Last Updated on November 11, 2026 by Bernald Sanders
André Tourigny is a Canadian professional ice hockey coach who serves as the head coach of the Utah Mammoth in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on May 30, 1974, in Trois-Rivières, Quebec, Canada, he grew up in Sainte-Monique, near Nicolet, and developed a passion for hockey that eventually led him to the NHL.
André Tourigny is married to Mélanie Tourigny (née Allard), a Canadian nurse who has supported his coaching career for decades. The couple has three children: twin sons Félix-Antoine and Jean-Philippe Tourigny, and a daughter named Marie-Léa Tourigny.
His parents are Maurice and Denise Tourigny, and he has two sisters, Chantal and Johanne Tourigny. Tourigny has frequently credited his family with teaching him perseverance, optimism, and the importance of supporting others.
André Tourigny’s Wife: Who Is Mélanie Allard?
André Tourigny’s wife is Mélanie Allard, a Canadian healthcare professional who has worked as a nurse.
Mélanie has supported her husband throughout his lengthy coaching career, including his time with junior hockey organizations, the Colorado Avalanche, Ottawa Senators, Arizona Coyotes, and Utah Mammoth.
Although André has become a recognizable figure in professional hockey, Mélanie has generally preferred to remain outside the public spotlight.
In an interview published by Le Journal de Québec in November 2023, Tourigny described his wife as an exceptionally supportive person whose encouragement had helped their entire family succeed.
He credited her with creating a positive and competitive family environment while balancing her professional responsibilities with raising their three children.
What Does Mélanie Tourigny Do?
Mélanie Tourigny has a professional background in nursing.
Her work attracted public attention in March 2020 during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
At the time, André was coaching the Ottawa 67’s in the Ontario Hockey League.
According to Le Journal de Montréal, Mélanie worked long hospital shifts while helping care for patients during the health emergency.
André explained that his wife regularly worked 12-hour shifts and faced a lengthy commute between their home in Kanata and her workplace near Gatineau.
Despite the demanding schedule, she continued supporting her family and maintaining a positive attitude.
Tourigny publicly expressed pride in her dedication to healthcare and described her contribution during the pandemic as especially important.
How Did André Tourigny Meet His Wife?
The exact circumstances of André Tourigny’s first meeting with Mélanie Allard have not been extensively documented.
However, Hockey Canada has confirmed that a connection through Mélanie’s extended family helped André begin his coaching career.
In an interview published on December 29, 2020, Tourigny explained that the boyfriend of one of his future wife’s cousins invited him to become an assistant coach for an under-13 hockey team.
The invitation came in the autumn of 1994, when André was approximately 20 years old.
Only two weeks later, the team’s head coach accepted another job and could no longer continue in the position.
Tourigny unexpectedly became the head coach.
The experience launched a coaching career that eventually took him to the NHL.
Although this family connection is well documented, the couple’s exact wedding date has not been publicly established through reliable sports reporting.
André and Mélanie Tourigny’s Marriage
André and Mélanie have maintained their marriage through the challenges of professional hockey.
Coaching positions often require relocation, extensive travel, and irregular working hours.
Throughout their relationship, the couple has lived in different Canadian communities and experienced major changes associated with André’s career.
In 2022, while André was coaching the Arizona Coyotes, Mélanie continued working as a nurse in the Ottawa region.
Le Journal de Québec reported that the couple temporarily lived in different locations because of their professional responsibilities.
Mélanie and their children visited André in Arizona during the season.
Despite the distance, the family maintained close relationships and regularly communicated.
When André relocated to Utah in 2024, Mélanie moved with him, allowing them to establish a home together in the Salt Lake City area.
André Tourigny’s Children
André Tourigny and his wife Mélanie have three children: two sons and one daughter.
Their sons, Félix-Antoine and Jean-Philippe, are fraternal or identical twins whose specific twin type has not been publicly established. Their daughter, Marie-Léa, is younger than her brothers.
All three children’s identities are confirmed in official Hockey Canada biographies and family interviews.
Félix-Antoine Tourigny – André Tourigny’s Son
Félix-Antoine Tourigny is one of André and Mélanie Tourigny’s twin sons.
He was born on February 2, 2000, in Trois-Rivières, Quebec, according to his hockey profile published by Elite Prospects.
Like his father, Félix-Antoine developed a strong interest in competitive ice hockey.
He played as a forward, primarily at center, during his junior hockey career.
