The Dryden GM Ice Dogs have announced that Head Coach and General Manager Jake Gushue has accepted an opportunity to continue his coaching career with another organization.
Gushue leaves the Ice Dogs after making a significant impact on the organization both on and off the ice.
A former Ice Dogs player and member of the team’s 2016/17 championship squad, Gushue returned to the organization as an assistant coach before eventually taking on the role of Head Coach and General Manager.
Throughout his tenure, he demonstrated a strong commitment to player development, competitive excellence, and fostering a culture that refl ected the values of the Ice Dogs organization and the Dryden community.
“Staff transitions are always a challenge in the family environment we try to foster here, but we’re incredibly proud of what Jake has accomplished with the Dryden GM Ice Dogs and excited for the opportunity that lies ahead for him,” said Mike Sveinson, President of the Dryden GM Ice Dogs. “
As an organization, we want to be a place where good people can grow, develop, and advance in hockey. Jake has earned this opportunity through his hard work, commitment to his players, and dedication to our program.
On behalf of our Board of Directors, staff, players, volunteers, and fans, we thank him for everything he has contributed to the Ice Dogs and wish him nothing but success in this next chapter.”
For Gushue, the decision to leave Dryden is accompanied by gratitude for a community and organization that have played an important role throughout his hockey journey.
“Dryden has been home for a signifi cant part of my hockey journey, and leaving is certainly bittersweet. I was fortunate to come to Dryden as a player, win a championship with the Ice Dogs, and experience fi rsthand what makes this organization and community so special. That championship run created memories and relationships that have stayed with me throughout my career and played a major role in shaping my passion for coaching and leadership.”
“To then have the opportunity to return as an assistant coach, and later serve as Head Coach and General Manager, was something I never took for granted. I am incredibly proud of what we accomplished together and grateful for the chance to work alongside outstanding players, dedicated staff, billets, volunteers, sponsors, and fans who care deeply about the success of the Ice Dogs and the development of young athletes.”
“Dryden helped shape me both personally and professionally. The lessons learned, friendships built, and experiences gained over the years have prepared me for this next chapter. While the opportunity to be back in B.C, is an exciting opportunity for me, leaving Dryden is not easy.”
“I want to sincerely thank everyone who has supported me throughout my time with the organization. The Ice Dogs will always hold a special place in my heart, and I will forever be proud to have been a player, a champion, a coach, and a friend in this community. I wish the organization, its players, and its supporters nothing but continued success in the years ahead.”
The Dryden GM Ice Dogs would like to sincerely thank Jake for his dedication to the organization and for the countless hours he has invested in helping players develop both on and off the ice.
His leadership, passion, and commitment have left a lasting impact on the program and the community.
Information regarding the future leadership of the hockey operations department will be announced at a later date.
