The Anaheim Geese have named Joel Quenneville their new head coach, the group introduced Thursday.
The choice comes practically 4 years after Quenneville resigned from teaching amid the fallout of a sexual assault investigation involving his former group, the Chicago Blackhawks.
The 66-year-old, who ranks second in all-time NHL teaching wins, was formally reinstated by the NHL in July 2023 after commissioner Gary Bettman cleared him to return following an intensive evaluate.
Who Is Joel Quenneville?
Joel Quenneville brings a Corridor of Fame-caliber résumé to Anaheim. He received three Stanley Cups with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2010, 2013, and 2015 and earned NHL Coach of the Yr honors in 2000 with the St. Louis Blues.
Throughout practically three a long time behind the bench, Quenneville has compiled a staggering 969 regular-season wins—a mark that locations him second in league historical past. His repute as a tactical mastermind and motivator made him a sought-after candidate for groups in search of playoff success.
For the Geese, who haven’t reached the postseason since 2018, hiring Quenneville alerts a want to re-enter the Stanley Cup dialog.
Geese Handle Joel Quenneville’s Position in 2010 Blackhawks Sexual Assault Scandal
Quenneville’s hiring, nevertheless, doesn’t come with out controversy. The veteran coach resigned from the Florida Panthers in 2021 after an unbiased investigation revealed that Blackhawks management, together with Quenneville, didn’t take well timed motion following sexual assault allegations towards then-video coach Brad Aldrich through the 2010 playoffs.
The report indicated that Quenneville was current at a gathering discussing Aldrich’s actions, however delayed reporting whereas the group pursued a championship run. Quenneville had denied prior data of the assault till the probe’s findings surfaced.
In a press release, Geese GM Pat Verbeek mentioned the group carried out a “complete evaluate” earlier than making the rent.
“Our findings are per Joel’s account that he was not totally conscious of the severity of what transpired in 2010,” Verbeek mentioned.
“It’s clear that Joel deeply regrets not following up with extra questions on the time, has demonstrated significant private progress and accountability, and has earned the chance to return to teaching.”
NHL Reacts to Joel Quenneville’s Return to Teaching
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman had beforehand said that Quenneville would want approval to return to the league. After a non-public assembly and evaluate course of, Bettman cleared the coach in July 2023 to pursue employment within the NHL as soon as once more.
The league has not issued a proper assertion in response to the Geese’ announcement, however Quenneville acknowledged the burden of his return.
“In practically 4 years away from the sport, I’ve realized from my prior errors and realized will probably be actions over phrases that exhibit my dedication to being a greater chief,” Quenneville mentioned.
Anaheim Geese Betting on Management and Expertise to Finish Playoff Drought
By hiring Quenneville, the Geese are clearly signaling a win-now mentality. The group not too long ago dismissed Greg Cronin after simply two seasons behind the bench, opting to usher in a confirmed winner in hopes of turning round a struggling franchise.
“We imagine this can be a main step ahead in our technique of being a perennial playoff contender,” mentioned Verbeek.
With a core of promising younger expertise and a adorned coach on the helm, Anaheim’s entrance workplace is hoping Quenneville can information the Geese again to playoff prominence.
