The Ever-Present Passion of Being a Coach
The world of coaching thrives on passion and opportunity. Recently, Hockey Canada announced that former Montreal Canadiens general manager Marc Bergevin has chosen his longtime colleague, Michel Therrien, to lead Team Canada at the upcoming Spengler Cup. This prestigious tournament will take place from December 26 to December 31 in Davos, Switzerland.
The Coaching Duo: Therrien and Bergevin
Michel Therrien, who served as head coach for the Canadiens from 2012 to 2017, expressed excitement about this opportunity. He stated, “The flame of a coach is always there. It’s in our blood.” Therrien believes that coaching is about timing and recognizing the right opportunities.
Unique Tournament Experience
Therrien highlighted the unique nature of the Spengler Cup. He noted that this tournament is highly valued in Europe and promises an extraordinary atmosphere in Davos. For Therrien, it also presents a chance to meet new players and expand his professional network.
- Event: Spengler Cup
- Dates: December 26 – December 31
- Location: Davos, Switzerland
“Heavy with honor,” Therrien sees the chance to coach Team Canada at this event as a significant achievement in his career.
Coaching Staff Composition
Alongside Therrien, a strong coaching staff will assist him, including:
- Drew Bannister
- Rob Cookson
- Patrice Lefebvre
- Video coach Jérémy Coupal
Bergevin expressed confidence in this diverse group, which combines vast experience from the NHL, AHL, and international arenas. The goal is to secure Canada’s first title since 2019.
Therrien’s Coaching Journey
Therrien has had an extensive coaching career. He led the Penguins of Pittsburgh to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2008 and has spent significant time in various roles within the NHL. Recently, he served as an assistant coach for the Philadelphia Flyers from 2019 to 2021.
When asked about a potential return to the NHL, Therrien acknowledged the reality of an expiration date for coaches in the league. He shared, “I see my time in the NHL as privileged,” emphasizing his current focus on representing Canada at the Spengler Cup.
Preliminary Round and Matches
In the preliminary round, Canada will compete in a pool that includes:
- Host team HC Davos
- American University Selection
The opening match for Team Canada is scheduled for December 26. The preliminary round will conclude on December 28, with the championship match held on December 31.
Coaching is a lifelong passion for Therrien, and the upcoming tournament serves as a reminder of the vibrant life experiences it fosters. The Spengler Cup is more than just a competition; it’s an opportunity to embrace the coaching journey.
