What can Leaf fans look forward to this season? Let’s be honest, the past four seasons have been less than impressive. So far, the Toronto Maple Leafs have failed to qualify for the play-offs. However, with the rebuilding phase well underway, fans should expect to see something outstanding this year from head coach Ron Wilson.
Ron Wilson has one of the most impressive coaching careers in the game of hockey. Last season, Ron was able to achieve his 600th career win as a head coach in the NHL. With a total 619 NHL victories, he is well on his way to having the most victories as head coach in the NHL. There have only been six other coaches who reached this amazing mark.
The international hockey scene is no mystery to Ron Wilson. In 2010, Ron helped the United States hockey team captured the silver medal. Before this, he helped the 1996 US hockey team win gold medal at the World Cup of Hockey.
Ron Wilson was born in Windsor, Ontario on the 28th of May, 1955. Ron’s family moved to the States when Ron was 12, which is why Ron has dual citizenship. His ties to hockey are well established, both his father and his uncle were coaches of the Detroit Red Wings. As a young man, Ron was a member of the Maple Leafs and also played for team USA.
Behind the bench Ron brings his own style of coaching. One of the things that Ron expects from all of his players is accountability. No player is exempt from this. If you are not producing on the ice, you can expect to be sitting on the bench. This is something that has rarely been seen in Toronto, and has some fans questioning Ron’s methods.
One of the unique things that Ron brings to the team is his high tech approach to the game. Ron uses every available piece of equipment to give his team the edge. From computers to tablet PC on the bench, he can instantly outline new strategies during the game. Ron defiantly uses everything he can to get the win.
For those fans still in doubt, take a good look at the teams that Ron has been able to guide to the playoffs. In 1998, as head coach for the Washington Capitals, Ron was able to reach the cup final. He was the first coach for the expansion team, the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. With Ron at the reins this team was able to reach the conference final in a mere four years.
What can Toronto Maple Leaf fans look forward to this season? Over the summer the team has not been idle. One of the biggest changes will be behind the bench. Head coach Ron Wilson and general manager Brian Burke have enlisted the talents of Scott Gordon and Greg Cronin. These two new assistant coaches, coupled with Ron’s innovative leadership skills will make for an exciting season. The Toronto Maples Leafs are ready to hit the ice fighting and provide fans with the kind of season that will make them proud.
