The Okotoks Oilers regretfully announce that GM/Head Coach Garry VanHereweghe, has decided to step down from his position with the Oilers.
VanHereweghe, joined the club as the GM/Coach one year ago, for his second tenure with the Oilers, he previously held the same position from 2005 to 2007. This past season Garry successfully guided the club to a South Divisional Championship before losing out in the Provincial semi-finals to the Fort McMurray Oil Barons capping a successful 2009/10 season.
Oilers President Wayne Lauinger stated, “It is with surprise and disappointment that I make this announcement. We anticipated another successful season with Garry at the helm, but a difference in the coach’s philosophy and the player’s expectations and beliefs became an issue of concern between the coach and the players. Garry’s decision was made out of respect for the players and the Oilers organization. Garry decided to step down at this point in the season to allow a new coach the time to build his team. The Okotoks Oilers respect Garry’s decision and wish him and his family all the best with their future endeavours.”
Associate Coach Chris Fuss will continue as the Interim Head Coach indefinitely, and will be supported by Assistant Coaches Lyle Seitz and Rocky Zinger.