The Abbotsford Heat rounded out their coaching staff on Thursday, hiring Luke Strand as an assistant coach.
Strand, born in Angeles City, Philippines, spent two seasons with current Heat head coach Ward on the Houston Aeros staff (2007-09), and served as head coach of the USHL’s Sioux City Musketeers the past two years.
“I had the opportunity to work alongside Luke for two seasons in Houston and I am happy we are getting the chance to coach together again," Ward said. "He is an amazing teacher and will be a tremendous help in developing our young players."
Strand joins fellow assistant Cail MacLean and goalie coach Jordan Sigalet on the Heat staff. MacLean, the former bench boss with the ECHL's South Carolina Stingrays, came on board last month, while Sigalet's hiring was announced Wednesday.