In February 2013, Le Journal de Québec published an article about André coaching his twin sons during the prestigious Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament.
Félix-Antoine played as a forward while his brother Jean-Philippe served as a goaltender.
The tournament gave André an opportunity to combine his responsibilities as a hockey coach with his role as a father.
Félix-Antoine later continued playing hockey while pursuing university studies.
His hockey career included time with McGill University’s men’s hockey program.
In a November 2023 interview, André explained that Félix-Antoine was completing university studies related to animal care.
His father’s public comments demonstrate that education remained an important priority within the Tourigny family.
Jean-Philippe Tourigny – André Tourigny’s Twin Son
Jean-Philippe Tourigny is André and Mélanie’s other twin son.
He was born on the same day as Félix-Antoine, February 2, 2000.
Jean-Philippe also played competitive ice hockey during his childhood.
However, unlike his twin brother, who developed into a forward, Jean-Philippe became a goaltender.
In February 2013, both brothers participated in the Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament while André was involved in coaching their team.
During an interview with Le Journal de Québec, the brothers explained that they had previously experimented with different playing positions.
They eventually settled into separate roles, reducing the direct competition between them.
Jean-Philippe acknowledged feeling proud of his father’s coaching achievements while also recognizing that professional hockey often kept him away from home.
In November 2023, André revealed that Jean-Philippe was pursuing university studies in medicine.
Although his youth hockey background and academic interests are documented, further details about his professional activities remain relatively private.
Marie-Léa Tourigny – André Tourigny’s Daughter
Marie-Léa Tourigny is the youngest child and only daughter of André and Mélanie Tourigny.
According to Hockey Canada, Marie-Léa was 17 years old in December 2020.
She grew up alongside her older twin brothers while her father worked in major junior hockey and the NHL.
Although she did not receive the same public attention as her hockey-playing brothers, Marie-Léa has remained an important member of the family’s support system.
In a November 2023 interview with Le Journal de Québec, André praised his daughter for her kindness, dedication, and strong work ethic.
He recalled that she sometimes held multiple jobs during summer vacations while continuing her education.
In September 2024, L’Hebdo Journal reported that Marie-Léa was working for the Canada Revenue Agency.
Unlike her parents and brothers, Marie-Léa generally maintains a private public profile.
How André Tourigny Balances Fatherhood and Coaching
André Tourigny has frequently discussed the challenges of raising a family while pursuing a professional coaching career.
His work required him to spend long periods away from home, particularly during the major junior hockey season.
In a 2013 interview, he acknowledged that coaching his twin sons at the Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament was especially meaningful.
The opportunity allowed him to participate directly in their development despite the demanding schedule associated with coaching the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies.
In December 2020, Tourigny told Hockey Canada that his wife and children had made considerable sacrifices throughout his career.
He credited their encouragement with allowing him to accept coaching opportunities across Canada and the United States.
Although his children eventually became adults and pursued their own careers, family time has remained one of his most important priorities.
André Tourigny’s Parents
André Tourigny was raised by Maurice Tourigny and Denise Tourigny in Sainte-Monique, near Nicolet, Quebec.
Both parents played important roles in shaping his character.
In interviews published by Le Journal de Montréal and Le Journal de Québec, Tourigny explained that the values taught by his parents influenced his approach to leadership and coaching.
André Tourigny’s Father: Maurice Tourigny
Maurice Tourigny is André Tourigny’s father.
He raised André and his two sisters in Quebec, emphasizing patience, discipline, and thoughtful decision-making.
During a March 2022 interview with Le Journal de Montréal, André explained that his father’s calm personality had influenced the way he responded to stressful situations.
Tourigny acknowledged that he had previously been more impulsive, particularly during the early stages of his coaching career.
Over time, he learned to control his emotions and approach difficult decisions more carefully.
He credited much of that development to his father’s example.
In November 2023, André also discussed how Maurice had taught his children that difficult challenges could be overcome through persistence and finding solutions.
The lessons became especially valuable as André progressed through professional coaching.
Maurice Tourigny’s Relationship With His Son
Maurice continued supporting André after he became an NHL head coach.
In March 2022, Maurice followed his son’s first coaching appearance at Montreal’s Bell Centre from home.
André explained that both parents understood how meaningful coaching an NHL game in Quebec was to him.
In November 2026, local broadcaster VIA 90.5 reported that André visited his father in Trois-Rivières during Utah’s trip to Montreal.
