Kris Sparre Takes the Helm of Boston Fleet
The Boston Fleet team has announced Kris Sparre as their new head coach, marking a new chapter for the franchise in the PWHL. Sparre, an experienced 38-year-old assistant coach, arrives to lead the team after the departure of Courtney Kessel. Kessel left the team with a record of 27-19-8 and a notable participation in the Walter Cup final, leaving only two female head coaches in the eight PWHL squads.
Sparre, originally from Toronto, had a nine-season career as a forward in minor leagues and in Germany. Previously, he served as an assistant coach at Red Bull Salzburg from 2019 to 2021, before spending three seasons with the San Diego Gulls, the AHL affiliate of the Anaheim Ducks. Fleet General Manager Danielle Marmer highlighted Sparre’s experience in the AHL, where coaches must balance success with player development, as a key factor in his appointment.“This is an incredible opportunity to be part of a league that has experienced remarkable growth and momentum in recent seasons,” Sparre stated. “Boston is one of the most important sports cities in the world, and I look forward to building a program capable of competing for a championship every season.”
Kris Sparre
The Fleet team has eight players remaining from the roster that reached the final in the inaugural PWHL season. However, they will have to make up for the absence of Hilary Knight, the 36-year-old captain and league MVP finalist, who was left unprotected in the expansion draft and will move to Seattle after a season in which she tied for the league lead with 29 points.“Our players need to grow and perform in real time, and Kris understands how to create that environment,” Marmer said. “He is known for being a relationship-oriented coach and an elite communicator: someone who generates trust, connects with the players, and brings energy and purpose to the court every day.”
Danielle Marmer
