New ownership takes over helm of AJHL’s Olds Grizzlys

New ownership group takes the helm of the Grizzlys and commits to the Olds community; Coaching Staff appointed for 2025-26 AJHL Season

OLDS, Alta. — The Olds Grizzlys are excited to welcome Calgary businessman Moe Jamal as the new principal owner, joined by former NHL player Jay Beagle in a supporting role.

Jamal, a dedicated entrepreneur with a passion for hockey development, is eager to contribute to the success of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) and the Olds Grizzlys organization. Beagle, who brings years of professional hockey experience, will provide support to the group in a minor capacity.

“I have a deep love for the game and a strong commitment to developing young athletes,” said Jamal. “Owning an AJHL franchise allows me to support these players in reaching their highest potential. I’m excited to be part of the Grizzlys, the Olds community, and to continue bringing high-level Junior A hockey to Central Alberta.”

Jamal is also actively involved with the Calgary International Hockey Academy (CIHA), which operates U15 through U18 teams in the CSSHL. The academy’s philosophy is built on the belief that hockey is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life that fosters dedication, discipline, and hard work, qualities that shape not just great athletes but great individuals.

The transition marks the end of an era for Friends of the Grizzlys (FOTG), a group of former players and local business owners who took over the franchise in 2017, rescuing it from the brink of extinction. FOTG successfully managed the team for the past eight seasons, ensuring its continued presence in the AJHL.

“The Alberta Junior Hockey League and our member clubs are pleased to welcome Jay Beagle and Moe Jamal as the new ownership group of the Olds Grizzlys,” stated AJHL Commissioner Ryan Bartoshyk. “We are fortunate to integrate their infrastructure and player development experience to provide stability and growth within the community of Olds and look forward to their contributions to the success of our League.”

Stepping in as the new head coach of the Olds Grizzlys is Tyson Soloski. The 32-year-old from Cochrane joins the Grizzlys from the Calgary International Hockey Academy (CIHA), where he led the U18 Prep team to the finals of the prestigious Circle K Classic in the 2024-25 season. He also guided the team to a 25-9-2 record this past season. Soloski has an impressive coaching resume, having led the CIHA U17 team to a CSSHL championship in the 2023-24 season. During the 2022-23 season, he coached the Airdrie Xtreme to a U15 AAA championship, earning AEHL Coach of the Year honours.

Joining the Grizzlys as assistant coach is Dylan Olsen. The 34-year-old former defenceman brings a wealth of experience, having played in the AJHL with Camrose, where he helped lead the team to a National Championship appearance in 2007-08. Olsen also represented Canada at the 2011 World Junior Championship, played NCAA hockey at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, and skated in 124 NHL games with Chicago and Florida. His coaching background includes serving as head coach of the Airdrie Stars U18 team and assistant coach with the CIHA U17 Prep team this past season.

Returning to the coaching staff is Grizzlys alumnus Mitch Visser, who will continue in his role as assistant coach after recently completing his first season behind the Grizzlys’ bench.

With new ownership and coaching staff now in place, the Olds Grizzlys are set to build on their strong foundation and continue their legacy of developing elite junior hockey talent.