Dallas Thompson Appointed as Cougars GM

News 2003-04

Dallas Thompson Appointed as Cougars GM

Dallas Thompson, current Assistant General Manager for the Prince George Cougars, has been named as the club’s new General Manager, effective May 1, 2004. Thompson will succeed Daryl (“Lubi”) Lubiniecki, who will step down as GM for the “Cats”.

Lubiniecki, who now becomes the Cougars Director of Hockey Operations, will retire from GM duties. “Lubi”, the former WHL Coach (‘82-‘83) and Executive (‘91-‘92) of the Year, spent 17 years with the Saskatoon Blades serving as Head Coach and General Manager for the Blades. Prior to signing on with the Cougars as General Manager in May of 1998, Lubiniecki was named as a scouting consultant for the organization in his native Saskatchewan.

“Due largely in part to some health issues, I felt that it was in the best interest of the club to step down. I think this is a great move for the organization as Dallas will bring the youth and energy that is needed to be successful at this type of position”, states Lubiniecki via phone in Saskatoon. “Living in Saskatoon, I feel that this is a much better situation for me. I will be able to keep tabs on our listed players while still being able to evaluate potential talent. My hearing might not be what it was in the past, but my eyesight is still good”, laughs the 62 year old “Lubi”.

Thompson, 30, joined the Cougars as their Assistant Coach in 1998, which he served until 2000. Upon completion of the 2000 season, he was appointed as the club’s Assistant General Manager, and has held that position to date. Thompson, who has twice filled interim head coaching positions for the “Cats”, is eager to start getting things ready for the fall.

“The past 3 years with ‘Lubi’ have provided me with the knowledge and experience necessary to take this step forward. I look forward to continuing our working relationship for many years to come”, states Cougars new GM, Dallas Thompson. “I am happy and excited to take this organization to the next level. I am extremely comfortable with our coaching staff and feel we have a great nucleus for the future”, continues Thompson.

Cougars President Rick Brodsky sees no better situation for the future of the franchise. “We are not anticipating too many changes. We have relied on ‘Lubi’ over the years and will continue counting on him for his contributions. He has been a great hockey figure over the years, but, at the same time, recognize that we need to make changes for the organization. This is a young man’s game, and we definitely have the individual needed to get to the next level”, says Brodsky.

Dallas Thompson and Rick Brodsky will be available for media inquires May 3 @ 1:30pm at the Cougars Office. For any other information, please contact the Cougars office at 561-0783.