The Prince George Spruce Kings will have a new man behind the bench next season.
Due to family reasons, Chad van Diemen is stepping down from his role as head coach. Van Diemen joined the Spruce Kings in April 2015 and guided a young rebuilding team to a 14-38-4-2 record during the 2015/16 season. During the 2016/17 season van Diemen guided the team to a much improved 25-27-4-2 record which included a spot in the BCHL playoffs. The team lost a tough seven-game series to the first place Wenatchee Wild in six games.
“Chad did a great job as the head coach of our team,”said Spruce Kings General Manager Mike Hawes. “Chad was someone that I had targeted back in 2015 when we were seeking a new Head Coach. He brought a lot of passion, commitment and hockey knowledge to the position. Our organization and our players were fortunate to have Chad as their Head Coach and while it is tough to see him step away it is the right decision at this time. We are all very passionate about this organization but family certainly comes before hockey.”
In conjunction with van Diemen stepping away, the team has promoted associate coach Adam Maglio to the position of head coach.
“It was an absolute no brainer for me,” said Hawes. “As soon as I became aware of the situation with Chad I immediately knew who I would wanted to be our next head coach. Adam is an incredibly prepared, organized and committed person who is one the best young and progressive coaches in junior A hockey. He has shown me over the past two seasons that he is more than ready and capable to take the reins as our new Head Coach. I look forward to continuing the process of moving our organization forward with Adam.”
“I would like to thank the Prince George Spruce King’s organization for the opportunity to become the team’s next head coach,” said Maglio. “I’m extremely excited to continue working with a deeply dedicated staff of quality individuals who are committed to development and ultimately winning. We have a very solid base to build on from last season in which, I believe, we made tremendous steps and growth as a team. I’m thrilled to push forward next season in working towards our ultimate goal of bringing a championship to the City of Prince George.”
