The Indy Fuel announced Wednesday that head coach Duncan Dalmao will not return to the organization for the 2026-27 season. Dalmao is departing Indy to join the Bakersfield Condors of the American Hockey League as an assistant coach.
Dalmao spent five seasons with the Fuel organization and became interim head coach late in the 2021-22 season. He was officially named the fourth head coach in franchise history before the 2022-23 campaign.
During his tenure, Dalmao established himself as the winningest coach in Indianapolis hockey history, recording 159 regular-season victories. He also guided the Fuel to four consecutive Kelly Cup Playoff appearances.
The 2022-23 season marked one of the most successful campaigns in franchise history. Under Dalmao, the Fuel set a franchise record with 43 regular-season wins while also securing a postseason berth. Indy also established new team records with 244 goals scored and 23 road victories.
Dalmao Leaves His Mark on Indy
Fuel Owner and Chairman Jim Hallett praised Dalmao for his contributions to the organization, both on and off the bench and within the community.
“I would like to sincerely thank Duncan for his contributions to our team over the past five seasons,” Hallett said. He added that the organization remains proud of Dalmao’s accomplishments and his opportunity to continue advancing his coaching career.
Dalmao also expressed his appreciation for the organization, its fans, players and staff, as well as the communities of Indianapolis and Fishers.
After arriving in Indiana five years ago, Dalmao said the area eventually came to feel like home. He also thanked the Fuel’s hockey operations staff and the organization’s affiliates, the Rockford IceHogs and Chicago Blackhawks, for their support and trust in player development.
Dalmao reflected on the relationships he built during his time with the Fuel, noting that some of his most meaningful memories came during practices, games, road trips and time spent with players and staff.
His departure brings an end to one of the most successful coaching tenures in Fuel history. Dalmao leaves behind a record that includes franchise milestones, consistent postseason appearances and significant growth for the organization.
The move to Bakersfield represents the next step in Dalmao’s coaching career as he transitions from the ECHL to the AHL.
The Condors compete in the AHL and serve as an affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers organization. Dalmao will now bring his experience from Indy to the next level of professional hockey.
The Fuel will begin identifying their next head coach as preparations continue for the 2026-27 season.
