The Maine Mariners announced an addition to the hockey operations department on Wednesday, as Brad Staubitz was named Director of Hockey Development.
The 40-year-old Staubitz, a former NHL forward, most recently coached in the OHL for six seasons, bringing a wealth of experience in hockey highlighted by a 10-year professional playing career.
“I look forward to the opportunity to join the Mariners staff,” said Staubitz. “I have had some great conversations with the coaches and believe joining in the role of hockey development allows me to become another resource for the players. The primary focus of my role will be to work with the players to become better assets for the team and continue with individual development in their pro career.”
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Staubitz skated in 230 career NHL games with four teams, including the San Jose Sharks, Minnesota Wild, Montreal Canadiens, and Anaheim Ducks, in addition to another 291 games in the AHL.
After retiring, Staubitz went on to coach in the OHL, serving as an assistant then associate head coach for the Sarnia Sting.
“We are excited, not only to add the Director of Hockey Development position, but that we landed such a high-quality person and hockey mind like Brad,” Terrence Wallin, Mariners head coach & general manager, said. “His playing and coaching experience speak volumes, and he will help out in numerous areas on and off the ice.”
The addition of Staubitz follows other moves within the Mariners’ staff over the past several weeks. The club recently named Zach Tolkinen as the team’s new assistant coach, joining Wallin in his third season as head coach (fourth on staff). Video coach Cam Briere was promoted to director of hockey operations last week and enters his fifth season with the organization. Athletic trainer Pat Sponzo will enter his second season while equipment manager Brian McQueen enters his fourth. Goaltending coach Fred Quistgard and strength & conditioning coach Peter Clark, of Beyond Strength in Falmouth, ME will also remain on staff.
