The Drayton Valley Thunder Board of Directors regretfully announce the resignation of General Manager and Head Coach Fran Gow. Fran and Sherri Gow will be relocating to Edmonton, Alberta where Sherri is pursuing a business opportunity that requires the Gow family to leave Drayton Valley.
“The decision to leave Drayton Valley was not an easy choice, but a successful Thunder hockey program cannot be run from a distance,” stated Fran Gow. “We look forward to this new opportunity in our lives and we are grateful for the last four years with the Thunder organization.”
The Drayton Valley Thunder organization is optimistic about the future of its franchise after two consecutive playoff berths in the last two seasons, and post-secondary commitments by eight players in that same time frame. “The Thunder organization appreciates all that Fran has done over the past four years,” stated Thunder President Scott Carter. “Fran was a big part in keeping our team in Drayton Valley and he will be missed by the community and the team. We would like to wish Fran and Sherri the best of luck with their future endeavors.”
However, it is with great pleasure that we announce, Associate Coach/ Assistant General Manager, Mike Mueller will take the reins as the new Head Coach and General Manager. His experience and knowledge will be a huge asset to this team. Before Mike joined the Thunder team in 2009, he coached at both the Bantam and Midget AAA level. Mike also represented Team Pacific as an assistant coach in 2012 Under 17 World Championships. He coached with Hockey Alberta at the Alberta Cup and has worked in Europe with professional teams in the off season. Along with all his hockey accomplishments Mike also has an MBA in business.
Mike has committed to a 3 year contract with the Drayton Valley Thunder and is ready and willing to take on the task.