Minard Named Pirates Goaltending/Video Coach

Published on August 22, 2011 under American Hockey League (AHL)
Portland Pirates News Release


Portland, ME - The Phoenix Coyotes of the National Hockey League in conjunction with their AHL affiliate, the Portland Pirates, announced today that Mike Minard has been named the Pirates' new goaltending/video coach.

"The addition of Mike Minard to our coaching staff here in Portland is ideal for the further development of our young goaltenders," said Pirates head coach Ray Edwards. "Having known Mike since childhood and watching his career transpire over the years, I became well aware of how hard of a worker he is and our long-standing relationship will only help the overall chemistry of the team and staff here in Portland. He played the goaltender position at a high level and will be a positive mentor for our players in their athletic and personal growth."

In his second year of professional coaching after acting as the Video Coach for the AHL's Hamilton Bulldogs during the 2010-2011 season, Minard brings a wealth of knowledge after 12 seasons of goaltending in the professional ranks. The 34-year old native of Owen Sound, Ontario was originally drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in the fourth round (83rd overall) of the 1995 NHL Entry Draft, and was in the Oilers system from 1996-2000. His NHL debut came on April 8, 2000 against the Calgary Flames where he stopped 33 shots en route to earning the victory. Following the 1999-2000 season, Minard joined the Toronto Maple Leafs organization where he competed in 96 games from 2000-2002 and 2003-2004 for their AHL affiliate, the St. John's Maple Leafs.

"We are delighted to have Mike Minard as an addition to our coaching staff here in Portland," said Pirates Managing Owner/CEO Brian Petrovek. "His extensive professional career and notable achievements as a player and role model in the community makes him an ideal fit. Our young goaltending corps will have a stand out mentor and teacher to guide them in their quest towards the National Hockey League."

A two-time recipient of the Yanick Dupre Memorial Award (1999-2000, 2000-2001) for outstanding community service, Minard played in a total of 141 AHL games with the Hamilton Bulldogs (1996-2000), St. John's Maple Leafs, and Manitoba Moose (2002-2003). Following his 12-year professional career in which he additionally played in the ECHL, CHL, and overseas in Northern Island, Minard became a Senior Instructor at the Grainger/Minard Steel City Hockey Goaltending School in Hamilton, Ontario. Minard's younger brother, Chris, currently plays in the Detroit Red Wings organization, registering 35 points in 79 games for the AHL's Grand Rapids Griffins in the 2010-2011 season.

"I am very excited to have received this opportunity to begin my professional coaching career for a great organization - the Phoenix Coyotes," Minard said. "The decision was made with ease due to my friendships with Ray Edwards who is a long-time friend of the family, and John Slaney who I played against throughout my career. Having the responsibility of working with Sean Burke (Phoenix goaltending coach) and our young goaltending talent is a perfect scenario to help bring success to the franchises of both Phoenix and Portland."

The Pirates will open their 19th season of competition on the road against the Bridgeport Sound Tigers on Saturday, October 8th at 7 p.m. The high-flying action will open at home for the 35th season of AHL action at the Cumberland County Civic Center, on Saturday, October 15th when the Manchester Monarchs visit in a 7 p.m. start, featuring a JobsinME.com Magnetic Schedule giveaway. All 38 home games will be played at the Civic Center, with 27 weekend games. Saturday Night is Hockey Night in Portland will take place 14 times during the course of the season while the Pirates will also play nine Friday games and four Sunday games.

Now is the time to cash in on great savings by purchasing discounted ticket plans and advance tickets for the Pirates 2011-12 season. Ticket packages are available to meet all budgets and schedules. Season Tickets are now on sale with great seats still available for the 2011-2012 season. For the first time ever, Full Season Ticket Holders will receive a commemorative Season Ticket Holder Jersey from the Portland Pirates. To become a new Full Season Ticket Holder, or to upgrade your 20 or 12-game plan to a Full Season Ticket plan, contact the Pirates' Ticket Department at 207.282.4665 ext. 350.

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