THE PHOENIX CONFIRMS NEW HOCKEY STRUCTURE
The Sherbrooke Phoenix announce today that Gilles Bouchard will assume the role of General Manager as well as his current position as Head Coach. The Normandin, Lac St-Jean native will now be the head of the Club’s hockey department after assuming the role as interim in the weeks following the departure of Philippe Sauvé. With his similar experience with the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, where he led the Club to the top of the league, the organisation is proud to give to reins to someone who, in the last 2 years, has left his mark on the identity of the Phoenix. His rigor, his leadership, and his experience are only a few of his qualities that fit perfectly with the values of the organisation which Gilles Bouchard the logical choice to continue the progression of the Club.
Back as Vice-President of Hockey Operations since last season, Jocelyn Thibault commented on the changes announced to the hockey structure, “We took the necessary time to discuss with Gilles his interest in occupying the two positions. We talked about his vision, and we quickly understood that his plan fit perfectly with our values. The Administrative Board is very happy to count on a man of Gilles Bouchard’s calibre to occupy the General Manager position, while also maintaining his position as Head Coach. This promotion will allow us to strengthen stability within our staff.”
“Two years after my initial hiring, they offer me the opportunity to hold the position of General Manager and to take up this challenge once again. I am a man of destiny, and the door opened. I will make the most of it and work to the best of the organisation,” expressed Gilles Bouchard.
Other changes were made to the Hockey Operations team. Daniel Paradis is named Assistant General Manager, scouting and Director of European Scouting. Jonathan Deschênes will also assume the role of Assistant General Manager as well as Associate Coach. Charles Ménard remains Director of Scouting and adds the title of Hockey Operations Consultant. Finally, Assistant Coach, Shawn Lanoue, adds the position of Director of Player Development to his functions.
“I like teamwork, and delegating is not a problem for me. I may be the General Manager, but it’s a team job in my opinion. I want to collaborate with every member of my team to progress the Phoenix,” added the new Club leader regarding the changes to the structure.
Gilles Bouchard and his team are already at work, preparing for the next QMJHL Entry Draft, which will take place on June 6 and 7 at the Vidéotron Centre in Québec.
