Returning Fife Flyers coach Todd Dutiaume has urged patience from the fans on the signing front as he confirmed his return along with assistant coach Jeff Hutchins.
The duo will be back behind the bench to follow on from a campaign that saw them win the Gardiner Conference title and reach the PredictorBet Play-off finals weekend.
And Dutiaume, heading into his 21st season at the club, says last season was one he enjoyed the most.
“Last season was certainly my most enjoyable as a coach in the past seven years,” the Flyers coach said. “Winning helps, but having good people around you is a key component.
“It reignited that strong desire to continue to drive our club forward and build on the successes of this past campaign and I’m pleased to be working with Jeff again.
“He has become a good friend and his work rate is second to none. Together we hope to once again put together a team that our loyal support can identify with and get behind.
“Behind the scenes things have been busy and we have had an open line of communication with all personnel, but we ask for fans to remain patient and I hope to have exciting news soon.”
Hutchins returns for his third season as Dutiaume’s trusted deputy, continuing to combine his assistant coaching duties with that of Director of Player Development.
And he spoke of his friendship with a man who was once his opposing number during his days as coach of Dundee Stars between 2012 and 2015.
He added: “Firstly, I’m excited to be working with Todd again for the coming season. We’ve built a strong friendship and working relationship that makes it enjoyable to come to the rink.
“We’re focused and ready to push this great club to the next level after last year’s success.
“I had a lot of fun working with last season’s group and had an enjoyable campaign. I’ve turned my focus to what lies ahead and to the challenges it throws up.”
