The Saskatoon Blades have a new head coach and general manager after Bob Woods announced he is returning to the National Hockey League (NHL).
Dean Brockman, who has worked alongside Woods for the last two seasons, is the new bench boss.
“It’s time for results and we are committed to take a major step forward this season,” Brockman stated.
“We have a room full of great players who have outstanding character. They’ve taken great strides during our time together and I can’t wait to work with them to seize the opportunity we have in front of us.”
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Prior to joining the Blades, Brockman coached the Humboldt Broncos for 17 years, leading the team to two Royal Bank Cups in 2003 and 2008.
He also guided the Broncos to four Anavet Cup Championship titles and was named Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) coach of the year four times.
Colin Priestner, who takes over as general manager on a full-time basis, believes Brockman is the right person to take over the team.
“We believe Dean is a great fit to carry on to what we have been building for three years while adding a different perspective to our players,” Priestner said.
“Our fans are anxious for a return to the playoffs and so are we. It’s been a long wait and we have every intention of returning to the playoffs this coming season.”
Priestner, 32, becomes the youngest general manager in the Western Hockey League (WHL).
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Woods, who is heading to the Buffalo Sabres to become Dan Bylsma’s assistant coach, said the opportunity was too good to pass up.
It’s a chance to work alongside a Stanley Cup winning coach who also coached in the AHL. It’s an example I’d love to follow,” stated Woods.
“I have mixed emotions leaving the Blades since the team is turning the corner but I know the players are in great hands.”
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