Ferner was born in Regina, Saskatchewan. Selected 194th overall by the Buffalo Sabres in the 1983 NHL Entry Draft, Ferner also played for the Washington Capitals, Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, and Detroit Red Wings. Mark has 16 years of coaching experience with many achievements such as two-time coach of the year in the BCHL as well as the only coach to take 3 consecutive RBC championships winning two and losing in the finals the third time. Along with, 7 years coaching in the WHL as both an assistant and head coach. With scouting experience for the Buffalo Sabres.