Micheal Ferland Joins The Kenora Devils Gap Islanders as Skills Coach
The Kenora Devils Gap Islanders have made a significant addition to their coaching staff by welcoming former NHL player Micheal Ferland as their new skills coach. This move is expected to bring a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the team, especially for the younger players aiming to refine their skills and elevate their game. The the Kenora Devils Gap Islanders are a Junior A Hockey club in the Superior International Junior Hockey League. Last season, the Islanders finished dead last in the eight team league winning only 2 of their 49-games played.
The Kenora Devils Gap Islanders are excited to announce that Micheal Ferland has been hired as Skills Coach for the 24-25 Season.
We would like to welcome Micheal and his Family to the Islanders Organization. pic.twitter.com/Pfv8Wssv82
— Kenora Devils Gap Islanders (@SIJHL_Islanders) July 16, 2024
Ferland, known for his gritty play and scoring touch during his time in the NHL, brings a unique blend of on-ice expertise and a deep understanding of the game’s physical and mental demands. After a career that included stints with the Calgary Flames, Carolina Hurricanes, and Vancouver Canucks, Ferland was forced to step away from playing due to lingering concussion issues. However, his passion for hockey remained, leading him to pursue a role where he could continue contributing to the sport. Prior to accepting this role, he was the assistant coach of the Brandon Wheat Kings U18 AAA team and he led Team Manitoba to a national title at the 2023 NAHC in Winnipeg,
As a skills coach, Ferland will focus on developing the players’ technical abilities, such as shooting, stickhandling, and skating, while also imparting his knowledge of the game’s intricacies. His presence is expected to be particularly beneficial for players looking to add an edge to their game, drawing from his experiences in high-pressure situations at the NHL level.