Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Spokane Chiefs finalize hockey staff

Press Release

The Spokane Chiefs have finalized their hockey staff as they announced the re-signing of Assistant Coach Jon Klemm and Director of Player Personnel Chris Moulton.

The Chiefs have also announced that Goaltending Coach Denis Sproxton, Athletic Therapist/Strength Coach Todd Daniels and Equipment Manager Kacee Coberly will return for the 2010-11 season.

“I’m excited about working with a new staff,” Chiefs Head Coach Don Nachbaur said. “I’m also looking forward to training camp, getting to know the guys and working with them throughout the year.”

Klemm returns to the staff for his second season as Assistant Coach, joining the newly appointed Nachbaur on the Chiefs bench. Klemm was named to the Top 25 Chiefs in 25 years in February due his efforts as a player. The former defenseman was the Chiefs captain during their first Memorial Cup championship in 1991 and went on to a 17-year pro career that included a pair of Stanley Cup Championships with the Colorado Avalanche (1996, 2001).

“Jon will be a calming influence on the group because of his experience playing in the WHL, here in Spokane and the NHL. Anytime a guy has played at that level for that many years it speaks to his character. His experience is invaluable, especially working with the defensemen,” Nachbaur said.

“Last year was a learning experience and I thought I learned a lot. I knew it would be a lot of work, but until you’ve been there you don’t really know the preparation that goes forth to make sure your group of players is ready to play every night,” Klemm said.

“I’m excited to improve as a coach and try to make our hockey club better.”

Klemm signed a two-year deal.

Moulton has signed a three-year deal. The Fernie, BC native originally joined the organization in June, 2005.

“Chris has proven he is excellent at what he does. He takes pride in his job, has great enthusiasm and, most importantly, represents our organization and city of Spokane professionally and with class,” Chiefs General Manager Tim Speltz said.

“It was an easy decision to re-sign with the organization,” Moulton said.

“I have enjoyed my time with the Chiefs, it is a great program and organization and I am honored to be a part of it. The team has treated me and my family very well.

“I’m excited about a new era, watching our young players grow in the next couple of seasons and working very closely with Don,” Moulton finished.

The Chiefs will open their Annual Fall Camp with ice sessions on Thursday, August 26th. The Red-White Scrimmage will be played at the Spokane Arena at 1:00 on Sunday, August 29th. Camp and the Red-White game will be free and open to the public.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

No comments: