The Dauphin Kings made it official earlier today that Doug Hedley will be the team's new Head Coach and General Manager going forward.
"We know that we have a great group of talented kids, but we weren't seeing the full potential," said Scott McCallum, Director of Hockey Operations. "When we set out looking for a coach, we knew we wanted a veteran coach and someone who is a leader. We were excited that Doug's name came to the forefront, and we're really excited to have him as a part of the Kings organization."
In 358 games behind the bench with the Kings, Hedley has a 217-116-17-8 record, and he's second to only Marlin Murray (556) in regular season games coached, and wins.
Hedley also led the Parkland Rangers to a franchise record 24 wins in a single season during the 2014-2015 campaign.
"Doug brings so many things to the table as a coach," said McCallum. "He's going to be a tremendous coach for the Kings, and he's the leader the organization is looking for. He's so passionate about hockey, and that's what we needed."
"I'm really excited to be back in Dauphin as a part of the Kings organization," said Doug Hedley. "One of the first things I'll be looking to do is getting to know everyone within the organization. Also, going through the list, touching base with the veteran players, and letting them know what our expectations are going forward."
The Kings are coming off a 14-44-1-1 season, but Scott believes Doug is the guy who can change things very fast heading into next season.
"If we didn't think he could, we probably wouldn't have hired him," said McCallum. "He's a winner. When you go to a game in Mid-January, you're going to see a team that competes. He expects nothing less from his hockey team, and demands nothing less."
"The biggest thing we're going to work on is establishing our compete level, and willingness to work hard at all times," said Hedley. "We want to be a tough team to play against, and a team that loves wearing the crest. And, above all, we want to be great ambassadors for the community."
The Kings officially wrapped up their season last weekend with their Spring Camp & Combine, and Scott has a good feeling going forward.
"I'm really excited for the community," said McCallum. "I think we're heading towards a very exciting hockey season."
The Kings are now in search for an Assistant Coach going forward, and Doug shares how the process is going.
"I've already had a few phone calls from people that I'm familiar with who are interested," said Hedley. "We want to make sure we have the right guy when we choose."
When the Kings season starts next year, Doug notes there are some great reasons to come down to the rink to support.
"Fans are going to see an attitude, and compete level that they're going to enjoy," said Hedley. "We plan on getting better day by day."
Stay tuned to 730CKDM going forward to find out who the team's new AC will be when that decision is made.
