Daum takes over as Falcons' coach |
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Head Coach Rob Daum
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By Katelyn Gendron
Reminder Assistant Editor
SPRINGFIELD The Falcons' new head coach Rob Daum believes that a team's success cannot be measured in wins and losses.
During an interview with Reminder Publications, the former Edmonton Oilers assistant coach and scout explained that he believes in measuring this team -- currently in last place in the Eastern Conference -- by how well they bounce back from their losing record.
"The players have not given up," he said, adding that there are still 26 games left in the season. "For them, this is a fresh start [with a new coach]."
Last week, the Falcons' National Hockey League affiliate, the Edmonton Oilers, axed head coach Jeff Truitt after posting a 16-27-7 record, but chose to retain assistant coaches David Bell and Gerry Fleming.
"The Oilers organization would like to thank Jeff for his commitment and effort," Oilers General Manager Steve Tambellini, said. "Jeff's an outstanding individual who worked hard everyday to improve his hockey club."
Daum explained that his expectations for the remainder of the season are to improve each player's on-ice performance, therefore spawning better overall team play.
"Nobody is pleased with the way that things have gone [up] to this point," he said. "I'm gonna do whatever I can to make these last couple of months as positive as I can for everybody involved with the team."
Falcons General Manager Bruce Landon explained that in spite of the team's record, fan attendance has increased 26 percent over last year.
"Nobody is more disappointed than me," he said of the team's record. "Hopefully the team can get out of this losing streak."
Landon noted that he does not have control over the on-ice product but that he and his staff remain dedicated to "making the games fun, enjoyable and entertaining for fans."
He explained that the front office is working diligently on group sales, pricing and packaging for the remaining home games as well as promotions for next season.
When asked if owners are again contemplating selling the franchise, Landon said, "It's full steam ahead for next year." He added that next season's game jerseys have been ordered and game dates have been submitted to the American Hockey League.
Landon explained that he is still as committed as ever to keeping hockey alive in Springfield.
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