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Written by Dale Woodard
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Monday, 11 May 2009 |
The Lethbridge Hurricanes’ hockey operations shift continues.
Three days after announcing Hurricanes head coach Mike Dyck’s contract would not be renewed, the club announced general manager Roy Stasiuk has also been relieved of his duties.
“We had high expectations and for a various number of reasons, those expectations haven’t been met,” said Hurricanes president Brian McNaughton at a press conference Monday afternoon at the Enmax Centre. ”We would like to continue to move on that path. We believe Roy has done a great job of accumulating a roster, but there needs to be more than that and success has to happen.”
After capturing the Eastern Conference title and advancing to the Western Hockey League final in 2007-2008 the Hurricanes went 35-32-3-2 this past season, eliminating the Saskatoon Blades in seven games in the opening round of the playoffs before getting swept by the Calgary Hitmen.
“I was informed of the decision (Monday) morning,” said Stasiuk. “I can’t say I’m surprised and I can’t say I’m bitter about anything. I’ve had a positive experience here in Lethbridge, so as far as the breakdown with Mike’s decision, that was something that was purely between the board and Mike and honouring Mike’s wishes from last June. I was asked for input on it and that’s where it ended as far as Mike and myself.”
McNaughton said there were no parallels between Stasiuk’s and Dyck’s dismissals.
“Absolutely not,” he said. ”This is an essential timing. Number one, to allow Mike to pursue other opportunities. The general manager will hire the head coach. That’s the proper order. So while we search for a general manager it was unfair for Mike to be held in limbo. Secondly, there is more than one person accountable for our lack of performance.”
With the European draft coming up, McNaughton said assistant general manager Brad Robson will work with governor Herman Elfring.
In the meantime, Stasiuk said he planned to take a little holiday time.
“I had that plan beforehand, anway. It’s an opportunity, I’m still under contract for one year,” he said. ”So it’s an opportunity to reflect a little bit and recharge the batteries.”
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