New Coach for Melbourne Ice

---

Melbourne Ice club president Emma Poynton made the announcement on Friday, February 8, that the team’s head coach position had been finally filled by Sandy Gardner.

“Melbourne Ice is delighted to announce Sandy Gardner as the 2013 head coach,” Ms Poynton said.

“Sandy has an extensive history with Melbourne Ice as he has been involved with the team’s coaching staff throughout the club’s 10 year history. Sandy was the club’s second head coach and now returns as the fifth head coach of Melbourne Ice.”

Mr Gardner takes over from retiring head coach Paul “Jaffa” Watson who led the team to three consecutive Goodall Cup wins from 2010 to 2012.

“Sandy was identified as the best coach as he has been in and around the club for many years,” Ms Poynton said. “He was in a coaching partnership with the recently retired Melbourne Ice coach… so he knows the system and how to make the boys perform and lift when under game pressures.”

Ms Poynton said a strong and desirable feature about his appointment is his familiarity with the club and team.

“Logistically he knows how Melbourne Ice functions as a club which is added value, we don’t need to train someone up from the beginning,” she said.

“Sandy has a history of playing at all levels from recreational summer hockey right through to the Australian team and this expertise can be handed onto our Melbourne Ice players. His knowledge of the game and sport is exceptional.”

Mr Gardner has been involved with ice hockey in Australia since he was a young boy, playing his first game on the Australian men’s national team when he was 16.

“[He] has held a spot on the Australian men’s national squad for close to 20 teams and held the record for the most number of national team games,” Ms Poynton said. “Following his playing career with the national team he became their assistant coach.”

Mr Gardner’s name appears on the Goodall Cup 14 times - more times than any other player.

“When not coaching Sandy still plays ice hockey in the IHV summer competition with the Marauders whose vintage talent currently hold top spot in the league standings,” Ms Poynton said.

The Melbourne Ice is now working with Mr Gardner to fill his old position as assistant coach.

Prospective candidates should forward their applications or inquiries to Emma Poynton at president@melbourneice.com.au orphone 0402 460 500.