations staff includes:
Head Coach / General Manager – Tad O’Had (6th season)
Assistant Coach – Brett Ferguson (1st season)
Goaltending & Video Coach – PD Melgoza (1st season)
Head Athletic Trainer – Nick Potter (10th season; over 700 games with the Mavericks; two-time ECHL Athletic Trainer of the Year)
Head Equipment Manager – Bryan Collier (2nd season)
Assistant Equipment Manager – Tyler LaFollette (1st season)
Official Team Doctor – Dr. KC Doan (3rd season)
ECHL Hockey Operations Department of the Year Award
2025-26 Kansas City Mavericks
2024-25 Toledo Walleye
2023-24 Jacksonville Icemen
2022-23 Idaho Steelheads
2021-22 Toledo Walleye
