Gardner Morey transitions to coaching role
Cara Gardner Morey has been named the new head coach for the Vancouver Goldeneyes, transitioning from her previous role as the team’s general manager during its inaugural season. The announcement was made on July 30, 2026, marking her return to coaching after a period in management.
Gardner Morey expressed her enthusiasm for returning to the bench, a role she previously held for over a decade. She indicated that a period of reflection during the offseason led her to realize her passion for coaching and where she believes she can make the most significant impact for the team. She will now coach the team she largely assembled through the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) draft and free agency.
Jayna Hefford, PWHL Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations, commented on the appointment, stating that Gardner Morey played a crucial role in establishing the Goldeneyes during their first season. Hefford highlighted Gardner Morey’s track record in developing athletes and building high-performing teams, expressing support for her in this new capacity.
The Goldeneyes finished their inaugural PWHL season in sixth place with 37 points and an overall record of 9-3-4-14, missing the playoffs. Gardner Morey, who is 47 years old and from Hensall, Ontario, replaces Brian Idalski, who was dismissed after the season. Idalski has since taken on a head coaching position with Syracuse University’s women’s team.
A history of leadership and development
Before joining the Goldeneyes, Gardner Morey spent 14 seasons with Princeton Women’s Ice Hockey, serving as head coach from 2017-2025. During her tenure at Princeton, she built a highly respected collegiate program. Under her leadership, the Princeton Tigers secured their first ECAC Tournament championship, claimed an Ivy League title, and made multiple appearances in the NCAA quarterfinals. Her teams also set a program record with 26 wins in a single season, and she concluded her time as the second-winningest coach in the program’s history.
Gardner Morey’s experience extends beyond collegiate hockey. She has held various coaching positions with Hockey Canada at the U18, Development, and Senior National Team levels. Additionally, she served as a development camp coach for the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers, further showcasing her commitment to athlete development at elite levels.
Her background as a two-sport All-American in ice hockey and field hockey at Brown University, coupled with professional playing experience in the original NWHL, underscores her deep understanding of the sport. She also holds a Master of Education from Arizona State University. In June, she was recognized with a BCBusiness 2026 Women of the Year Community Builder award for her contributions during the Goldeneyes’ inaugural season and the team’s impact on Vancouver.
Building on a familiar foundation
Gardner Morey will coach a roster that she largely influenced in its formation. The Goldeneyes held the first pick in the 2026 PWHL Draft, selecting American defender Caroline Harvey. She noted the advantage of coaching players she believes in and helped bring into the franchise, a luxury not all professional coaches experience.
As of this week, Vancouver has 16 players under contract, with the league’s website indicating that a contract for Harvey has yet to be announced. Harvey is expected to strengthen a defensive unit that includes captain Ashton Bell and all-star Sophie Jaques.
Gardner Morey envisions a team characterized by speed, physicality, and a high-scoring offence. She aims for the Goldeneyes to be a fierce and challenging opponent, playing a creative style of hockey that entertains fans. Her familiarity with the players and staff, developed during her time as general manager, provides a head start heading into the upcoming season.
The league will now lead the search for Vancouver’s next general manager. Gardner Morey considered the possibility of holding both general manager and head coach roles simultaneously, a path that Troy Ryan will take for expansion San Jose next season in the 12-team PWHL. However, she ultimately chose to focus entirely on coaching, driven by her passion for the role and her belief in its potential impact on the franchise’s advancement.
Source: thepwhl.com
