HEAD COACH – Dakota Bell
dakota@fairbanksicedogs.com
(419) 308-9122
Dakota Bell has been an integral part of the coaching staff since joining the organization in 2022.
Dakota spent his first two seasons with the Ice Dogs as an Assistant Coach before being promoted to Associate Head Coach ahead of the 2024-25 season, and getting the top job in 2025. His leadership, work ethic, and commitment to player development has played a key role in the team’s continued success on and off the ice.
Before joining the Ice Dogs, Dakota was a Graduate Assistant Coach at New England College for two seasons. He also served as a Volunteer Assistant Coach with NCAA Division I Bowling Green State University Falcons for several seasons while coaching youth hockey in Northwest Ohio.
Dakota holds a Master of Business Administration in Strategic Leadership from New England College, earned in 2022, and a Bachelor of Science in Education from Bowling Green State University, earned in 2019
GOALIE COACH – Adam Carlson
Goalie Coach/Goalie Mentor
Adam Carlson is a seasoned hockey coach. With over a decade of coaching experience, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for goaltending development to his players. His journey in the world of hockey, from his own playing career to his transition into coaching, is a testament to his dedication and expertise.
A graduate of Edina High School (Edina, Minnesota), Adam’s pursuit of excellence in hockey took him to the junior ranks, where he played for three years. Notably, he spent two of those years competing in the North American Hockey League (NAHL) with the Coulee Region Chill.
Adam’s path continued to evolve as he earned the opportunity to play Division 1 college hockey at Mercyhurst University. His time at the college level refined his abilities, and his impressive performance there led to the fulfillment of a lifelong dream – signing an NHL contract with the Washington Capitals.
Although he never made it to The Show, his dedication and perseverance allowed him to make a meaningful impact in the minor leagues for over 7 years.
Recently retired from his professional playing career, Adam Carlson has transitioned into coaching full time, bringing his extensive knowledge and on-ice experience to the next generation of goaltenders. With 12 years of coaching experience, and 2 of those years behind the bench professionally. Adam is committed to helping young players and goalies develop their skills and reach their full potential.
Adam’s coaching journey is expanding as he joins the coaching staff at Fairbanks Ice Dogs of the NAHL. His expertise and dedication to the sport continue to shape the future of hockey, both at the grassroots level and in the competitive ranks. Adam Carlson’s remarkable background, which includes a successful playing career and extensive coaching experience, along with his extensive relationships at the next level D1 to the pro level makes him a valuable asset to any team or player looking to excel in the world of hockey.
SENIOR CONSULTANT – Trevor Stewart
Stewart brings 16 years of coaching experience back to the Ice Dogs. He most recently served as the Associate head coach for the Division 1 hockey team at the University Of Alaska Seawolves. Previous to the UAA job Stewart was with the Fairbanks Ice Dogs (NAHL) for the past decade. Stewart led the Ice Dogs to Robertson Cup Championships in 2013-14 and 2015-16 and a runner-up finish in 2018-19. He was named the NAHL Coach of the Year twice, 2013-14 and 2017-18.
Stewart spent one year as an assistant coach with the St. Louis Bandits (NAHL) before taking over as head coach of the Fairbanks Ice Dogs. He started his coaching career in his hometown of Elk River, Minnesota coaching youth ice hockey for one season before serving as head coach of the Missoula Maulers (NORPAC) for two seasons.
Stewart was a four-year letterwinner for the University of Connecticut graduating in 2007 with a degree in history. He served as an assistant captain his senior season, was named UConn’s Outstanding Senior Student-Athlete and was a member of the Atlantic Hockey All-Academic Team.
Stewart will will wear many hats working with the Coaching staff on the ice, as well as being a big part of the process of player procurement, advancing players to the next level, and helping in the college process for our players going forward.
