Josh Gratton
President of Hockey Operations – Head Coach
With knowledge and experience in all levels of hockey, Josh is deeply rooted in the game. As a player, he played 86 NHL games with the Philadelphia Flyers, and the Phoenix Coyotes. His professional career spanned over 700 games in North America and Europe; winning two Calder Cup Championships – 2005 with the Philly Phantoms, and 2015 with the Manchester Monarchs.
He played professionally in 10 different countries in top leagues around the world, with 6 different stints as Captain. Josh is well known as a physical power forward with strong leadership and veteran presence. In the OHL, he played Major Junior with the Sudbury Wolves, Kingston Frontenacs and the Windsor Spitfires.
Transitioning into coaching, he was the Head Coach of the Potomac Patriots (NDCC) for four seasons, turning around their program from 3 wins, to a National Championship. Recently, in 2024, he was named Head Coach and GM of the Year for the Winnipeg Blues, in the MJ.
In addition, he has Hockey Canada experience, as an Assistant Coach for Team Canada West at the 2025 World Junior A Challenge, winning silver.
He’s extremely excited to work with the players & organization to continue and grow the rich history of the Club.
Derek Puttick
Assistant Coach / Assistant General Manager
A native of Strathmore, Alberta, Derek brings over 45 years of hockey experience (over 2 decades coaching) to his role as Assistant Coach—spanning Junior, Midget, and minor levels across Canada, Australia, Latvia and the US.
Starting as a player, Derek played at the elite level most of his career playing at the AA and AAA levels finishing his playing career in Australia. From there he evolved into coaching, including becoming a manager, scout, mentor, a minor hockey board member, hockey school instructor and has built a diverse and accomplished resumé in the game. Derek’s coaching pedigree includes five league championships and a Provincial silver medal within his last nine years behind the bench. Known for his detail-oriented approach and strong connection with players, he focuses on developing athletes both on and off the ice—preparing them for success in the next stage of their hockey journey.
Derek previously spent the last season with the Wisconsin Riverkings of the USPHL Premier and is very excited to be continue his work in The Pas.
Mark Patton
General Manager, Player Personnel, Recruitment
personnel@normanblizzard.com
1.204.291.8133
Mark has been with our club for the past two seasons; starting as Head Scout and being promoted to Director of Player Personnel halfway through his first year. He’s also currently a scout for the Western Hockey League’s Saskatoon Blades.
He’s been with the Blades for 7 seasons. Prior to coming to the Blizzard he scouted for 4 years with the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League’s Flin Flon Bombers. He’s also been involved with the Swan Valley Stampeders in a scouting capacity in the past, after becoming a regional scout for International Scouting Services, following the completion of their internship program. During COVID, when all leagues were shutdown, he completed training in Hockey Analytics.
He was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba and currently resides in Lorette. He has two young children, and also works as a Senior Production Supervisor at a company that has around 300 employees.
Joshua Luce
Equipment Technician
Josh Luce was born and raised in The Pas, Manitoba and has been serving as the Equipment Coordinator for the Northern Manitoba Blizzard since 2025/26 season.
He brings a strong passion for sports and a deep understanding of the team’s equipment and operational needs. His dedication helps ensure that players have the support and resources they need throughout the season.
Josh is excited to continue working with the returning players while building new relationships with incoming team members. He looks forward to contributing to the team’s success and helping create a positive environment both on and off the ice.
