(Graphic courtesy/Humboldt Broncos)

By Ben Tompkins

New coach needed

Broncos’ Barney moving up to OHL

Jun 28, 2024 | 10:00 AM

Humboldt Broncos head coach and general manager Scott Barney is moving up the hockey ranks.

Announced by the SJHL organization on Thursday, Barney will be heading to major junior to coach the Ontario Hockey League’s Sudbury Wolves.

Barney spent six seasons with Humboldt, beginning as an assistant coach in 2018. He was then promoted to interim head coach during the 2018-19 campaign, following a change midway through the year.

“When I took on this role, I knew coming in it would be a challenge, not only from a hockey perspective but from a community that was in mourning. I quickly found out that this community is solidified in its strength, overcoming nature, and commitment to each other, and we wanted a team that would reflect that and give that same effort back,” said Barney.

“It’s been an honour working with all of the amazing players that have come through the Broncos’ dressing room door. It’s my privilege to develop, mentor and move them on to the next level of hockey and life, but they give back to me too. I know I’ve learned and can attribute a ton of who I am as a coach because of them.”

Riderville

Click Click Boom - Riders Make the Playoffs Interesting

2h ago

Ground the Wings

Hawks host Weyburn Wednesday

2h ago

Melfort fall cleanup week

Melfort fall cleanup week starts Monday

4h ago

Barney finished that season with a 14-6-1 record, effectively removing the interim tag and making him the club’s new permanent coach and GM.

In his time with the Broncos, Barney has helped lead the team to six straight playoff appearances, which have included two division titles.

The organization described him in their press release as ‘one of the top coaches throughout the Canadian Junior Hockey landscape in both performance and in developing players to post-secondary commitments.’

“The Humboldt Broncos’ organization are blessed to have had Scott and his entire family as a part of our Bronco family and the community of Humboldt. His passion for the Broncos is undeniable, not only bringing a competitive team every year but also showing so much loyalty to the organization,” explained Broncos President, Amanda Schlachter.

“There are not enough words to thank Scott for his time and dedication towards the team, and we wish him nothing but the absolute best on his and his family’s next journey… nothing can take away the Green and Gold of Humboldt that has been embedded in their hearts.”

During Barney’s entire tenure, the group had a record of 169-71-15.

More than 40 players also committed to post-secondary, including 12 to the NCAA Division I ranks.

“Over the past six years, there have been expected changes in almost every aspect of the organization. Changes that have included turnover of board members, countless new players, personnel and staff, and even new jersey designs and bleacher seats; one thing that remained constant was Barney and his unwavering criteria of what it took to be a Bronco,” the team stated.

“Coach Barney has attained a remarkable status in the hearts of the Bronco’s, as his achievements define what a coach truly is; never determined by the wins or losses, but instead to lead with integrity, leaving a positive legacy in the hearts of the Humboldt hockey community.”

With the move to Sudbury, Barney and his family will be returning to their home province of Ontario.

“Thank you to everyone. There are so many people that have been instrumental in my time here who have been a part of the team in any capacity, or a part of the community cheering on the Broncos. The Broncos’ past, present, and future will always have a special place in my and my family’s hearts.”

Humboldt has now posted Barney’s former position, as they search for a candidate with various great qualities and attributes

–

news@northeastnow.com

On X @BenTompkins_8