Tuesday, March 26, 2013

HURRICANES' RICH PRESTON RELIEVED OF DUTIES

Press Release

Lethbridge, AB – The Lethbridge Hurricanes announced today the club has relieved General Manager and Head Coach Rich Preston of his duties effective immediately.

Last July, the Hurricanes Board of Directors unanimously agreed to exercise the 2013-2014 season option for Preston; however Board President Brian McNaughton says it was time to move in a new direction. “Rich has done what we have asked him by rebuilding the team through the draft and we appreciate all the work he has done. We are; however, not satisfied with the direction we headed in the last 30 games of the season and believe that making a change today is in the best interest of the franchise.”

Preston did start building the team by selecting players including Sam McKechnie, Adam Henry, Macoy Erkamps, Reid Duke and Ryan Pilon however during his four year tenure with the club, Preston failed to guide the Hurricanes to the playoffs finishing with a record of 100-156-13-19.

WHL Season:              Record:                       Conference Standing:

2009-2010                   20-44-5-3 (48 pts.)      11th in East

2010-2011                   23-36-5-8 (59 pts.)      9th in East

2011-2012                   29-42-0-1 (59 pts.)      11th in East

2012-2013                   28-34-3-7 (66 pts.)      9th in East

In relieving Preston of his duties, the club also announced Assistant General Manager, Brad Robson has been promoted to the position of General Manager. Robson has been with the club since 2007 and brings vast experience and knowledge to the club.

(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

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