There was a big shake-up in the Dragons office this week as Dan Price exited the organization, and a new head coach and general manager was appointed.
On Sunday afternoon, the Dragons announced that Price had been released from his position with the hockey club after two and a half years.
“His work ethic and professionalism is unmatched, and Dan was able to make huge strides for our program in so many ways, as an organization we will be very challenged to maintain the standards he set,” said Dragons Vice-President Rod Knelsen of Price.
“We weren’t having the success we were hoping for and felt it was time to right the ship and get a new voice and see if we can turn it around.”
On Monday afternoon, the Dragons made a second announcement. They have brought in Barry Wolff as head coach and general manager.
Wolff has 16 years of coaching experience, most recently as assistant coach for Team Canada West at the World Junior A Challenge. He has also served as associate head coach and assistant general manager with the Langley Chiefs for the last five years. During this time, the Chiefs won the Coastal Conference Pennant once and were Coastal Conference finalists once.
“We’re excited to welcome Barry to the Drumheller Dragons; he brings with him a wealth of experience and a record of proven success at the Junior A hockey level,” said Knelsen.
Some of Barry’s coaching accomplishments include being a finalist for the 2003-2004 NAHL Coach of the Year award, winning the 2002 Gold Cup Bronze Medal, and winning the BCHL Coach of the Year award for the 1997-1998 season.
“He’s been around a long time. Obviously he is more familiar with the BC Junior hockey leagues, being there for so long,” said Knelsen. “For the group of guys we have here, it’s a good thing. He will be a good fit for what we are needing at this point.”
Moving forward, Knelsen said they want to improve the depth of the team skill wise.
“Our recruiting has to be stronger to attract top end players to Drumheller. That’s how you build a wining team,” said Knelsen.
Wolff was on the ice with the Dragons on Monday afternoon for his first practice with the squad.
