The Winnipeg Monarchs are excited to announce the appointment of Zach Franko as the team’s new Head Coach and General Manager.
“We are beyond excited to welcome Zach into the Monarchs organization. Zach comes highly respected by his former colleagues and his values align well with what has been built here in Winnipeg. He has a strong background in the game of hockey and will provide strong leadership. – Monarchs Governor Chet Pickard
As GM and Head Coach, Franko will be responsible for overseeing the teams strategic direction, player development, and on-ice performance. Franko’s appointment is seen as a step forward in building a new era of Monarchs hockey and building momentum for the future.
A proud Winnipeg native, Franko brings a wealth of experience and a strong hockey pedigree to the Monarchs organization. His playing career includes four seasons in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with the Kelowna Rockets and Kootenay Ice, followed by a four-year U SPORTS stint with Acadia University and the University of Manitoba. He also played three seasons of professional hockey in the ECHL and Europe.
Franko transitioned to coaching in 2022 with the St. Boniface Riels of the Manitoba Major Junior Hockey League. In 2024, he joined the Swift Current Broncos as an Assistant Coach, helping guide the team to a 34-29-1-2 record and a berth in the 2025 WHL Playoffs.
“I’m really excited about the opportunity,” said Franko. “The Monarchs have a strong tradition of player development and resources to make this a great place to play! I am looking forward to working with the organization, our fans, sponsors, and most of all, the players to build a positive hardworking culture within the league and our community! It’s great to be back in Winnipeg and to get started in our world-class training facility at the hockey for all centre.”
Please join us in welcoming Zach Franko to the Monarchs family!