The Baie-Comeau Drakkar have fired head coach Mario Pouliot, the team's general manager Steve Ahern announced today at a press conference.Ahern will take over as the team's bench boss for the remaining three games of the season and playoffs.
In a team press release, Ahern said the team's assessment 10 days before the playoffs left the team with little hope of improvement.
"It's a very difficult decision to make for our organization. We gave the necessary support to Mario and we have supported in his work since joining the team in November 2010."
Ahern added that Pouliot worked with great enthusiasm and professionalism.
"However, in the circumstances, we must restore hope and try to allow the club and its players to regain positive momentum, which no longer possible to feel these days."
Pouliot spent a season and half behind the bench for Baie-Comeau, coaching the Drakkar to a 37-77 record for 87 points in 114. games.
Ahern said he does not want a coaching career but is doing what is good for the team, he said.
"I will finish the campaign and we will settle it all later and enjoy the off-season to recruit a new head coach."
His goal is to regain the team's confidence and play to their full potential, said Ahern.
"We believe the team can play with much more conviction and unity. This will meet the players and they will have the flexibility to gather and grow together in the same direction."
The Drakkar went 2-7-0-1 in its last 10 games, falling from ninth overall to 14th overall.
See the press release here.
Translated version here.
nolan@theqspot.ca
