Wayne Gretzky called it an end today as really with the uncertain situation over ownership….he really had no choice. Statement below thanks to KuklasKorner and Paul of course:
(Phoenix, Ariz.)–Wayne Gretzky announced today that he is stepping down as Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations of the Phoenix Coyotes Hockey Club, effective immediately. “This was a difficult decision that I’ve thought long and hard about,” said Gretzky. “We all hoped there would be a resolution earlier this month to the Coyotes ownership situation, but the decision is taking longer than expected. Since both remaining bidders have made it clear that I don’t fit into their future plans, I approached General Manger Don Maloney and suggested he begin looking for someone to replace me as coach. Don has worked hard and explored many options. I think he has made an excellent choice, and so now it’s time for me to step aside.
“The Coyotes scouting staff has put together a great group of young and talented players who are going to improve tremendously over the next few years,” continued Gretzky. “I’m proud of the team we’ve assembled, the organization with which I’ve been associated and the thousands of dedicated fans who have never wavered in their support of this young team. I’m confident that the best is yet to come for hockey in Phoenix.
“I want to thank every staff member of the Phoenix Coyotes, past and present. It was a real pleasure to work with each and every one of you. I’ve always said that Phoenix is a great sports city and deserves nothing but the best. I still believe that. As a young boy, I learned to play hockey in Southern Ontario, and I know what great fans they have there. It’s my hope they too will have an NHL franchise in the not too distant future.
“I often said it was the greatest honor and privilege I could imagine to be able to play in the National Hockey League. I feel the same way about being an NHL coach. I’ve loved the four years I spent coaching the Coyotes. Not a day went by when I took it for granted, and I will miss the competition of the NHL dearly. It was an honor to hold the position, and I will always consider myself especially fortunate to have had this opportunity.”
I do not deny that this was a very hard decision for Gretzky. However, maybe it could have been done sooner. There will be more on this breaking story throughout the day on The Program and RLD. The video from Bloomberg TV….yes Bloomberg TV.
Breaking news….
Update at 2:20pm ET: Dave Tippett will be named Coyotes coach according to Bob Mckenzie and other sources at a 3pm LOCAL press conference.
UPDATE (7pm ET): Tippett is a good coach but the press conferences will drive media crazy. It should be interesting to see what he can do there. Remember he had two 50 win seasons with Dallas. He does have some very good young talent to work with though who knows what his budget will be like. Good luck Dave…you are going to need it.
Sincerely,
Chris Wassel
Director Of The Program
