While Adam Foote may not possess the extensive head coaching background typical of someone landing their first major National Hockey League position, the 53-year-old former defenseman, recently named the 22nd head coach of the Vancouver Canucks, has significantly more experience than when he began as an NHL assistant just two and a half years ago.
Speaking from Philadelphia, Rick Tocchet, who previously held the Canucks` coaching job until last month and was the 21st coach, expressed immense pride in Foote`s promotion. Tocchet stated, “It makes me so proud. He`d never coached behind an NHL bench before, but that didn`t matter to me because I knew he was smart and destined to become a head coach. From the first month working together and collaborating, I foresaw him becoming a head coach one day. I am truly proud of him.”
Tocchet lauded Foote`s character, high hockey intelligence, and willingness to learn, noting that Foote demonstrated these qualities consistently. He added, “There are numerous great stories of coaches emerging unexpectedly. I believe Footy is prepared for this challenge. His two and a half years in Vancouver allowed him to gain considerable experience. He witnessed a wide range of situations and, by living through them, I think he now understands how to handle things.”
Tocchet himself is scheduled to hold a press conference following the announcement by the Philadelphia Flyers that they have hired the ex-Canucks coach. Tocchet led Vancouver to a 109-point season last year, earning him the title of reigning NHL coach of the year.
Tristan Blackwood