Louis Robitaille Named Head Coach of the Eagles
The Cape Breton Eagles is excited to announce the appointment of Louis Robitaille as the new head coach of the team. With an impressive track record and a passion for the game, Robitaille brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the organization.
Louis Robitaille is a highly respected coach in the hockey community, having achieved remarkable success in the QMJHL. Robitaille spent the last three seasons as head coach of the Gatineau Olympiques, compiling a record of 104-38-25 record in 167 regular season games, while taking the Olympiques to their first league semifinal appearance since 2011 this past season. During his time in Gatineau in 2022-23, Robitaille led the team on a 20-game win steak to end the regular season and into the playoffs, while securing the top record in the QMJHL’s West Division.
Prior to his time with the Olympiques, Robitaille spent 4 seasons as head coach of the Victoriaville Tigres sporting a record of 133-106-28 in 267 games behind the bench.
Robitaille has also coached on the international scene for Team Canada in numerous IIHF U17 Championships and won a goal medal as an assistant coach with Team Canada at the 2022 World Junior Hockey Championships that were held in Edmonton in the summer of 2022. He was also named the head coach of Canada’s National Men’s Summer Under-18 Team for the 2020 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, which was ultimately cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We searched for a head coach that will get the Eagles to that championship position,” says Eagles Majority Owner, Irwin Simon. “With Louis as head coach, our burgeoning young roster, along with our recent draft choices, it will be an exciting time for the Eagles and our fans. I want to welcome Louis and his family to the Eagles and to Cape Breton.”
With an impressive coaching resume, Robitaille has consistently demonstrated his commitment to player development and the growth of young athletes. His emphasis on creating a positive and supportive environment enables players to thrive both on and off the ice. Robitaille’s coaching style fosters accountability, teamwork, and a strong work ethic, which are essential qualities for building a winning culture within the organization.
“As an organization, we are happy to have Louis as our head coach for the next four years,” says GM Sylvain Couturier. “When we began our search for a new head coach, we were looking for someone that will be accountable, has high coaching acumen, and is a proven winner in our league. Louis checks off all the characteristics we were looking for in a head coach and we’re excited to have him behind the bench in Cape Breton.”
Beyond his coaching accomplishments, Louis Robitaille also brings a deep understanding of the importance of family values to the sport. He credits his supportive family for his success, and he is known for fostering a tight-knit, family-like atmosphere within his teams. With his supportive wife, Amelie, son, Kayden, and two daughters, Rachel and Livia, the entire Robitaille family will come with Louis and call Cape Breton home. As a family, they understand the dedication required in the pursuit of excellence in the world of hockey.
“I would like to thank Mr. Simon, Sylvain Couturier, Gerard Shaw, and the entire Eagles organization for their confidence in me as their new head coach,” says Robitaille. “My family and I are excited to be moving to the great city of Sydney, and I am eager to work with the talented group of players in the Eagles organization.”
“Together, we will strive for excellence and create a dynamic and exciting brand of hockey that Cape Breton fans can be proud of. I am excited for this new chapter and look forward to the journey ahead with the Eagles.”
The Cape Breton Eagles organization is thrilled to have Louis Robitaille take the helm as the team’s new head coach. His experience, leadership, and dedication to the game align perfectly with the Eagles’ vision and values. With Robitaille’s guidance, the team is poised to continue its upward trajectory and bring excitement to fans both on and off the ice.
Please join us in welcoming Louis Robitaille and his family to the Cape Breton Eagles family at an introductory press conference on Monday, July 17th at 11:00am in the Main Concourse of Centre 200. All media and fans are welcome to attend.
