Despite the fact it's the dog days of summer, most hockey teams are in the midst of preparations for the 2019-2020 hockey season, including the AC Avalanche who are searching for an assistant coach.  

The 'AC' stands for Airdrie-Cochrane and the team is a member of the Airdrie Cochrane Athletic Association along with the Airdrie Xtreme AAA Bantams and the Airdrie CFR Chemicals AAA Midget Bisons.  The Avalanche are a Minor Midget AAA club for 15-year-old, first-year midget players.

Av's Head Coach Terry Sydoryk calls the position a great opportunity for someone who wants to move up and continue their progression in coaching.

"Last year, for example, Tyson Soloski was an assistant coach with the team.  He had previous experience in Cochrane and now he's moved on to the Bantam AAA (Xtreme) head coaching position," says Sydorski.  "It's a great way to get involved in the AAA or Elite stream and then go from there."

In order to be a successful coach at the Avalanche level, a person needs to be fully aware of the level of commitment that's required says Sydoryk.  The team practices in Cochrane two nights a week, has a 34-game schedule in the Alberta Minor Midget AAA Hockey League and will be looking to play in two or three tournaments this season. They should also have playing and coaching experience at a high level.

"At the end of the day, it's no different than players," Sydoryk explains. "We're looking for someone with character and a commitment level that will make them someone who can work with the players for the entire year."

Sydoryk says his philosophy with coaches also doesn't differ a lot from his philosophy with players.  An opportunity for development.  For that reason, he isn't looking for a coach who specializes in any particular aspect of the game.

Sydoryk says they've established a July 31 deadline for applications but that could be extended until they come up with the right candidate.  He's already had interest shown in the position.  Sydoryk would like to have a person in place by the middle of August so they can help with planning and meet the rest of the coaching staff prior to the season starting.

Anyone interested in the position can get in touch with Sydoryk by email at terry.sydoryk@gmail.com or by phone at 403 681-0934.