Fort McMurray, AB (August 2, 2019) – The Fort McMurray Oil Barons are announcing that Dave Dupas has resigned as the team’s Head Coach and General Manager due to personal and family reasons. Dupas will remain an advisor to the organization. Effective immediately, Bob Beatty is the team’s new Head Coach and General Manager.
“Dave informed me of an opportunity that would allow him to be closer to his family in Kelowna,” said Oil Barons President David Fitzgerald. “Above all, family comes first.”
“Although he served as our Head Coach and General Manager for a short period of time, his knowledge and professionalism this offseason has been exceptionally valuable. On behalf of our organization, we wish Dave all the best in the future,” said Fitzgerald.
“This was a difficult decision for me because I have the upmost respect for the Oil Barons’ organization,” said Dupas. “Fort McMurray has been very welcoming to me and my family. The opportunity to come to the Casman Centre every day to coach the Oil Barons is an honour that is shared by few people. Going forward, I know that the team is in great hands under Bob’s leadership.”
?This offseason, Dave and Bob worked together to address our team’s needs,? added Fitzgerald. ?With many years of Junior A coaching experience, Dave and Bob share the same vision that supports the culture of our hockey club. We believe that this shared vision will help with the transition as we prepare for the season ahead.?
Additional announcements regarding the team’s coaching staff will be made before the start of the upcoming season.