Although both Dallas and the Texas Stars did not make the post-season this year, there is still a lot of news and announcements coming out of both camps. As previously reported, the Texas Stars let go of their coaches Jeff Pyle and Jeff Truitt after a disappointing performance this year. The word around the Stars organization was that the replacement would be someone who was familiar with Glen Gulutzan‘s system. These rumors turned about to be correct when it was announced today that the new head coach of the Texas Stars would be Willie Desjardins (Duh-ZHAR-dihns).

With 27 years of coaching experience, Desjardins was my first choice for head coach. He has many years under his belt coaching young players, as his most successful years were with the WHL’s Medicine Hat Tigers. Although we have not been apprised of the other official coaching candidates, my guess was that Paul Jerrard would not have wanted to leave the cush position he has with the Dallas Stars.

Desjardins will be introduced to the media at the Cedar Park Center Thursday June 14th at 11am. Texas GM Scott White and Dallas Stars head coach Glen Gulutzan will be in attendance as well. Dallas GM Joe Nieuwendyk had this to say about Coach Willie, “We believe that Willie’s track record as a teacher of the game and his ability to develop young players is a perfect fit for the Texas Stars. His knowledge of Glen Gulutzan’s system and his familiarity with our prospects will continue to improve player development between Dallas and the Texas Stars.” (Source: www.texasstarshockey.com)

From a Texas Stars fan perspective, I cannot wait for the season to start and believe that Desjardins is the perfect candidate to usher in a new era of young, talented players.