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Legwand takes role as Sting's president of hockey operations

Sarnia Sting co-owner David Legwand stepped down as associate coach Thursday to become the team’s president of hockey operations.

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David Legwand is leaving the Sarnia Sting’s bench for a new role in the front office.

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The team’s co-owner stepped down as associate coach Thursday to become their president of hockey operations.

Legwand will be a “huge asset” with his experience and connections, general manager Dylan Seca said.

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“He played in the NHL for a long time and has got a lot of contacts at the National Hockey League level,” Seca said, “so when it comes to recruiting or we’re talking about contacts with the NHL, whether that be for player trades or import draft or whatever, I think he’s just a good resource for us.”

Legwand played 16 NHL seasons, most with the Nashville Predators, before retiring in 2016. He also played with Detroit, Ottawa and Buffalo.

The first draft pick in Predators history, he had 228 goals and 390 assists in 1,136 regular-season games.

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Legwand, 39, bought the Sting in January 2015 with Derian Hatcher. He joined the coaching staff in the 2017-18 season.

“Coaching these past three seasons has been a great experience and I would like to thank everyone involved, providing me the opportunity to work directly on the ice with some very talented and character young men,” Legwand said in a statement. “I look forward to continuing to work with our entire organization and growing this program in my new role.”

Legwand’s position is a new one in the Sting’s front office.

“He’ll just be involved and making our hockey team better,” Seca said. “I think it’s a good thing, honestly. It’s good to have people that are knowledgeable and passionate. We’ll be working together to bring the best product to Sarnia.”

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Seca confirmed Hatcher will return as head coach.

“I would also like to take a moment to thank David for his partnership and support behind the bench these past few seasons,” Hatcher said in a statement. “We are very excited about the potential this current team has and look forward as we continue to pursue our goal of bringing a championship to Sarnia.”

Assistant coach Brad Staubitz, goaltending coach Franky Palazzese and assistant general manager Mark Glavin remain in their roles.

The Sting will look for one coach to replace Legwand but are open to hiring two.

“It’s a matter of finding the right person,” Seca said. “If it’s one person, great. If it’s two, that’s fine. We’re not ruling anything out.

“We’re wanting to see who’s out there and who’s a good fit. A person has to have their foundation in player development, needs to be obviously confident … and obviously communication is huge.”

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Legwand’s move is the latest for the Sting in the off-season. General manager Nick Sinclair resigned in April and was quickly replaced by Seca, who had been their director of player personnel.

“It’s an exciting thing,” Seca said. “Change is good. Truthfully, there’s been a lot of reflection over the course of the season, and since I’ve been involved we’ve had some really healthy discussion. It’s a matter of knowing that everyone’s got to help the team get better.

“This is just one part of it. Dave is busy in other things, but he wants to help on the other side. He’s going to be a huge asset for us.

“Derian’s ready to go. They’re excited for this change, too, in a good way. I’m a fan. I think it’s a real positive thing.”

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