Scott Arniel thinks that overcoming the toughest time in his coaching career will help him achieve bigger goals with the Winnipeg Jets.
Arniel became the new head coach of the Jets, 12 years after he was fired by the Columbus Blue Jackets.
“One of the hardest times for me in coaching — probably in hockey — was when I got fired in Columbus,” Arniel shared during a media event at Canada Life Centre. “It took a long time to get over it. Whether it was anger or doubt, it took a while. I was not in a good mood.”
Arniel, aged 61, wasn’t sure if he’d ever get another chance. “For 12 years, I’ve been wondering if I’d ever get a second chance,” he admitted.
“There are some great coaches in our league right now who have had second and even third chances and are doing really well. I believe I’ve learned a lot over these past few years that will help me move forward.”
Arniel, who served as the associate coach in Winnipeg for the last two seasons, takes over from Rick Bowness, who retired.
He has come full circle since being drafted by the Jets in 1981, playing for the team for five years before returning to coach.
Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff believed Arniel was the right choice after interviewing only two other candidates.
“He’s here today because he’s earned it,” Cheveldayoff said, praising Arniel’s communication with players and his handling of the team under pressure. “You’re going to build upon something that the foundation has been laid.”
