Düsseldorf welcomes fresh trainer and appointed managing director at DEG
New Coach for DEG: Rich Chernomaz Takes the Helm
Rich Chernomaz, a 61-year-old Canadian with extensive experience in German ice hockey, has been appointed as the new head coach for Düsseldorf's DEG for the upcoming season in the second league. The announcement comes after Chernomaz signed a contract with DEG until 2027.
Chernomaz's appointment was a strategic move by the club's co-managing directors, Andreas Niederberger and Rick Amann. In a transitional period following DEG's relegation to the DEL2, the duo emphasized the importance of securing an experienced head coach, highlighting Chernomaz's extensive background in German ice hockey.
Chernomaz has trained teams in various constellations and under different conditions, making him well-equipped to lead DEG through the challenges ahead. His coaching history in Germany is primarily associated with DEG, where he has been an active member of the coaching team. While detailed records of his previous coaching positions in German leagues before DEG are not readily available, the context suggests a continuing and significant role within the German ice hockey coaching community.
Before his coaching career, Chernomaz was a professional ice hockey player, spending time in European leagues, particularly in Swiss and German leagues until 1999. This background likely supported his transition into coaching roles within Germany.
The composition of the DEG squad for the next season will not be straightforward. Amann has emphasized that in the search for players, they do not solely rely on statistics but also consider the players' character and hockey heart. As of the current date, there are no contracts with any players, as negotiations are ongoing.
Chernomaz's task will include building the new DEG squad for the next season and developing a new team dynamic. Rick Amann added that this phase presents an opportunity to stabilize DEG in terms of sports, organization, and finances.
DEG fans can look forward to Rich Chernomaz as their new head coach. With many professionals expected to be interested in playing for DEG in Düsseldorf, the upcoming season promises to be an exciting one.
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