Thursday, July 19, 2012

WHEAT KINGS NAME GYLYWOYCHUK HEAD COACH

Press Release

Brandon, MB. -- The Brandon Wheat Kings will have a familiar face behind the bench when they take to the ice for the 2012-13 Western Hockey League season this September.

Wheat Kings' General Manager Kelly MCrimmon has announced that longtime assistant Dwayne Gylywoychuk has been promoted and will handle the head coaching duties this year.

"This is an opportunity that Dwayne has earned," says McCrimmon. "He has been an integral part of a successful program for many years. During that time he has gained a great deal of experience, and he now takes the next step to be a Head Coach."

A 39-year old Winnipeg native, Gylywoychuk takes over from Cory Clouston, who was relieved of his duties following the 2011-12 campaign.

"I'm very excited to start my head coaching career in Brandon, with an organization that is deep in tradition and rich in history."

Gylywoychuk, who joined the club's coaching staff in 2003 and has worked under Dean Clark, Mike Kelly, Kelly McCrimmon and Clouston during his tenure, signed a multi-year contract with the club.

"I would like to thank Kelly and the Wheat Kings' organization for this opportunity," he went on to say. "I look forward to working with Kelly and Darren."

Joining Gylywoychuk on the bench will be former teammate Darren Ritchie, who will be returning for his sixth season with the team.

A 5-year WHL player, Gylywoychuk is the proud owner of one of the hockey club's most respected records - Most Games Played in a Wheat Kings' career. Gylywoychuk suited up for a franchise record 323 games.

Before returning to Brandon in 2001, Gylywoychuk played eight seasons of professional hockey.

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

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