Kevin McClelland, Wichita Thunder

Head Coach

Kevin McClelland was named the 12th head coach in Wichita Thunder history on April 26, 2010 and promptly put Wichita back on the CHL map. In his first season behind the bench, McClelland guided the Thunder to a record of 34-26-6 and their first playoff appearance since the 2006-07 season. Thanks to the quick turnaround McClelland finished as runner-up for the 2011 CHL Coach of the Year Award.

The four-time Stanley Cup Champion and former fourth round selection of the Hartford Whalers in the 1980 NHL Draft has had two previous stints as a coach in the CHL, most recently serving as the head coach of the Colorado Eagles (2008-09 & 2009-10). With the Eagles, McClelland was 87-30-11 making the CHL Finals in 2009.

During his time with the Mississippi RiverKings, McClelland was named CHL Coach of the Year following the 2007 season after seeing his team go 39-19-6.

During his NHL career, McClelland totaled 1,672 penalty minutes in 588 career NHL games while chipping in 180 points. The tough forward helped the Edmonton Oilers win four rings in a five-year period (1984-88).