By Yegor Glebov
The national squad of Belarus has acquired a new head coach this month, following a decision by the Belarusian Hockey Federation. Canadian Glen Hanlon is to return in his former role, having agreed to the terms of contract offered. From July 1st, he’ll be under a two year contract, with the option of extending for a third under the same terms.
Mr. Hanlon headed the national hockey team at the World Championships in 2005, 2006 and 2009, twice helping the squad reach the play-offs (2006 and 2009). The 2006 event, hosted by Riga, saw the best result to date, with the squad coming sixth. The Belarusian national team played 32 matches under Mr. Hanlon’s leadership, gaining 14 victories and 3 draws, as well as 15 defeats. The position of head coach fell vacant on May 30th; the Belarusian Hockey Federation decided not to extend Andrey Skabelka’s contract, having seen the national squad fail to play well at the World Championship this year, under his guidance.
Mr. Hanlon has already presented a training programme for the Belarusian national team, in readiness for the 2014 IIHF World Championship, being hosted by Minsk. In addition, he’ll be overseeing national training for junior hockey countrywide.
Mr. Hanlon should arrive in Minsk in late July-early August, after the final approval of the national programme for the 2013/14 season.
