Brett Sutter, formerly an assistant with the Calgary Flames‘ AHL affiliate, was named the third head coach in franchise history on Friday.
“I am excited about the upcoming season and taking the next step in my coaching career,” said Sutter in a statement released by the team. “This is an organization that I am very familiar with, having history as both a player and coach. Having spent a lot of time at this level, I understand the role in developing players and have firsthand knowledge of what a great group we have here to work with. I can’t wait to get started.”
Sutter moved into coaching last year after a seven-year NHL career that began in Calgary. The Flames drafted the winger in the sixth round (179th overall) in the 2005 draft.
The now 38-year-old spent three seasons in Calgary before stints with the Carolina Hurricanes (four seasons) and Minnesota Wild (one season).
His playing career spanned 1,090 AHL appearances (fourth-most all-time) and 60 games in the NHL.
“We feel that Brett is the right coach to continue working with our young players, and we are excited to be able to have him guide their development,” said Flames vice president/assistant general manager and Wranglers general manager Brad Pascall. “Brett’s knowledge of our players, years of experience at this level and familiarity with our organization made this a great fit for both sides.”
