skills coach

Brady Winking serves as the Skills and Power Skating Coach for the Valkyries hockey teams, bringing both passion and experience to every practice. His hockey journey began at just four years old in Mandan, North Dakota, where his love for the game quickly took root. That dedication carried him to the Mandan Braves Varsity team as a freshman, setting the foundation for a lifelong commitment to the sport.

During his high school years, Brady spent countless hours at the rink, not only honing his own skills but also mentoring and skating with younger players. It was during this time that his passion for coaching truly emerged.

After graduating from college, Brady returned to Mandan and became actively involved in the youth hockey program, where he has been coaching for several years. He began by coaching boys teams before transitioning into a leadership role as Head Power Skating Coach across all levels. Most recently, Brady has expanded his impact by coaching in the girls program—where his connection runs even deeper, as his two young daughters are now following in his footsteps on the ice.

Brady’s dedication to sharing his love of hockey is what continues to drive him. He is especially passionate about growing girls hockey in North Dakota, striving to ensure that every girl—including his own—has the opportunity to pursue her dreams in the sport.



Outside of the rink, Brady enjoys staying active and spending time with family. You can find him playing softball, golfing, or relaxing at the family cabin wake surfing. Above all, he values time with his wife, Alyssa, and their daughters, Audra and Piper.

Brady Winking

Founded in 2010, the Youth Sports League (YSL) is dedicated to providing a safe, fun, and competitive environment for young athletes to develop their skills and love for the game.

We believe that sports are more than just a game—they teach valuable life lessons about teamwork, discipline, resilience, and leadership. Our league is run by a dedicated group of volunteers and professional coaches who are committed to the growth of every player.

With over 2,000 active players across 150 teams, YSL is the largest youth sports organization in the county. We offer programs for all skill levels, from recreational beginner leagues to competitive travel teams.