The Nelson Leafs hockey squad are looking for a new coach — again.
Matt Hughes, who was hired by the Leafs in May, has resigned without coaching a single game.
According to Leafs marketing and PR director Michelle MacLean, Hughes resigned from the club as of Saturday.
“He resigned to pursue further career opportunities with Pursuit of Excellence (Hockey Academy) in the Okanagan in the directorial position,” she said.
The Leafs’ board of directors will be reviewing the other 28 applications it received for the job in the spring. They hope to have a coach in place as soon as possible.
The Kootenay International Junior Hockey League exhibition season begins in 36 days.
“Training camp will go ahead, with hopes that we have a coach in place,” explained MacLean.
The departing coach had not yet worked with any of the Leafs’ players, who MacLean said should not be impacted by the sudden change.
Hughes was hired to replace Frank Maida, who resigned at the end of the season due to family and work commitments. Maida served as head coach for three years and assistant coach for five.
The Leafs hosted the Cyclone Taylor Cup last season.