Current Coaches (Sun County Panthers)

Jim Quigley

Jim Quigley is a long-time hockey school owner, skills instructor, coach and mentor in Windsor and Essex County. He has coach at all levels and ages across the region. He is excited to share his expertise with the next generation of Panthers.×

Laine Parent

Coaching Achievements:
2022 Schmalz Cup Champion (PJHL Ontario Jr.C)
2018 OMHA U18 AA Champion  

Values:
This staff advocates for a development-first approach, emphasizing exposure to various game situations that promote adaptability, decision-making, and confidence on the ice. The coaching staff utilizes small-area games and high-intensity drills to foster hockey IQ, strong body positioning, and situational awareness in each player while leveraging systems in all 3 zones. "Games are an opportunity for growth, and practices are where we build the skills to succeed. Our goal is to create competitive athletes who are prepared for any situation the game throws at them, now and in the future."  

Coaching Career:
2024 - 2025: Sun County Panthers Head Coach (U13)
2023 – 2024: Belle River Jr. Canadiens A Head Coach (U16)
2018 – 2023: Lakeshore Canadiens Assistant / Video Coach (Jr. C) 2015 – 2018: Belle River Jr. Canadiens AA Assistant Coach (U15 – U18)  

Playing Career:
Goaltender Jr. C: Wheatley Sharks (2009-2010), Napanee Raiders (2010-2011) & Kingsville Comets (2012-2013)

Jr. A: Smith Falls Bears (2011-2012), Soo. Thunderbirds (2011-2012) & Kingston Voyageurs (2010-2011)    ×

Ryan Best

Ryan Best, born in Matsqui, British Columbia, is a prominent figure in the hockey community, particularly in the Windsor, Ontario area. He has an extensive background as both a player and a coach.    

Playing Career: Ryan's playing career includes time during the Sun County Panther’s inaugural season over 25 years ago. Ryan ended up playing in the WSHL for the Phoenix Polar Bears, Utah Jr. Grizzly’s, and fighting for the National tittle with Sacramento Capital City Thunder. Ryan ended his career with the Windsor St. Clair Saints playing in the OHASr.   

Coaching Career: Transitioning into coaching, Ryan has held several notable positions including two years with the Dallas Titans in the WSHL as the leagues youngest head coach. Coming back to Ontario, Ryan transitioned into AAA with Windsor as an assistant coach for two years. Moving back to his roots, Ryan was placed as a head coach with the Sun County Panthers AAA organization from 2017 to 2022. In recognition of his coaching excellence, he was named the ALLIANCE Hockey Coach of the Year for the 2019-20 season.  

During the 2022-23 season Ryan took on the role of assistant coach for the women's hockey team at the University of Windsor. The following year he assisted with Essex 73's in the PJCHL. During the 2024-25 season Ryan moved back to the head coaching position for the U15 Sun County Panthers where the team is currently holding a playoff position. Ryan currently holds 65% winning percentage as a coach.   

In addition to these roles, Ryan is the owner and head instructor of Defensive Edge Hockey, a position he has held since 2010. He has also helped contribute to multiple teams and organizations at various levels as a primary consultant. Ryan Best's dedication to hockey in the Tecumseh and Windsor regions is evident through his ongoing commitment to developing young talent and contributing to the sport's growth at various levels.×