Maurice had recently undergone knee surgery, and André used a brief break from his coaching responsibilities to spend time with him.
The visit demonstrated their continuing close relationship despite the distance between Quebec and Utah.
André Tourigny’s Mother: Denise Tourigny
Denise Tourigny is André Tourigny’s mother.
She helped raise André and his sisters in Quebec and encouraged them to remain optimistic during difficult circumstances.
In a March 2022 interview with Le Journal de Montréal, André described his mother’s cheerful personality as one of the most important influences on his life.
He explained that Denise approached everyday challenges with confidence and maintained a positive attitude.
Her optimism helped inspire his belief that difficult situations could be improved through determination and hard work.
Tourigny adopted a similar approach while working with young hockey players and later coaching in the NHL.
He has frequently emphasized the importance of maintaining confidence after disappointing results.
Denise Tourigny’s Influence on André’s Coaching Philosophy
André Tourigny has credited his mother with teaching him that setbacks should not determine a person’s future.
During his childhood, Denise encouraged him to believe that he could achieve difficult goals if he remained committed.
In a March 2023 interview with TVA Sports, Tourigny explained that his mother’s encouragement helped him develop confidence in his coaching abilities.
He initially dreamed of coaching a minor hockey team in his hometown rather than reaching the NHL.
However, the values he learned from his parents encouraged him to accept increasingly demanding opportunities.
His optimistic coaching style continues to reflect the influence of his mother’s personality.
André Tourigny’s Siblings
André Tourigny has two publicly documented sisters: Chantal Tourigny and Johanne Tourigny.
Their names were confirmed in a November 2023 family profile published by Le Journal de Québec.
All three siblings were raised by Maurice and Denise Tourigny in the Nicolet area of Quebec.
Chantal Tourigny – André Tourigny’s Sister
Chantal Tourigny is one of André Tourigny’s two sisters.
She grew up alongside André and Johanne in a family that emphasized optimism, perseverance, and responsibility.
According to Le Journal de Québec, their parents encouraged all three children to approach challenges with determination.
Although Chantal’s family relationship is confirmed, reliable sports reporting provides limited information about her profession, education, and personal life.
She has generally maintained a private profile outside her brother’s professional hockey career.
Johanne Tourigny – André Tourigny’s Sister
Johanne Tourigny is André Tourigny’s other sister.
Like Chantal, she was raised in Quebec by Maurice and Denise Tourigny.
Her relationship with André is documented in the November 2023 Le Journal de Québec family interview.
Although Tourigny has spoken publicly about the values shared by the siblings, additional details about Johanne’s personal and professional activities are not widely available.
No brothers have been identified in the reliable family reporting reviewed.
André Tourigny’s Family and His Early Coaching Career
André Tourigny began coaching organized hockey in 1994 at approximately 20 years old.
His first opportunity came through a connection with Mélanie’s extended family.
After initially joining a youth team as an assistant, he unexpectedly became the head coach when the original coach accepted another job.
He subsequently developed his coaching skills through minor hockey programs in Quebec.
In 1998, he joined the Shawinigan Cataractes as an assistant coach in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.
After additional experience with the Trois-Rivières Estacades, he became head coach of the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies in November 2002.
He remained with the organization for 11 seasons, developing a reputation as a demanding coach who emphasized discipline and player development.
During this period, Mélanie and their young children supported him while adapting to the responsibilities associated with major junior hockey.
How André Tourigny’s Family Supported His NHL Journey
In 2013, André Tourigny accepted an opportunity to join the Colorado Avalanche as an assistant coach.
The position represented his first coaching role in the NHL.
After two seasons with Colorado, he joined the Ottawa Senators for the 2015–16 season.
He subsequently returned to junior hockey, coaching the Halifax Mooseheads before becoming head coach of the Ottawa 67’s in 2017.
During his time in Ottawa, he won consecutive Ontario Hockey League Coach of the Year awards for the 2018–19 and 2019–20 seasons.
He also received the Canadian Hockey League Coach of the Year award in 2020.
In July 2021, the Arizona Coyotes hired him as their head coach.
The appointment fulfilled a long-standing professional ambition and reflected nearly three decades of coaching experience.
Tourigny repeatedly acknowledged that the achievement would not have been possible without Mélanie and their children.
André Tourigny’s Family Life in Utah
In 2024, Tourigny relocated with the Arizona franchise’s hockey operations to Utah.
