Recently, the Colorado Avalanche announced the hiring of veteran QMJHL and ECHL head coach Eric Veilleux (pronounced “VAY-you”) as head coach of the San Antonio Rampage. The announcement brings to an end months of speculation as to which direction the organization would go following the dismissal of Dean Chynoweth as head coach after a dismal season and consistent failure to develop “home-grown” talent for the NHL club.
Veilleaux is charged with developing the Avalanche prospects. Given the recent draft picks (which are “long-term” development projects) and ELC signings (many of which will spend some time in the AHL this upcoming season) his work will be crucial to the long-term success of the Avalanche as an organization.