Olds, AB – The Olds Grizzlys are pleased to announce the coaching staff for the upcoming 2020-21 AJHL season.
Scott Atkinson will be starting his first full season as General Manager / Head Coach of the Grizzlys. Scott came to the Grizzlys from Salmon Arm of the BCHL. Scott’s impressive resume includes being one of the developers of the Edge School of Excellence Hockey Program after many successful seasons as head coach at the University of Calgary and Mount Royal College.
Joining Scott on the bench will be the return of Pete deGraaf for his third season as Grizzlys Assistant Coach. A Centennial Cup Champion as a player with the Penticton Vees and former Red Deer Rustler, Pete’s vast hockey knowledge and coaching experience was a huge asset last season as he served as Interim Head Coach during the period of transition before Scott Atkinson was hired.
New to the Grizzlys this season is Austin Ehret. Austin will serve in the roles of Assistant Coach (Skills Development) , Team Equipment Manager & Trainer. Austin has spent the last three seasons at the Edge School in Calgary and now is moving on to join the Grizzlys.
Also returning to the team for their second seasons is Jason Petrie as Grizzlys Director of Scouting and Dr. Andrew Jackson as the Team Physician.
“We are excited to have Scotty leading the Grizzlys organization in the role of GM & Head Coach, his resume and recuiting experience are unmatched and along with Pete and Austin, we can’t wait to get the season started. Its exciting times ahead for the Grizzlys organization,” stated Trent Wilhauk, Grizzlys Vice-President
The Olds Grizzlys would like to thank former Assistant Coach Chance Szott for all is contributions to the Grizzlys
“Chance felt that he could not continue in his role because of his full-time job and the successful skill development camps he offers as well. Chance was a great asset to the Grizzlys Organization and we wish him all the best moving forward. It was a pleasure to have Chance part of our Grizzlys Family,” said Trent Wilhauk, Grizzlys Vice President.
Also moving on is former Equipment Manager / Trainer Colby Bannister.
“Colby’s contract with the Grizzlys had expired and he has been training and studying to become a firefighter, so the organization felt it was best for both parties to move on. We thank Colby for all his efforts and wish him all the best in his future endeavors,” added Wilhauk.
The Grizzlys will have more exciting announcements in the near future as they become available. Hope everyone is staying safe and healthy.