Castlegar’s favourite hockey success story has added another chapter — Travis Green has been named as the new head coach for the Vancouver Canucks.
“This job is also very special to me because it is in Vancouver, B.C. When people ask me where I’m from, I’m proud to say British Columbia,” said Green at the Canucks press conference introducing him as the new head coach Wednesday morning. “I remember growing up in Castlegar, watching Hockey Night in Canada, playing road hockey, cheering for the Canucks — it brings back a lot of great memories. My parents still live in Castlegar. … So, to coach in this province — it matters to me.”
“I’m obviously excited and appreciative of the opportunity for several reasons,” added Green. “The are only 31 of these jobs and to work in the league is every coach’s dream. I know I haven’t coached in this league, but I know I am ready and prepared for the task at hand …”
Green, who is now 46, has enjoyed a long hockey career. He started out playing for the WHL Spokane Chiefs in 1986 before a short stint with the Medicine Hat Tigers, finishing off his junior career. In 1989 he was drafted 23rd overall in the NHL entry draft by the New York Islanders. He spent several years playing with the AHL Capital District Islanders before moving up to the NHL with the New York Islanders.
Green went on to play 14 NHL seasons. In addition to the Islanders, he played with the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, the Phoenix Coyotes, the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Boston Bruins.
After he wrapped up his playing days, Green moved on to coaching, working for the Portland Winterhawks where he led them to a WHL championship. He has spent the last four seasons coaching the Canucks’ American Hockey League affiliate the Utica Comets who reached the Calder Cup Playoffs twice under his leadership.
The Canucks were obviously impressed with what they saw, because they acknowledged during the press conference introducing Green that they had not interviewed anyone else for the job.
“Travis Green has played a key role in the development of our young players over the past four seasons as head coach of the Utica Comets,” said Canucks general manager Jim Benning. “He knows the players, he’s familiar with our organization and he is ready to be a coach at the NHL level. Travis is wired to win and we are confident in his ability to help build our team and develop a winning culture.”