The West Coast Renegades’ growth has continued with the hiring of Sean Wilmert and Katie Kleinendorst to the 2016-17 coaching staff.

Wilmert will take the reins of the 13U Bantam American team, while Kleinendorst will help with the development of girls hockey in Utah.

“We are very pleased at WCR to bring such high-level coaches to our organization,” said Renegades director of hockey operations Adam Bartholomay. “Both Katie and Sean come with a wealth of coaching knowledge and background. Further continuing the development of the players in the state has been our ultimate goal and now breaking into younger players and girls is a great thing for us and the state of Utah.”

Wilmert played NCAA Division I hockey at Minnesota State University and enjoyed a seven-year professional career, which included time in the San Jose Sharks organization.

“I am really looking forward to the 2016-17 season with the West Coast Renegades,” said Wilmert (pictured, with family). “This opportunity to work with and develop young hockey players with the same dreams and goals I had growing up is a way of paying it forward and giving Utah players the same opportunity that I had to develop and pursue my dreams.”

Kleinendorst is another former NCAA D-I player (University of New Hampshire) and is on the same page with the rest of the West Coast staff.

“We have all the tools we need right here in Utah to start something great,” said Kleinendorst. “I am very excited about the possibility to work with these young athletes with tremendous potential. I want to share my knowledge and passion, as well as be a good influence to these young women who love hockey. I strive to find the best in a person and motivate them to perform at that level consistently.”

— Matt Mackinder