The move allowed him and Mélanie to begin a new chapter in Salt Lake City.
In a September 2024 interview with L’Hebdo Journal, Tourigny confirmed that he and his wife had settled in Utah in early July.
Their three adult children remained in Canada, where they were pursuing university studies and professional careers.
Although the family lived in different locations, they continued maintaining close relationships.
Tourigny has discussed how much he values opportunities to see his children during holidays and road trips to Canada.
André Tourigny’s Family Christmas Traditions
One of the family’s favorite activities is playing board games together.
In December 2024, Tourigny told the Deseret News that his children were traveling to Utah for Christmas.
He explained that the family particularly enjoyed playing Catan, a strategy board game.
They also enjoyed card games, friendly competition, and spending time together during the holidays.
Tourigny admitted that his competitive personality remained noticeable even during family board games.
However, he emphasized that spending meaningful time with loved ones was more important than winning.
He viewed the NHL’s Christmas break as a valuable opportunity to temporarily step away from professional responsibilities and reconnect with his family.
André Tourigny’s Contract Extension With Utah
On June 22, 2026, the Utah Mammoth announced that André Tourigny had signed a multiyear contract extension to remain the organization’s head coach.
The agreement followed a successful 2025–26 season in which Utah qualified for the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since the franchise relocated.
Under Tourigny’s leadership, the Mammoth finished the regular season with a 43-33-6 record.
The organization praised his leadership, communication skills, and ability to build a strong team culture.
Tourigny expressed gratitude for the opportunity to continue coaching in Utah.
He also emphasized that he and his family enjoyed living in the state and hoped to strengthen their connections to the community.
Frequently Asked Questions About André Tourigny’s Family
Who is André Tourigny’s wife?
André Tourigny’s wife is Mélanie Allard, a Canadian nurse who has supported his professional coaching career for decades.
Is André Tourigny married?
Yes. André Tourigny is married to Mélanie Tourigny, formerly Mélanie Allard. Their marriage is confirmed in official Hockey Canada biographies and interviews.
What does André Tourigny’s wife do?
Mélanie Tourigny has worked as a nurse, including during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Ottawa region.
How many children does André Tourigny have?
André Tourigny has three children with his wife Mélanie: twin sons Félix-Antoine and Jean-Philippe, and daughter Marie-Léa.
Who are André Tourigny’s sons?
His sons are Félix-Antoine Tourigny and Jean-Philippe Tourigny, twins born in February 2000. Both played competitive youth hockey.
Are André Tourigny’s sons twins?
Yes. Félix-Antoine and Jean-Philippe Tourigny are twins. Félix-Antoine played as a forward, while Jean-Philippe played as a goaltender.
Who is André Tourigny’s daughter?
His daughter is Marie-Léa Tourigny. In September 2024, L’Hebdo Journal reported that she was working for the Canada Revenue Agency.
Who are André Tourigny’s parents?
His parents are Maurice Tourigny and Denise Tourigny, who raised him in Sainte-Monique, near Nicolet, Quebec.
Who is André Tourigny’s father?
His father is Maurice Tourigny, whom André credits with teaching him patience, composure, and thoughtful decision-making.
Who is André Tourigny’s mother?
His mother is Denise Tourigny, whose positive attitude and encouragement strongly influenced his coaching philosophy.
How many siblings does André Tourigny have?
André Tourigny has two publicly documented siblings, his sisters Chantal and Johanne Tourigny.
Who are André Tourigny’s sisters?
His sisters are Chantal Tourigny and Johanne Tourigny, who grew up alongside him in Quebec.
Where is André Tourigny’s family from?
André Tourigny grew up in Sainte-Monique, near Nicolet, Quebec, Canada. His wife and children also have strong connections to Quebec and Ontario.
Why is André Tourigny called Bear?
Tourigny is widely known by the nickname Bear, a name used by colleagues and members of the hockey community throughout his coaching career.
Does André Tourigny’s family live in Utah?
André and his wife Mélanie established a home in Utah in 2024. Their three adult children remained in Canada at that time, although they regularly visited their parents.
Living and breathing ice hockey, Bernald Sanders delivers comprehensive coverage of the NHL season from puck drop to the Stanley Cup Finals. He specializes in tactical breakdowns, trade analysis, power-play strategies, and tracking rising draft prospects. Bernald turns fast-paced on-ice action into clear, sharp insights for hockey fans around the globe.
