NANAIMO, BC — August 28th, 2026 — The Nanaimo Clippers of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) today announced an ownership transition at Northern Lights Hockey Canada, welcoming Roman Tkachenko and Oleg Tverdovsky as new investors and members of the club’s ownership group. Brad Kwong, who has led the organization since Northern Lights Hockey Canada acquired the Clippers in 2022, will remain Managing Partner, continuing to guide the franchise’s strategic direction, league relationships, and community partnerships.
The addition of Tkachenko and Tverdovsky brings fresh, committed capital and renewed energy to one of the BCHL’s most storied franchises, reinforcing the club’s long-term stability and its ambitions both on and off the ice.
A Champion’s Pedigree
Tverdovsky brings a distinguished hockey pedigree to the ownership group. A former NHL defenseman selected second overall in the 1994 NHL Draft, he played 713 NHL regular-season games and was a two-time Stanley Cup champion — winning with the New Jersey Devils in 2003 and the Carolina Hurricanes in 2006. His firsthand experience at the highest level of the sport gives the Clippers a rare ownership perspective on elite player development, team culture, and what it takes to compete for championships.
“Winning at the highest level teaches you what a successful team is built upon — commitment, culture, and development of your people,” said Tverdovsky. “I’m excited to bring my experience as a player to the Clippers and help build something the players, staff, and this community can be proud of.”
Tkachenko, joining as a lead investor in the ownership group, shares that same commitment to the organization’s future.
“We’re proud to invest in the Clippers and in Nanaimo,” said Tkachenko. “This is a franchise with tremendous history and passionate fans, and we’re committed to providing the resources and support it needs to thrive and be successful for years to come.”
Continuity Under Brad Kwong
Kwong will remain Managing Partner of the club, ensuring continuity for players, staff, sponsors, and the Nanaimo community through the transition.
“Roman and Oleg bring exactly what this organization needs at this stage — fresh, committed ownership with real hockey pedigree and a genuine investment in where we’re headed,” said Kwong. “I’m energized about what this partnership means for the Clippers’ future. My focus remains the same: building a first-class development platform for our players and staff, winning championships and making sure Nanaimo continues to feel like this is the City’s team.”
Kwong also extended thanks to Joe Carrabino and Brett Barakett for their partnership over the past two years. “I want to thank my partners Joe and Brett for their tremendous support these past two years. Their involvement has been integral to this organization’s progress, and I’m grateful for everything they’ve contributed to the Clippers.”
Hockey Operations and Business Additions
The ownership transition comes alongside a series of key hockey operations and business appointments as the Clippers build toward the coming season.
Head Coach & General Manager Colin Birkas has signed a multi-year contract extension, providing continuity and long-term leadership for the club’s hockey operations. Gaelan Patterson returns after a year with the Vancouver Giants of the WHL, to the organization as Associate Head Coach, rejoining the coaching staff to support the club’s on-ice development.
On the business side, Jared Brown joined the organization as President earlier this summer, bringing over 30 years of business experience with Co–op Liquor and the last 9 in Nanaimo. Jessie McGarrigle has also come on board to head up operations for the club. Rounding out the staff are current member Rikki Thompson and Owen Stanley — a well-known and well-liked figure in the local community — who has taken on a full-time role with the organization.
“This is a group that combines hockey excellence, real business depth with local roots,” said Kwong. “Colin’s extension gives us stability behind the bench, Gaelan’s return strengthens our coaching staff, and adding Jared, Jessie, and Owen gives us the business horsepower and community connection to match our ambitions on the ice.”
Enhancing the Game Day Experience
The Clippers have also installed a new video board, part of a broader investment in the fan experience at home games. The addition will bring added energy and excitement to game days for fans, players, and sponsors alike, with more fan experience enhancements to come.
About the Nanaimo Clippers
Founded in 1972, the Nanaimo Clippers are one of the BCHL’s longest running and most storied Junior Hockey franchises, with five Fred Page Cup championships and a track record of developing players for the NCAA and professional ranks. Northern Lights Hockey Canada has operated the club since 2022.
The 2026/27 season kicks off September 18th, you can get your tickets at tickets.nanaimoclippers.com
