T-Birds Announce Change to Hockey Staff
August 5, 2021 - Western Hockey League (WHL)
Seattle Thunderbirds News Release
Kent, Wash. - The Seattle Thunderbirds are excited to announce the hiring of Matt Marquardt as the organization's new assistant coach, Brad Guzda as the new goalie coach and the promotion of Jared Crooks to assistant general manager.
Matt Marquardt joins the team as assistant coach to Matt O'Dette and Kyle Hagel. Marquardt's playing career included 3 seasons in the QMJHL, and another 13 years in professional hockey in the U.S., Germany, England, and Scotland.
"After an extensive search, it became obvious he was our guy", said La Forge. "He has enthusiasm for development and is a welcome addition to what we believe is a very strong staff."
Brad Guzda joins the Thunderbirds team as goalie coach. Guzda played 8 seasons of professional hockey and now works with young goalies in Nashville. He has worked with goaltenders at the Hockey Lab for over 9 years and is currently the Headmaster at Triple V Prep.
"Brad is an experienced goalie coach that has a tremendous grasp on the position from both a practical and technical perspective," said La Forge. "I am really excited for the goalies in our system to meet and develop with Brad."
Jared Crooks has been promoted to assistant general manager, working closely with general manager Bil La Forge. Crooks has spent the past three years as the organization's skills development and video coach as well as host family coordinator, player education adviser and team's travel & logistics director.
"I am very fortunate to work closely with Jared on a daily basis and look forward to doing so for the next few years," said La Forge. "He is instrumental in all aspects of the day-to-day activity with our hockey club."
Season Tickets for the 2021-22 season are currently on sale with the home opener scheduled for October 9, 2021 vs. Portland. Call (253) 239-7825 or visit seattlethunderbirds.com for more information.
• Discuss this story on the Western Hockey League message board...
Western Hockey League Stories from August 5, 2021
- T-Birds Announce Change to Hockey Staff - Seattle Thunderbirds
- Oil Kings Promote Three Area Scouts - Edmonton Oil Kings
- Mathew Ward Reflects on Hockey Canada Summer Development Camp - Swift Current Broncos
- Oil Kings Hire Michael Chan as Director of Scouting - Edmonton Oil Kings
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
