by Jeffrey Reed, Editor, LondonOntarioSports.com
Photo: New York Rangers Hockey Club

The London Nationals have fired head coach Brandon Prust and have made first-year general manager Keli Corpse interim head coach.

In a message at their website, the Nats announced:

“The London Nationals would like to thank Brandon Prust for his time and contributions as Head Coach of the organization. Prust joined the Nationals bringing extensive experience from a long professional hockey career, including time in the NHL. During his tenure, he worked closely with players and staff, contributing to the team’s on-ice development and overall program. The organization appreciates the effort and commitment he provided while with the club. Brandon Prust is no longer with the London Nationals, and the team wishes him all the best in his future endeavors. Effective immediately, Keli Corpse will assume the role of Interim Head Coach. Further updates regarding the club’s coaching staff will be shared at a later date.”

London sits fourth in the GOHL Jr. B Western Conference with a 21-10 record.

Two days after Prust’s firing on Boxing Day, the Nats released their high-scoring captain Ryan Nichols to the Junior C Petrolia Flyers.

Prust said he was “confused” by his firing. A London native, Prust was selected by the Calgary Flames in the 2004 NHL entry draft. After helping the London Knights capture the 2005 Memorial Cup, he played for the Flames, Phoenix Coyotes, New York Rangers, Montreal Canadiens and Vancouver Canucks over 12 seasons and was a fan favourite for his tough play, mostly as a fourth-line winger. After a brief stint in Germany, he hung up his skates in 2017.

In February, Dean Pomerleau of New Dundee, Ont. became new Nats owner. A restauranteur and long-time hockey fan, Pomerleau is father of Nats’ high-scoring forward, Austen. Paul Duarte had owned the Nats for the previous five seasons.

In October, the team hired Corpse as GM. The club said via their website:

“The London Nationals are proud to announce the hiring of Keli Corpse as the team’s new General Manager – a major addition that signals the organization’s commitment to building a strong, competitive future both on and off the ice. Corpse brings an impressive combination of hockey pedigree, leadership experience, and deep London roots to the role, making this a homecoming that’s set to make an immediate impact. Corpse is no stranger to junior hockey in London. He played for the London Nationals, at that time called the London Diamonds, during the 1989-90 season, proudly representing the franchise before going on to an accomplished playing career. A London native, Corpse went on to become one of the top six goal scorers in the Ontario Hockey League, showcasing elite offensive ability and leadership on the ice. His standout junior performance earned him a 44th overall selection by the Montreal Canadiens in the 1992 NHL Entry Draft. Following his playing days – which included time in the OHL, AHL, ECHL, and IHL – Corpse transitioned into coaching and player development. Over the years, he’s built a strong reputation as a leader who develops talent, builds competitive teams, and inspires those around him. Off the ice, he’s known as a family man with deep roots in the London community. “It’s an honour to come back to London and join the Nationals,” said Corpse. “This city has always meant a lot to me. I’m excited to work with our staff, players, and community to build something strong and sustainable here.” Bringing Corpse into the fold represents a significant step forward for the Nationals. His blend of playing pedigree, coaching experience, and personal history with the organization makes him uniquely suited to lead this next chapter. He officially steps into his role effective immediately, overseeing player recruitment, development, and hockey operations. The Nationals also extend their sincere thanks to Tony Mandarelli, who has served as General Manager since 2021. During his tenure, Mandarelli helped stabilize the organization, guided key roster decisions, and maintained the club’s competitive standards. His leadership and dedication over the past several seasons are deeply appreciated. With Corpse now leading the charge, the Nationals are focused on building momentum and strengthening their identity both on the ice and in the community. Fans can expect to see new energy, a clear vision, and a deep connection to Nationals history in the seasons to come.“