Curtis Hamilton promoted

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Bruce Hamilton has spent 35 years as the general manager of the Rockets, and now he is handing the reins to his successor, his son, Curtis Hamilton. But this is more than simply passing the baton to his offspring. It’s a tactical business move, and it makes sense.

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It makes sense in the changing landscape of junior hockey, where Curtis undoubtedly has a pulse on how the game operates today, what it takes to obtain and retain players, how to deal with today’s player, and how to navigate relationships with agents, advisors and parents.

And make no mistake, Curtis Hamilton has done his homework.

This isn’t an individual being promoted without a background or track record. Curtis has been scouting at the grassroots level alongside Director of Player Personnel Terry McFaul. Through RocketFAN’s all-access look behind the scenes at the WHL Prospects Draft, we saw firsthand just how in-tune Curtis is with young prospects. In that regard, he has developed into someone who can hold his own alongside McFaul.

Curtis’ learning curve has been a steep one, but it has also shown steady growth. That makes this promotion a no-brainer for the Rockets organization.

And make no mistake, Bruce Hamilton will still have a voice. His opinion will be heard, and Curtis will undoubtedly lean on the knowledge of an astute hockey man with boatloads of experience.

But now, the buck stops with Curtis.

And I think the Rockets are in very good hands.

Curtis Hamilton moves into the role after serving as the Rockets’ Assistant General Manager since December 2022. He has been involved in roster construction, player personnel, scouting, transactions, and both the WHL Prospects and CHL Import Drafts.

A Kelowna product, Curtis played four seasons in the WHL with the Saskatoon Blades before spending 10 years playing professional hockey. He returned to Kelowna full-time in 2022 and earned a Master’s degree in Sports Management from Ulster University in Northern Ireland.

Curtis also served as an Assistant Coach with the Rockets during the 2020-21 WHL hub season.

“I am excited for the opportunity and challenge of the new role,” said Curtis Hamilton. “I look forward to working with the staff, players, and community. This organization has always had high expectations and that will only continue moving forward.”

Bruce Hamilton said the timing was right to bring a younger perspective into the General Manager position while continuing his involvement with the organization as President and Governor.

“I feel this is the right time to bring a younger perspective into the General Manager role,” said Bruce Hamilton. “After more than 35 years, and with how today’s athletes and the game continue to evolve, the time is right for me to move into a different role.”

The WHL congratulated Curtis on his promotion, noting his experience in both playing and hockey operations as he takes over the GM role.