Moncton Revives Ted Nolan’s Coaching Career
Ted Nolan’s coaching career saw a remarkable revival, thanks to an unexpected call from Robert Irving, the owner of the Moncton Wildcats. After years away from the ice, Nolan faced uncertainty about his future in hockey. His previous tenure as a celebrated coach, including winning NHL Coach of the Year in 1997 and leading the Soo Greyhounds to a Memorial Cup, felt like a distant memory.
Turning Point: A Fresh Opportunity
Nolan had nearly given up hope of a coaching role when the phone finally rang. Initially, he doubted it was even regarding him. However, after a brief conversation with Irving, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. Confirming his decision, he told his wife they would be relocating to Moncton.
Building a Competitive Team
Upon taking the position with the Wildcats, Nolan faced the challenge of adjusting after an eight-year absence from major junior coaching. He prepared his team for a rocky start but was pleasantly surprised as they quickly found their rhythm. The Wildcats kicked off the season with a notable 9-1 record, buoyed by enthusiastic local support.
Key players on the roster included:
- Keith Yandle, an American defenseman who chose Moncton over NCAA options.
- Brad Marchand, a dynamic sophomore ready to showcase his talent.
Under Nolan’s leadership, the Wildcats finished the season with a league-best record of 107 points, surpassing even the formidable Quebec Remparts, led by Patrick Roy.
Success in the QMJHL
The Wildcats’ impressive performance led them to the league finals, where they faced the Remparts. In a hard-fought series, Moncton triumphed over Quebec to clinch the President’s Cup, marking a historic achievement as only the second team from the Maritimes to do so.
Memorable Memorial Cup Journey
As the host city for the Memorial Cup in 2006, Moncton aimed for glory. They reached the finals after defeating the WHL champion Vancouver Giants. However, the final showdown against the Quebec Remparts resulted in a 6-2 defeat, despite a strong tournament showing.
Reflecting on the Experience
Nolan, who has participated in multiple Memorial Cups, understands the event’s unpredictable nature. Looking back, he notes that winning a league championship holds a different kind of credibility compared to the prestige of the Memorial Cup. He expressed belief that a more experienced Marchand could have made a difference in their championship chances.
A New Chapter in the NHL
After the success in Moncton, a call from the New York Islanders led Nolan back to the NHL. He coached the Islanders for two seasons and returned to Buffalo later, further solidifying his career in top-tier hockey. His accomplishments also included leading the Latvian national team during the 2014 Winter Olympics.
A Lasting Impact
Nolan’s journey culminated in receiving the Order of Sport from Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame. Reflecting on his return to coaching, he credits Moncton for reigniting his passion for the game. The connection with Irving played a crucial role in this revival.
Overall, Ted Nolan’s experience with the Moncton Wildcats not only reshaped his career but also inspired many, proving that fresh beginnings can lead to lasting achievements.
