The torch is being passed from a remarkably successful run leading the Bisons.
Ryan Rarick is moving on from his general manager role with the Carstar Okotoks Bisons after earning the head scout position with the Calgary Jr. A Canucks with longtime contributor Trevor McFarlane stepping into the GM chair.
“Over the years, this program has turned into the most successful Jr. B program in Canada and it’s all thanks to an incredible volunteer base this program has had for the past 39 years,” said McFarlane. “Twenty league finals appearances, 17 regular season championships, 14 playoff championships, 10 provincial medals and one Western Canadian championship medal.
“It’s incredible when you think just how good this team has been over the years. This is all thanks to volunteers.”
McFarlane acknowledged Rarick’s dedication over seven years to building the Bisons and putting them in a position to win three league championships in a row, along with three provincial medals, with the opportunity to build on that in the coming seasons.
“The list of accomplishments over the past seven years speaks volumes about Ryan’s commitment to excellence and his unwavering passion for the sport,” McFarlane said. “Ryan understands what it takes to build a winning program, surround yourself with those who foster a culture of excellence, resilience, sportsmanship and who share the same passion for these young men as he does.
“In doing so, this program continues to cultivate a sense of community where the saying ‘Once a Bison, always a Bison’ holds true.”
Rarick joined the AJHL’s Calgary Canucks as head scout during the 2023-24 season, helping the team capture its 10th league championship last week over the Whitecourt Wolverines.
“I’m the first to admit that, honestly, the players are the best recruiters,” Rarick said. “You guys did most of it and, I guess lucky for me, I get to take some of the credit, but, really thanks to the players.
“And thanks to the Bisons for giving me the opportunity that they gave me, the things I’m able to do now are truly because of the success the Bisons had and I’m thankful for that.”
McFarlane has been a player, from 1989-92, coach, volunteer, board member and now for the first time, a general manager for a team his family is inextricably linked to.
Trevor’s brother Jay is the team president, also played, coached and was a GM, with their father Bill a president and GM during the early years of the organization in the mid 1980s.
The team will be chasing history over the next two seasons in looking to break the franchise’s own record of four straight HJHL titles from 2011-14.
“Brad Cobb and the entire organization have been excellent role models in creating an environment where these young men must figure out what it takes to win, both on and off the ice,” McFarlane said. “In doing so, they’ve set the stage for this team to make HJHL history in the next two years and I’m very excited to do my part for these young men.”
