HAMILTON, ONTARIO. Hamilton Bulldogs President & General Manager Steve Staios has announced the hiring of Canadian National Women’s Team icon Laura Fortino as the first female Assistant Coach in OHL history as well as Director of Player Development with the Hamilton Bulldogs.
Fortino, a Hamilton native, has enjoyed a marvelous playing career dating back to her time locally with the Hamilton Huskies, Stoney Creek Sabres and Burlington Barracudas. Fortino starred with the Cornell Big Red from 2009-2013 and has since enjoyed professional success with the Brampton/Markham Thunder of the CWHL & has been a driving force behind the PWHPA.
Fortino’s biggest success has undoubtedly come on the international stage first representing Canada at a pair of Women’s U-18 Championships winning a silver medal in 2009. Fortino continued her ascendance at the highest-level medaling at every international tournament in which she skated including 6 Women’s World Championships and 2 Olympic Games, with a gold medal performance at the 2014 Sochi Olympics.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Laura to our Hamilton Bulldogs family. Laura exudes the passion, character and leadership that we covet in Hamilton.” said Bulldogs President & General Manager Steve Staios on the ceiling shattering hire. “We have witnessed firsthand through our training and development camps over the years, her ability to coach and mentor players. Laura’s playing experience and success speaks for itself, she has been an instrumental part on many Championship teams and undoubtably will carry on that success as a Coach.”.
“I’m thrilled to add Laura to our staff” said Hamilton Bulldogs Head Coach Jay McKee. “With her infectious personality and fantastic hockey resume, I’m grateful for the opportunity to work alongside her.”
For more information, visit hamiltonbulldogs.com.
