The Kamloops Blazers & Tom Gaglardi have found their guy. They, along with the Blazers faithful are hoping Matt Bardsley is the GM to reunite the franchise with the Ed Chynoweth Cup.
Bardsley had been working with the Portland Winterhawks since 1999. Starting as a scout, and working his way up to the Assistant GM’s chair. While in Portland, the 46 year old helped draft players like Brad Ross and Ty Rattie, along with many others. He was an integral part of many trades that took place, including the move that saw the Winterhawks bring in Matt Dumba on route to a WHL Championship. For the past 3 seasons Bardsley has also been working as a Scout for the NHL’s Chicago Blackhawks.
During his time with the Winterhawks, Bardsley has been part of 3 US division championships with 4 appearances in the league final, and 1 WHL Championship. While he was assistant GM with Portland the team’s record was 215-117-12-16.
Bardsley’s first order of business will be to hire a coaching staff and replace Matt Rechi with a new Director of Player Personnel.
Bardsley was introduced Friday by Blazer Alumni Shane Doan. The new GM made it clear that he was ready to make Kamloops a successful organization again, “I’m very honoured to be a Kamloops Blazer.”
On Radio NL talking about the plethora of media at the press conference, “It’s very exciting, I appreciate the support.” Bardsley continued “It’s going to be a challenge, but i’m looking forward to it.
The Blazers prospect camp goes this weekend at Brock Arena.
