Generals Appoint DJ Smith Head Coach

Press Release

The Oshawa Generals announced today the hiring of DJ Smith to the position of Head Coach.

"DJ is one of the bright young minds of coaching in the OHL,” commented General Manager Jeff Twohey. “He is a passionate young coach that lives and breathes the game. His passion as well as the demands he will put on our players will help create a positive identity and bring long term success to the Oshawa Generals. I am excited to add DJ to our staff and look forward to working with him in bringing success to the Oshawa Generals.”

Smith served as Assistant, and later Associate, Coach of the Windsor Spitfires from 2005 to 2011. During his six seasons with the team, the Spitfires captured two Memorial Cup Trophies as Champions of the Canadian Hockey League and appeared in the playoffs all but one year.

“We are extremely pleased to have DJ Smith as our new head coach of the Oshawa Generals, commented President and Governor Rocco Tullio. “His hard working reputation and extensive knowledge of the league and players, along with his ability to develop and win in this league, were all qualities we were looking for.”

Smith started his hockey career playing with the Windsor Spitfires from 1994 to 1997 as a defenseman. After being selected 41st overall in the second round of the 1995 NHL Entry Draft by the New York Islanders, Smith spent most of his career with the St. John’s Maple Leafs of the American Hockey League and also appeared with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Colorado Avalanche of the National Hockey League.

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