The Alberni Valley Bulldogs have extended the contracts of coaching duo Kevin Willison and assistant coach Adam Hayduk through the 2012-2013 season.
Willison joined the Bulldogs as head coach partway through this season following the departure of Paul Esdale. Hayduk has been with the team since September.
Bulldogs' president Andy Oakes said the move will bring some stability to the team both on and off the ice. "Since joining the team in early December, Kevin has improved the players' work ethic, discipline and production while continuously playing with an injury-riddled lineup," Oakes said in a press release issued late Friday afternoon.
Extending Hayduk's contract along with Willison's for the next year was an easy decision, Bulldogs director of hockey operations Rick Schievink said.
" Adam brings energy, enthusiasm and is a tremendous young coach with a lot to offer the organization, players and the community of Port Alberni," Schievink added.
The announcement was made just before the Bulldogs took to the ice for their final evening home game of the season, Friday (March 9) against the Cowichan Valley Capitals. The "Pack the Plex" game was a sellout with an attendance of 1,854, including minor hockey teams and Alberni Valley school spirit squads.
The Bulldogs lost the contest 9-4.