Knoxville, TN - The Knoxville Ice Bears are pleased to announce that head coach Scott Hillman has signed a contract extension through 2011. Hillman became a first-year head coach when he joined the Ice Bears organization in September 2007. At that time, he signed a two year contract.
A native of Ontario, Canada, Hillman obtained a Master's Degree at the University of Texas Permian Basin, where he was also the highest scoring defenseman in the nation. Hillman went on to have a successful career with the Odessa Jackalopes of the Central Hockey League (CHL). He was the player/assistant coach for three years under the direction of Don McKee. During that time, he earned many other accolades, including 3-time team captain of the CHL All-Star team and the CHL Man of the Year for Community Involvement. Hillman worked as the President/Owner of Next Level Sports before moving to Knoxville.
Coach Hillman used his substantial hockey background to lead the Knoxville Ice Bears to a championship season. The team finished the 2007-2008 regular season in first place with a record of 32-16-4. The Ice Bears won the Southern Professional Hockey League's President's Cup on Sunday, April 13 after sweeping the Jacksonville Barracudas.
"I am excited to continue my tenure with the Knoxville Ice Bears. My family and I are very proud to be involved with such and outstanding organization, and we now think of Knoxville as our home. As far as the team is concerned, my goal for the future is to continue winning championships," commented coach Hillman.
Assistant head coach Marc Rodgers will also be returning next season.
"We are very happy the Hillman has agreed to stay with the team. He brings a level of professionalism and class that is indicative of the Knoxville Ice Bears brand, and I look forward to having him coach and continue to develop our players," said president and general manager Mike Murray.
