‘It’s about winning the cup’ – New Head Coach Christer Nylund brings lofty goals to Sydney Bears

The Bing Lee Sydney Bears are pleased to announce the appointment of Christer Nylund as Head Coach for the 2026 Australian Ice Hockey League (AIHL) season.

The 44-year-old Finnish-born coach brings a wealth of experience to the Sydney Bears, having coached clubs in Sweden, Norway, and Finland.

Additionally, Nylund has extensive international experience, serving first as Assistant Coach of the Norwegian U18 Men’s team (2018-2020), then as Head Coach of both the Norwegian U18 Men’s team (2020-2023) and the Norwegian U20 Men’s team (2023-2025).

It has been an exhaustive process for the 2024 H Newman Reid winners to appoint a new head coach, and the club is confident they have appointed the right person to achieve the club’s ambitions.

“The search was extensive,” Sydney Bears Governor and Director of Hockey Operations Nathan Graham confirmed. “We attracted a high volume of interest, more than we had anticipated.

“By the end, the process became comprehensive, and we had the luxury of speaking to many highly credentialled coaches and some really great people. It was an enjoyable process to be a part of.”

From Nylund’s perspective, the club’s recruitment process was impressive. “They (club Governor Nathan Graham and club captain Ryan Annesley) were really professional throughout the whole process. I was happy with how they updated me from day one.

“It gave me the feeling that it was the place I wanted to be. I am really happy about it. Straight away, I had the feeling that this could be special.”

So, what can fans expect from the new bench boss?

“I’m professional, always prepared,” Nylund responded. “I am a keen believer in structure, discipline, and hard work. But we also need to have fun while we’re doing it. I want to win.

“I want the team to be a hard-working team that is difficult to play against every night. I also understand that on the roster, we have a lot of offensive quality. That is something we need to use. We are playing for points and playing for the fans. Fans want to see exciting hockey.

Moving halfway across the world can be a daunting process at the best of times, but it is clear Nylund relishes a challenge. “I think it’s a good thing to throw yourself into a totally new experience and culture,” Nylund suggested without hesitation.

“I have expectations of myself that I can bring something new to the club and to the team.” Nylund also explained that he was looking forward to learning more from Australian hockey, describing the relationship as mutually beneficial.

According to Bears Governor and Director of Hockey Operations Nathan Graham, Nylund’s resumé and personality made it clear to the Bears that he was the right person for the role.

“Christer brings a strong blend of experience and character,” Graham asserted, “and we’re confident he’s well-suited to excel in and around an AIHL environment – he’s so methodical and prepared but has a unique ability to be scrappy and navigate the common variables when required, which should translate well.

“He’s worked across junior and senior programs successfully, emphasises communication, and will bring strong foundations to our club, starting with leadership. He’s also fiercely competitive and wants to see players achieve and develop.

“Christer has transitioned seamlessly, and we’re thrilled to have him.”

As Head Coach, Nylund will play a pivotal role in helping the team fulfil its short-term and long-term goals.

“He fits our strategy of competing for a championship now, whilst making strong contributions to player development and improving key components of our hockey operations, which will hopefully deliver dividends for years to come,” Nathan continued.

“Fundamentally, he wants to help us get better, now and into the future.”

Nylund has been following the team from afar throughout the interview process and finally arrived in Australia earlier this week, and has a message for the fans. “I’m really looking forward to seeing you at the rink.

“We’re going to do our best on the ice to get the results you want, and to play the kind of hockey that gets you going. I’m really looking forward to meeting you all!

“I get the feeling that the community – fans, sponsors, volunteers – is a really big part and an important part of the club,” Nylund continued. “I want to bring a smile to the faces of everyone working around the team, so we really enjoy ourselves. You should be proud to be a Sydney Bear.”

Make no mistake, Nylund knows the tonic for the Sydney Bears community, the guaranteed recipe for a joyful fanbase. It matches his ambitions for the 2026 AIHL season.

“It’s about the cup. It’s about winning the cup.”

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