Firebirds’ Dan Bylsma officially introduced as Seattle Kraken head coach
Dan Bylsma is officially back in the NHL.
After we reported Bylsma would be the next head coach for the Seattle Kraken on Monday, the 53-year-old was formally introduced in Seattle on Tuesday.
"I think coaching in the National Hockey League is an extreme honor and privilege, and it’s a partnership with the organization and the GM," Bylsma said, directing his statement to Kraken general manager Ron Francis. "And I think over the last three years, I'm truly honored that you think I'm the guy to do that for you and your team, so I thank you for that."
He is the second head coach in Kraken history, replacing Dave Hakstol who was fired after three seasons.
A new era of #SeaKraken hockey 🦑 pic.twitter.com/6OKFOeDmOD
— Seattle Kraken (@SeattleKraken) May 28, 2024
Bylsma's promotion within the NHL's 32nd franchise comes after a short but successful stint in our desert, leading the Coachella Valley Firebirds.
"What we've built in Coachella Valley with the community, the fans, and the team is a large part for me being here today." @SeattleKraken new head coach Dan Bylsma. @KESQ @KenjiitoKESQ @AcrisureArena @AHLPR @FPC_AHL @Qassignmentdesk @Tarp1969 @SeattleKrakenPR @CValleyAHL_Fanz pic.twitter.com/qHzTloo2Xi
— Blake Arthur (@BlakeArthur24) May 28, 2024
In two seasons with the Firebirds, Bylsma went 94-32-18 in the regular season and reached the Calder Cup Finals in the team's inaugural year.
Bylsma said he believes his time in Coachella Valley will give him an advantage when he returns to the NHL next season.
"I have a familiarity with a lot of the players and staff here and think we have a chance to build something special together," he said. "I'd like to thank everyone with the Coachella Valley Firebirds for welcoming my wife and me with open arms, and I'd like to thank [owner] Samantha Holloway and the entire Kraken ownership group, as well as Ron Francis, for trusting me with this opportunity."
The Firebirds are currently in the Western Conference Finals against the Milwaukee Admirals. Game 1 will be played Wednesday at Acrisure Arena.
Post-practice reaction from Firebirds players and president of hockey operations Troy Bodie on Dan Bylsma being named head coach of @SeattleKraken. @KESQ @TheAHL @AHLPR @FPC_AHL @NHL @CValleyAHL_Fanz @pwilliamsAHL @NHLNetwork @Buccigross @AcrisureArena @KenjiitoKESQ pic.twitter.com/EzQej3jzle
— Blake Arthur (@BlakeArthur24) May 28, 2024
Bylsma is believed to stay on as head coach of the Firebirds through the end of the season as team continues their quest for the Calder Cup.
"I'm a pretty present and focused individual for the now, in the moment," Bylsma said. “For [Coachella Valley], for the players, it's all about right now and this moment."
“Coach Bylsma has been an important part of the foundation of the Firebirds, and we are thrilled to see him move into this role with the Seattle Kraken,” John Page, Senior Vice President, Oak View Group, Coachella Valley Firebirds, and Acrisure Arena said. “His legacy and impact will continue to be felt here in the Coachella Valley with our players, coaches, and organization. We look forward to continuing our run in the 2024 Calder Cup Playoffs under his direction knowing that it will have even more meaning to the organization, the players, and the fans.”
Bodie when asked about the next head coach of the Firebirds here in Coachella Valley. @KESQ pic.twitter.com/maNogOQJM6
— Blake Arthur (@BlakeArthur24) May 28, 2024
Stay with KESQ News Channel 3 for continuing coverage of Coachella Valley Firebirds hockey.
