The Greensboro Gargoyles have officially named Jason Binkley as their assistant coach for the 2025–26 season. Binkley arrives in Greensboro with a proven record of player development and ECHL bench experience—an asset for an expansion team aiming to make an immediate impact.
From Royals Head Coach to Gargoyles Assistant
Binkley, 33, most recently served as head coach of the Reading Royals. His coaching career began as an assistant in Reading during the 2022–23 season, and he earned the title of interim head coach midway through 2023-24. After leading the Royals to a playoff berth, Binkley was given the full-time role for 2024-25, where he recorded 46 wins before being relieved of his duties in the offseason.
Joining forces with head coach Scott Burt, Binkley emphasized the importance of player development in his transition to Greensboro.
“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to come to Greensboro and continue my coaching career. I would like to thank Scott Burt, Joe Ernst, and Zawyer Sports for the chance to usher in this new team to a high level. I look forward to working with Scott to put a competitive team on the ice each night, while also playing a role in the development of our players.”
The Gargoyles are expected to play a key role in the development of Carolina Hurricanes prospects, making Binkley’s ECHL familiarity a natural fit.
North Carolina Ties Run Deep
Before his time in Reading, Binkley spent a season coaching in the SPHL with the Fayetteville Marksmen. Just 90 minutes south of Greensboro, Binkley helped lead the Marksmen to their winningest season in franchise history. That success at the SPHL level launched his path into the ECHL coaching ranks.
Seven-Year ECHL Vet Brings Blue Line Grit
Prior to coaching, the Powell, Ohio native played seven professional seasons as a defenseman. After graduating from Ferris State University with 68 points across four NCAA seasons, Binkley debuted in the ECHL with the South Carolina Stingrays.
Over his ECHL playing career, he suited up for the South Carolina Stingrays, Fort Wayne Komets, Utah Grizzlies, Cincinnati Cyclones, and Jacksonville Icemen. Across 331 ECHL regular season games, Binkley tallied 28 goals and 111 assists for 139 points. He also made four AHL appearances with the Cleveland Monsters, notching one assist. His best season came in 2016–17 with Fort Wayne, where he posted 44 points in 67 games.
A Smart Hire for a Smart Start
As the Gargoyles gear up for their inaugural campaign, Binkley’s familiarity with the league—both on the bench and on the ice—gives Greensboro a developmental edge. His coaching record, regional ties, and insight into player growth offer the exact foundation the expansion franchise hopes to build upon.
Discover more from Inside The Rink
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
