The McCall Smokejumpers are a Tier III junior hockey team based in McCall, Idaho, competing in the Premier Division of the USPHL and serving as a vital bridge for elite amateur players striving to compete at higher levels of the game.
Chris and Sara Gregory, Owners
The team is co-owned by husband and wife Chris and Sara Gregory, who lead the organization with a clear vision: to help each player reach their full hockey potential while building strong ties within the McCall community.
Originally founded as the Bakersfield Roughnecks (2022–2025), the team was born from Chris and Sara’s deep love for the game and an even deeper commitment to the growth and success of their players. They recognized hockey as more than just a sport, but also a platform for teaching life skills, building character, and creating lasting opportunities for young athletes. Under their leadership, the organization has become a place where dedication, teamwork, and personal development thrive both on and off the ice.
In 2025, Chris and Sara made the decision to relocate and rebrand the team to reflect its new home. The name “Smokejumpers” pays tribute to McCall’s historic smokejumper base and honors the enduring legacy of wildland firefighting in the region.
Auggie Kuzara
Head Coach
We’re proud to introduce Auggie Kuzara as the first Head Coach of the McCall Smokejumpers!
Auggie’s hockey journey has come full circle. He began his junior career right here in Idaho with the Jr. Steelheads, gaining the foundation that propelled him to play NCAA Division I hockey at Merrimack College in Massachusetts. From there, he took his game overseas, competing professionally in Germany for three seasons before returning home to skate with the McCall Mountaineers in the Mountain Hockey League.
Now, Auggie brings that experience back to McCall—this time behind the bench. His coaching philosophy is simple but powerful: develop strong players, build strong character, and create a winning culture both on and off the ice.
For Auggie, this is more than just coaching a team—it’s about building a program and a community. “Junior hockey gave me the tools I needed to become a professional, both in hockey and in life,” he says. “I’m excited to bring that same opportunity to the next generation of players here in McCall.”
With deep ties to Idaho hockey and a vision for the future, Auggie Kuzara is ready to lead the Smokejumpers into their inaugural season and beyond.
Nolan Stanley
assistant Coach
We’re thrilled to welcome Nolan Stanley as the Assistant Coach for the McCall Smokejumpers’ inaugural 2025-26 season!
Born in Boise, Idaho, Nolan has deep local roots and a passion for the game that runs strong. He carved out his playing career with the McCall Mountaineers of the Mountain Hockey League in the 2024–25 season—bringing energy and first-hand competitive insights to the bench.
“Coaching in McCall means more than systems—it’s about community, mentorship, and giving back to the region that helped shape me,” says Coach Stanley. Now, he’s ready to pass on what he’s learned to the next generation.
With his insider view of the league, familiarity with the local hockey culture, and commitment to player development, Nolan is the perfect right-hand man for Coach Kuzara as they build something extraordinary in McCall.
Manchester Ice
and Events Center
200 E Lake Street McCall, Idaho
The Smokejumper Hockey Team is proud to call the Manchester Ice & Event Centre its home.
This premier facility not only offers stunning lake views from the ice but also carries a meaningful legacy.
The Manchester Ice & Event Centre was built in memory of Richard Sabala, who passed away in 1993 at age 17. To honor his love for McCall, the Sabala family created a foundation that led community efforts to fund local projects, including the Rich Sabala Athletic Complex and later the Ice Centre.
Through private donations, grants, and countless volunteer hours, $6.2 million was raised to complete the facility, which opened on July 2, 2003. Located in downtown McCall across from Payette Lake, the Centre features an NHL-size ice sheet, grandstand seating, and lakeside dining, serving as a lasting gathering place for the community.