WINNER. LEADER. PLAYER DEVELOPER. MATT ROGERS TAKES THE SABERS HELM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Carlsbad, CA – The San Diego Sabers are proud to announce the hiring of Matt Rogers as the team’s new Head Coach for the upcoming 2026-27 USPHL season.

A highly respected coach with a reputation for developing players and deep roots in both junior and AAA hockey, Rogers hails from the Detroit area, one of North America's premier hockey hotbeds bringing an impressive combination of playing experience, leadership, and championship success to the Sabers.

As a player, Matt competed in junior hockey with the Elliot Lake Bobcats in Northern Ontario, where he served as team captain and helped lead the organization to two regular-season championships and a league championship. His outstanding performance on the ice earned him selection as a league All-Star. Following his junior career, he continued his athletic and academic journey at SUNY Morrisville, where he competed as both an NCAA hockey player and collegiate golfer.

Since transitioning behind the bench, Matt has established himself as a respected skills instructor throughout Metro Detroit. He has worked with several of the area's premier programs, including Honey Baked and Lake Orion helping athletes advance to the next levels of their hockey careers.

Matt also served as Defensive Coach for the Jr. A Motor City Hockey Club's National Tournament qualifying team, where his leadership and attention to detail played a key role in the team's success.

His youth coaching resume is equally impressive, highlighted by a National Championship, two Michigan State Championships, and multiple State appearances. Throughout his coaching career, Matt has earned a reputation for developing complete players while fostering a culture of accountability, hard work, and a team-first mentality.

"I am honored and excited for the opportunity to lead The Sabers," said Matt. "Junior hockey played a tremendous role in my own development as both a player and person. I look forward to helping our players achieve their goals on and off the ice while building a competitive program that our fans, families, and community can be proud of."

President of Hockey Operations Jeremy Blumes stated, "We are excited to welcome Matt to the Ice Realm family. His winning background, commitment to player development, proven ability to build strong team cultures and community made him the clear choice to lead the San Diego Sabers. The Sabers serve as a vital part of our pathway to the Ontario Jr. Reign (NCDC), and Matt's leadership will help strengthen that connection while creating opportunities for our players to advance and succeed at the next level."

With a championship pedigree, extensive development experience, and a passion for helping young athletes succeed, Coach Rogers is poised to usher in an exciting new era for The San Diego Sabers.

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Coach Rogers begins immediately and will play a key role in identifying and signing talent at the upcoming Surf & Turf Showcases.

🚂 Board the Reign Train! Get in front of the staff OJR (NCDC), Sabers (USPHL Premier), and St. John Bosco Prep.

📍 Ontario, California | June 19–21
📍 Saskatoon, Saskatchewan | June 26–28

🔗 https://www.ontariojrreign.com/camps

Recruiting Contact

Matt Rogers - Head Coach, San Diego Sabers

✉️ Matt.Rogers@icerealm.com