Former Thunder Legend Returns to Wichita

Travis Clayton was one of the faces of the Wichita Thunder during his 11 seasons playing in the Air Capital. He is at or near the top of every single offensive category in team history.

This week, one of the greatest players in Thunder history is back, this time as the club’s assistant coach. Clayton takes over for John Gurskis, who was recently named as the new Head Coach of the SPHL's Knoxville Ice Bears.

"I want to thank (the club) for giving me this opportunity," Clayton stated. "I'm super excited to come back to Wichita and help bring back a championship. It’s always been a special place for me and my family. I can’t wait to get things started. I also want to thank my family. They have been a huge part of both my playing and coaching career. Without their support I would not be able to do this.”

The 48-year-old Clayton will enter the pro ranks for the first time in his coaching career. The Paradise Hill, Saskatchewan native began coaching with the Western States Hockey League's Dallas Snipers in 2012-13.

Related: Nolan Kneen Is Back In Wichita

Clayton then transitioned back to Canada, where he took the helm of the Lloydminster Bobcats (U18 AAA) for three seasons. His most recent role was with the Alberta Junior Hockey League's Whitecourt Wolverines during the 2021-22 year.

Clayton is a Thunder legend. He sits second in club history in goals (326), second in assists (508), second in points (834), second in games played (696), first in power play goals (110), second in penalty minutes (1,063), first in shorthanded goals (26), first in game-winning goals (50) and first in plus/minus (+108).

After his time in Wichita, Clayton finished his playing career with the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs from 2009-10 to 2010-11. He won his first President's Cup Trophy with the Mudbugs during the 2010-11 season, tallying 13 points (3-10-13) in 21 playoff games.

Clayton finished his playing career with 983 points (382-601-983) in 880 Central Hockey League games.

Clayton and his wife, Toby, have two sons, Rhys and Jayce.