The Toledo Walleye have announced two key changes to their coaching staff ahead of the 2025–26 ECHL season. Brent Bain has been promoted from Assistant Coach to Associate Head Coach, while former Walleye defenseman Chaz Reddekopp joins the staff as Assistant Coach. Both moves underscore Toledo’s focus on leadership continuity and player development as they prepare for another competitive campaign.
Brent Bain, Associate Head Coach
For Bain, the promotion is the culmination of years of steady work and dedication to the organization. A Toledo native, he began his Walleye tenure in 2017 as the team’s Video Coach, a role he held until 2021. In 2022–23, he transitioned fully into the Assistant Coach position, where he played an integral part in bench operations and game preparation.
“Brent is an exceptional coach with a deep knowledge of the game and player development,” said Walleye Head Coach Pat Mikesch. “This promotion is well deserved, and I look forward to working with him in this new role” (Toledo Walleye, 2025).
Bain’s roots in the local hockey community run deep. Before joining the Walleye, he spent two years as the Varsity Assistant Coach for St. John’s Jesuit High School in Toledo, helping shape young talent at the grassroots level.
Chaz Reddekopp, Assistant Coach
Over his seven-year professional career, Reddekopp appeared in 201 ECHL games, collecting 52 points (10g-42a) and 385 penalty minutes. He also played over 90 games in the AHL, splitting time with the Ontario Reign, Belleville Senators, Tucson Roadrunners, and the San Jose Barracuda. His ECHL stops included the Manchester Monarchs, Fort Wayne Komets, Allen Americans, Orlando Solar Bears, South Carolina Stingrays, Kalamazoo Wings, and Toledo.
Known for his steady defensive play, physical presence, and willingness to stand up for teammates, Reddekopp earned the captain’s “C” with the Kalamazoo Wings in 2023–24. His leadership extended beyond the stat sheet—mentoring younger players and serving as a respected voice in the locker room. That same year, he posted 15 points (5g-10a) and 194 penalty minutes in 67 regular-season games, adding four playoff appearances.
In 2024–25, Reddekopp joined the Walleye, tallying six points (2g-4a) in 29 games before his season was cut short by injury. Even while sidelined, he remained a constant presence with the team, offering guidance and support—a role he will now carry forward behind the bench as Toledo’s new assistant coach.
“Chaz was an invaluable resource for the team last season,” Mikesch said. “He is a fantastic leader and will continue to be a great mentor for our players” (Toledo Walleye, 2025).
The Season Ahead
The dual move to elevate Bain and bring in Reddekopp signals the Walleye’s commitment to stability and a strong support system for players. Both coaches bring unique perspectives—Bain with his analytical and development-focused approach, and Reddekopp with the insights of a recent pro player who understands the grind of the ECHL schedule.
Toledo Walleye. (2025, August 7). Walleye promote Bain to Associate Head Coach; Reddekopp named Assistant Coach.
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