Hockey Canada's leadership faced a pivotal decision ahead of the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship. For general manager Alan Millar, the choice for who would steer the national junior team was clear, leading to one crucial phone call.
The Obvious Choice for Bench Boss
Mark Hunter has been named head coach of Canada's world junior team, returning to the role he held previously. The announcement was made official at a press conference in Toronto on Monday, December 8, 2025, where Hunter was joined by GM Alan Millar and his brother, management group member Dale Hunter.
The decision underscores the organization's confidence in Hunter's experience and proven track record in developing young talent. His familiarity with the international tournament's intense pressure and short format made him the standout candidate for Millar and the selection committee.
Building a Championship Roster
The Toronto press conference also served to unveil the training camp roster, the first step in assembling the squad that will compete for gold. The selection process involves evaluating the nation's top under-20 players, with final cuts to be made before the tournament begins.
The Hunter family's deep involvement is a notable storyline, with Mark leading behind the bench and Dale providing strategic input from the management group. This combined hockey intellect will be central to Canada's game planning and player development throughout the championship.
Legacy and Expectations
Taking the helm of Canada's world junior team is one of the most prestigious and high-pressure assignments in hockey. The tournament, held annually during the Christmas and New Year period, is a national obsession in Canada, with millions of fans expecting a gold-medal performance.
Mark Hunter's return signals a focus on stability and a winning pedigree. His task will be to mold the selected roster into a cohesive unit capable of handling the immense expectations and fierce competition from rival hockey powers like the United States, Sweden, and Russia.
The journey towards the 2025 world junior gold medal is now officially underway, with a familiar and respected leader back in charge of Canada's quest for international hockey supremacy.
