The relationship has been mended. Shane Doan, perhaps the most recognizable Arizona Coyotes player of all-time, has rejoined the organization as Chief Hockey Development Officer. He will report directly to team president Xavier Gutierrez and serve as a strategic advisor to the owner Alex Meruelo and GM Bill Armstrong. Gutierrez released a short statement on the hire:
Shane Doan is a Coyotes legend and a Valley icon. For the past 25 years, Shane has been an incredible ambassador for our franchise and has represented the Coyotes with dignity and class. He is beloved by our fan base and we are thrilled to have him back with us where he belongs.
Doan, 44, actually started his career when the franchise was still known as the Winnipeg Jets, playing 74 games in the 1995-96 season before the move to the desert. He would spend his entire career with the organization, captaining the squad from 2003 to 2017, but his departure from the team was a little awkward and contentious. Regardless, he’s back with them now after spending the last three seasons with the league offices and should be a valuable asset for the organization.
Also co owner of the Kamloops Blazers, (where I grew up) and an icon for that franchise as well
I should know this living in Phoenix but I’m blanking…why was his departure akward again?
After playing his whole career there, the team just said they’re not offering him a contract. This is a frustrating article, as it could have put in a short reminder or simply a link to a previous story.
I honestly don’t remember that but, thanks for replying appreciate it!