(Image Credit: Prince George Cougars)
Cougars

Cougars promote Rogers to Director of Scouting as Mack heads to NHL

Jul 17, 2026 | 8:09 AM

PRINCE GEORGE — The Prince George Cougars have made a key change to their hockey operations department, appointing longtime scout Rob Rogers as the club’s new Director of Scouting ahead of the 2026-27 Western Hockey League season.

Rogers takes over the position after spending the past seven seasons with the organization as a British Columbia-based scout. The move comes as former Director of Scouting Leland Mack leaves the Cougars to accept a scouting role with the National Hockey League’s Boston Bruins.

Cougars Director of Player Personnel Bob Simmonds says Rogers has earned the opportunity through years of dedication and strong work identifying talent for the organization.

“Being able to have Rob step into the Head Scout role is just another indication of our organizational depth,” said Simmonds. “Rob has earned this opportunity. His attention to detail and discerning eye will allow him to hit the ground running.”

Simmonds added that Rogers’ familiarity with the team’s scouting network and his long-standing relationships within the organization will help ensure a smooth transition.

Rogers joined the Cougars scouting staff during the 2019-20 season and has played a significant role in evaluating players across British Columbia. His promotion reflects the organization’s confidence in its internal development model and its ability to prepare personnel for larger responsibilities.

The change also marks the end of a successful chapter for Mack, who leaves Prince George after helping oversee the club’s scouting operations. His move to the Bruins represents another example of a Cougars staff member advancing to hockey’s highest level.

“We are so happy for Leland as he moves on to the NHL,” said Simmonds. “Leland has certainly earned his opportunity, and it speaks volumes about his ability and future in the game of hockey.”

Simmonds said Mack’s departure leaves “big shoes to fill,” but noted the organization is well-positioned to move forward with Rogers stepping into the role.

The Cougars say Mack’s hiring by Boston also highlights the organization’s ability to develop people away from the ice, not just players on it.

As the team prepares for the upcoming WHL season, the scouting department will continue to play a critical role in identifying and recruiting future talent. With Rogers now leading that effort, the club believes it has a familiar and experienced voice guiding its player evaluation process.

The Prince George Cougars congratulated Rogers on his appointment and thanked Mack for his years of service, while wishing him success in the next stage of his hockey career with the Boston Bruins.