Rocky Mountain RoughRiders Announce 2026-27 Head Coaches
The Rocky Mountain RoughRiders are proud to announce their head coaching staff for the 2026-27 season. The coaching lineup includes Greg Vanover (13O), Steve Quailer (14U), Duncan McIntosh (15O), Eric Ballard (16U), and Doug Smail (18U).
“We are extremely excited about this coaching group and the leadership they bring to our organization,” said Steve Quailer, Director of Hockey Operations. “Each coach offers a unique combination of experience, passion, and commitment to player development. Together, they create a staff that will continue to elevate our program and prepare our athletes for success both on and off the ice.”
2026-27 Tier I Head Coaches:
13O - Greg Vanover: A 25-year veteran coach entering his ninth season with the RoughRiders, Vanover brings extensive experience in player development, USA Hockey leadership roles, and program management. He is widely respected for his focus on development, accountability, and preparation for junior-level success.
14U - Steve Quailer: As Director of Hockey Operations, Quailer brings elite playing and coaching credentials, highlighted by a standout USHL career, NCAA Division I leadership, and professional playing experience. Since joining the RoughRiders, he has guided multiple teams to championship success, including a CAHA State Championship, while building a culture of excellence, discipline, and accountability. His ability to develop high-level players and mentor young athletes makes him one of the premier youth coaches in the region.
15O - Duncan McIntosh: A former RoughRiders player and current program leader, McIntosh enters his second season as 15O head coach and sixth with the organization. Known for his player-first approach, he combines high-level playing experience with a passion for mentorship and development.
16U - Eric Ballard: Entering his second season with the Rocky Mountain RoughRiders, Ballard brings over two decades of elite coaching experience and an exceptional hockey résumé spanning junior, AAA, collegiate, and international competition. His leadership includes over 200 NAHL games as a head coach and general manager, national and district roles with USA Hockey, and international coaching experience with Team USA. Ballard is widely recognized for his ability to identify, develop, and advance players to junior, collegiate, and professional pathways.
18U - Doug Smail: A former NHL veteran with a 16-year professional playing career, Smail brings world-class experience and over two decades of coaching and instruction. His background includes collegiate, professional, and international hockey, providing elite mentorship for RoughRiders’ top-level athletes.
The Rocky Mountain RoughRiders continue to build one of the nation’s premier youth hockey development programs, committed to developing elite student-athletes in a positive, competitive, and supportive environment.
Tryout information for the 2026-27 season can be found on our website under Programs → 26-27 Tier I Tryout Information.