By Western Hockey League

The Western Hockey League is mourning the passing of Mark Odnokon, longtime member of the Prince Albert Raiders.

The Raiders announced the passing of Odnokon on Sunday. He died at the age of 63.

Most recently, Odnokon served as a Skills Coach for the Raiders during the 2025-26 WHL season.

Hailing from Moose Jaw, Sask., Odnokon’s ties to the Raiders began in the late 1970s, when he played left wing for the Club during its final years in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) from 1978-79 through 1981-82. He helped the Raiders claim three consecutive SJHL titles (1980, 1981, 1982) before the Club joined the Western Hockey League for the 1982-83 season.

Odnokon returned to the Raiders as an assistant coach for two seasons – 1990-91 and 1991-92. He then served a second stint as an assistant coach from 2003-04 through 2006-07.

From 2015-16 through 2019-20, Odnokon was a Skills Coach for the Raiders, and helped the Club claim the WHL Championship in 2019.

Once again, from 2022-23 through this season, Odnokon lent his services as a Skills Coach for the Raiders.

Odnokon’s contributions to the Raiders also included time as the team’s Respect Champion. He was widely regarded as a great mentor for players, providing a safe place and support.

On behalf of the WHL and its 23 member Clubs, we extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to family, friends, and all of Odnokon’s Raider colleagues over his many years.