WINDSOR — The University of Windsor has tapped former National Hockey League forward Todd Warriner as the interim head coach of its women’s hockey program, the school announced Thursday.
Local hire with international experience
Warriner, 52, returns to Windsor after serving as an assistant coach with the Lancers’ men’s team from 2019 to 2023 and most recently working as a head coach in Germany’s professional leagues for the past two seasons. He succeeds Deanna Iwanicka, who stepped down in April after eight seasons leading the women’s team.
Warriner grew up in Blenheim, Ont., and was selected fourth overall in the 1992 NHL draft by the Quebec Nordiques. Over a 14-year NHL career he appeared in nearly 500 games with six clubs, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Tampa Bay Lightning, Phoenix Coyotes, Vancouver Canucks, Philadelphia Flyers and Nashville Predators. He was also a member of Canada’s silver-medal team at the 1994 Lillehammer Olympics.
Expectations and role with the Lancers
In his interim capacity, Warriner will oversee player development, game preparation and the day-to-day operations of the women’s program as the Lancers prepare for the 2026–27 campaign.
“His experience at the highest levels of hockey, including his skill development knowledge and his understanding of what it takes to build a successful culture will be invaluable to our student-athletes,”
said Stephanie White, director of athletics for the Lancers, in a statement. She added that Warriner’s familiarity with Windsor’s hockey programs should allow him to make a positive impact both on and off the ice.
“I am really excited for the opportunity to get to work with this talented group of student-athletes and to help continue to move this program forward,”
Warriner said in the announcement.
What this means for the program and the city
The Lancers’ decision to appoint an interim coach with both local ties and international coaching experience reflects an emphasis on continuity while the university conducts a longer search for a permanent leader. For Windsor, where university sports are an important part of the local cultural fabric, the move will be watched closely by players, alumni and fans.
Key considerations for the coming season include:
- Player development and retention as the team adapts to new leadership.
- Recruiting and program culture ahead of the 2026–27 season.
- How Warriner’s professional and international experience translates to the U SPORTS environment.
Background: Warriner’s playing and coaching résumé
Warriner’s résumé combines high-level playing experience with recent coaching roles abroad and prior involvement in Windsor’s hockey community:
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| NHL draft | 4th overall, 1992 (Quebec Nordiques) |
| NHL teams | Toronto, Tampa Bay, Phoenix, Vancouver, Philadelphia, Nashville |
| International | Silver medallist, 1994 Olympics (Lillehammer) |
| Recent coaching | Head coach in Germany’s pro leagues (last two seasons) |
| Windsor connection | Assistant coach, Windsor men’s team (2019–2023) |
University athletic departments often appoint interim coaches to ensure stability while conducting a thorough search for a permanent hire. For student-athletes, an interim coach can bring fresh perspectives and new systems, but also introduces uncertainty about long-term direction.
For Windsor-area hockey followers, Warriner’s arrival offers a clear signal that the university is prioritizing both competitive experience and continuity within its athletics department. The Lancers will head into the 2026–27 season with a coach who knows the campus and the community and who brings a mix of NHL pedigree and recent professional coaching practice.
The university did not indicate a timeline for a permanent hiring decision or whether Warriner will be considered for the full-time position.
Coverage for NEXO RADAR will follow developments as the Lancers prepare for training camp and the next season.
