The Lynn family’s long association with the junior game continues with Chris Lynn being named the new head coach of the Victoria Cougars of the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League.
Although the connections go back a long way, don’t expect an old-school approach as the Cougars look to maintain their powerhouse status in the 11-team VIJHL, which boasts an alumni list which includes current and former NHLers Jamie and Jordie Benn, Adam Cracknell, Matt Irwin, Ryan O’Byrne, and numerous eventual WHL/BCHL juniors, NCAA collegians and AHL/ECHL pros.
“I believe in high tempo hockey and communication on the ice. That’s the modern game,” said Lynn.
Lynn, 52, coached the old Victoria Warriors in the B.C. Hockey League and Fort St. John Huskies of the Rocky Mountain Junior League. He also played in the BCHL for the Cowichan Valley Capitals and the defunct Juan de Fuca Whalers.
Chris’ dad, Bob Lynn, was former owner of the Warriors and Capitals of the BCHL and the eldest Lynn is still involved in the game as the play-by-play broadcaster of the Westshore Wolves of the VIJHL.
The next generation is represented by Chris’ son and Bob’s grandson, Brady Lynn, who came out the Nanaimo Clippers and Cowichan Valley of the BCHL and is now playing in U Sports for Nipissing University.
“Our primary focus in the VIJHL should be to move players up to Junior A leagues [such as the BCHL], which is the gateway to the NCAA,” said Chris Lynn.
Lynn replaces former Cougars head coach and former Cougars playing star Brody Coulter, who is stepping down after a long association with the club.
Joining Lynn as his assistant coach will be Cam LeSergent, who was an assistant coach with the Cougars last season and played two seasons with the Cougars, as captain during his final year. Also as an assistant coach will be Tate Coughlin, who has played in the VIJHL, WHL, AJHL, BCHL and U Sports, the latter with the University of Regina Cougars. Tyson Slater, who has played in the VIJHL and the BCHL, will also join the Cougars staff as assistant coach.
