Stuart Philps Appointed National Men’s Team Head Coach for 2026 & 2027 IIHF World Championships
Published Tue 26 Aug 2025
Ice Hockey Australia (IHA) is proud to announce the appointment of Stuart Philps as the head coach of the National Men’s Team for the 2026 and 2027 IIHF World Championships.
Philps brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as head coach of the National Women’s Team and currently leading the Canberra Brave in the Australian Ice Hockey League (AIHL). Under his leadership, the Brave claimed the Goodall Cup in 2024, while the team prepares for the AIHL Finals in 2025, showcasing his ability to build winning teams at the highest level of Australian ice hockey.
In accepting the appointment, Philps shared his enthusiasm for the opportunity:
“I am honoured to be entrusted with coaching one of our national teams. I'm excited to work with this generation of talented players, athletes who bring intelligence, skill and passion to the ice. We have the ingredients for something special, and I look forward to building a team that plays a cohesive, fast and agile style of hockey, one that gives us the best chance to succeed on the international stage.”
IHA General Manager, Adam Woolnough, praised Philps’ appointment, saying:
“Stuart has consistently demonstrated his ability to lead, inspire and achieve results at both the national and AIHL levels. His experience with the women’s program and his championship-winning success with the Brave are testament to his coaching pedigree. We are confident that under his leadership, the National Men’s Team will be well-prepared to compete strongly on the world stage.”
Ice Hockey Australia also extends its sincere thanks to outgoing head coach Matti Luoma, who has served the Mighty Roos with passion and commitment. His dedication to the program and leadership behind the bench has been greatly valued, and IHA is grateful for his outstanding contribution to Australian ice hockey.
IHA congratulates Stuart on this appointment and looks forward to supporting him and the National Men’s Team as preparations begin for the 2026 IIHF World Championships.
