June 16, 2026 · 4:44 PM

The Arnprior Rivermen have officially announced the hiring of Jamie Lavigne as the team’s new Head Coach. Lavigne brings an extensive background in the region’s senior hockey circuit to the Rivermen bench, succeeding the team’s inaugural head coach, Mike Byrne, who will remain with the organization to focus entirely on his role as General Manager.

Lavigne’s coaching resume boasts seven years of deep involvement in the EOSHL and NPHL. Most recently, he served as Head Coach for the NPHL’s Akwesasne Wild and the LHSE’s Mercier Crédit Oui during the 2025-2026 season. His senior hockey leadership experience also includes spending three seasons as the General Manager and Head Coach of the Glengarry Pipers, as well as holding the Head Coach position for the Cornwall Senior Prowlers.

“We are thrilled to add Jamie to the Rivermen coaching staff as our head coach,” said General Manager Mike Byrne regarding the transition. “It was always a pleasure seeing Jamie at the rink and I’ve always respected the way he has implemented in-game strategies. Really excited for Jamie to bring his leadership to our team and help take us to the next level.”