Cranbrook, BC – Jeff Chynoweth, General Manager of the Kootenay ICE Hockey Club, today announced Mark Holick has been named Head Coach of the Syracuse Crunch of the American Hockey League. The Crunch are the top minor league club of the NHL’s Anaheim Ducks.
“It’s a day of mixed emotions for our Hockey Club. Our job is to develop both players and coaches for the next level and for that we are extremely proud of the opportunity given to Mark. He has been with our organization since 2007 and has grown into one of the top coaches in the WHL. We wish Mark and his family all the best in his new job and thank him for his loyalty and friendship,” continued Chynoweth.
“This was a very tough decision to make, but just like the players I have aspirations to get to the next level. Professional Coaching jobs do not come along everyday and this is a great opportunity for both my family and myself. I would like to thank the Chynoweth family for giving me an opportunity three years ago and for allowing me to grow as a Head Coach. I have been very fortunate to work with some great people and coach some great players during my tenure as Head Coach and I will never forget the memories we shared,” commented Mark Holick.
Mark Holick has been with the ICE organization since August 2007. He posted a career regular season winning percentage of .604 (120-75-21 record) and made three consecutive playoff appearances. Mark was the Assistant Coach of Canada’s Under-18 team in 2009 and was named WHL Coach of the Year this past season. He becomes the fourth ICE coach since 2002 to advance to professional hockey (Ryan McGill – Assistant Coach, Calgary Flames, Cory Clouston – Head Coach, Ottawa Senators, Brad Lauer – Assistant Coach, Ottawa Senators).